Last Updated: February 2026
Connecticut requires most organizations that solicit charitable contributions in the state to register with the Department of Consumer Protection prior to beginning solicitation.
The state does provide defined exemption categories. However, unlike some jurisdictions, exemption is not automatic — eligible organizations must file a formal exemption claim.
This page explains who qualifies, how thresholds operate, and where national nonprofits often misinterpret Connecticut’s rules.
For a general overview of state registration systems, see:
How Charitable Registration Works
Overview of Connecticut’s Exemption Framework
Connecticut exemptions fall into two primary categories:
- Categorical exemptions (religious, educational, hospital, governmental)
- Small organization exemption (based on contribution thresholds and compensation limits)
Organizations seeking exemption must file a Claim of Exemption. Approval is ongoing unless the state requests verification.
Small Organization Exemption (Under $50,000)
An organization is exempt if:
- It normally receives less than $50,000 in contributions annually, and
- It does not compensate any person primarily to conduct solicitations.
Key points:
- The $50,000 threshold includes worldwide contributions, not just funds raised in Connecticut.
- Membership dues and similar payments do not need to be counted.
- The organization may have paid staff or contractors, provided fundraising is not their primary function.
If fundraising grows beyond the threshold, registration is required.
This exemption is commonly misunderstood in multi-state contexts, particularly by organizations expanding digital fundraising.
See:
How Many States Must Nonprofits Register In?
Religious Organizations
The following are exempt:
- Religious corporations
- Religious institutions
- Religious societies
Church-affiliated educational institutions and related entities may also qualify.
However, if a religious organization operates substantial nonreligious programs or compensates fundraising personnel, exemption should be carefully reviewed.
Educational Institutions
Educational institutions are exempt if:
- Their curricula are registered or approved by a state or federal authority, or
- They are accredited by a recognized accrediting body.
Parent-teacher associations also qualify.
Nonprofit Hospitals
Nonprofit hospitals licensed by Connecticut or another state are exempt.
Governmental Entities
Federal, state, and local governmental organizations are exempt.
Individuals Soliciting for Exempt Organizations
A person soliciting solely on behalf of an exempt organization does not need to register separately.
Chapters and Affiliates
A chapter, branch, or affiliate does not need to file its own exemption claim if:
- The parent organization files a consolidated annual registration covering the affiliate.
This structure requires careful documentation and coordination.
See:
Multi-State Registration Complexity
https://www.ironwoodregistrations.com/resources/multi-state-charitable-registration-complexity/
Online Fundraising and Connecticut
Connecticut follows principles consistent with the Charleston Principles for Internet solicitation analysis.
Out-of-state nonprofits generally must register if they:
- Directly target Connecticut residents, or
- Engage in sustained solicitation activity reaching the state.
Passive websites without targeted outreach typically do not trigger registration alone.
Organizations operating national digital campaigns should review:
Online Fundraising & Charleston Principles
Where Nonprofits Must Register Based on Online Fundraising
What Connecticut Does Not Exempt
Connecticut does not provide exemptions for:
- Organizations exceeding the $50,000 threshold
- Organizations compensating fundraising personnel
- National nonprofits conducting broad digital solicitation that targets state residents
Unlike some states, Connecticut requires a formal exemption filing — qualifying status is not assumed.
Governance and Risk Considerations
Boards and finance teams should:
- Monitor annual contribution levels against the $50,000 threshold
- Evaluate staff compensation structures related to fundraising
- Track state-specific digital solicitation exposure
- Confirm exemption status has been formally filed and approved
Failure to register when required can result in penalties and reputational risk.
See:
What Happens If a Nonprofit Fails to Register?
Multi-State Planning Context
An organization exempt in Connecticut may still be required to register in neighboring states. Conversely, organizations exempt elsewhere may exceed Connecticut’s $50,000 threshold and trigger registration here.
For broader exemption analysis:
Charitable Solicitation Registration Exemptions
If your organization is evaluating Connecticut exemption eligibility as part of a national fundraising strategy, you may schedule a consultation