Last Updated: February 2026
Virginia requires most charitable organizations to register before soliciting contributions from residents. The state maintains an established registration and annual reporting framework administered through the Office of Charitable and Regulatory Programs.
Managing registrations across multiple jurisdictions? Contact us
Explore all charitable solicitation registration requirements by state
At-a-Glance Overview
Primary Regulator
Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) — Office of Charitable and Regulatory Programs
Initial Registration Required
Yes, prior to soliciting contributions in Virginia unless an exemption applies.
Registration Term
Typically valid for one year.
Annual Renewal Required
Yes.
Annual Financial Reporting
Required with renewal.
Estimated Processing Time
Often several weeks depending on application completeness and financial documentation.
Who Must Register
Organizations generally must register if they:
- Are located in Virginia and request charitable contributions
- Solicit donations from Virginia residents through mail, online, events, or other outreach
- Engage outside fundraising professionals or have solicitations conducted on their behalf
Out-of-state nonprofits that fundraise into Virginia must also register before solicitation activity begins.
Virginia’s regulatory framework governing charitable solicitations is outlined in state law administered through VDACS. nonprofitfundraisingregistratio…
Initial Registration Process
Filing Method
Initial registration can typically be completed:
- Online through the state’s charitable organization portal
- Or by submitting the required registration forms and supporting materials
Common Supporting Documentation
Organizations are generally expected to provide:
- Formation documents
- Governing documents
- IRS determination letter
- Officer and director information
- Most recent financial information or IRS Form 990 series return
- Contracts with professional fundraisers (if applicable)
Exemptions
Virginia recognizes several exemption categories. Examples commonly include:
- Religious organizations and affiliated ministries
- Certain educational institutions
- Organizations receiving minimal contributions and using only volunteer fundraising
- Government entities
- Membership-based organizations that solicit only internally
Organizations claiming exemption typically must file documentation establishing eligibility rather than assuming exemption automatically.
Annual Renewal and Reporting
Renewal Requirement
Registered organizations must renew annually to maintain active status.
Filing Components
Renewal submissions generally include:
- Updated registration information
- Current IRS Form 990, 990-EZ, or 990-PF
- Updated fundraising relationships
- Applicable renewal fees
Due Date
The renewal is typically due within several months following the organization’s fiscal year end.
Extensions may be available when IRS filing extensions have been obtained.
Financial Reporting & Audit Thresholds (Virginia-Specific)
Virginia applies tiered financial reporting requirements based on contribution levels:
- Lower contribution levels: IRS Form 990 or internally prepared financial information may be acceptable
- Mid-range contribution levels: CPA-reviewed financial statements may be required
- Higher contribution levels: Audited financial statements prepared by an independent CPA are required
Organizations conducting significant national fundraising should plan audit timelines early to avoid renewal delays.
Virginia and Multi-State Fundraising Compliance
Virginia is considered a standard registration state within a national compliance program:
- Registration is required prior to solicitation
- Annual reporting is enforced
- Financial thresholds may trigger audit or review requirements
- Professional fundraiser relationships must be disclosed
Multi-state fundraising compliance guidance
Need Help Managing Virginia Registration?
Ironwood Registrations supports nonprofits by:
- Coordinating initial and renewal filings
- Tracking financial reporting thresholds
- Managing multi-state compliance calendars
- Reducing internal administrative burden
Or contact our team directly