Last Updated: February 2026
Charitable organizations that solicit contributions in New Hampshire are generally required to register with the New Hampshire Department of Justice, Charitable Trusts Unit before engaging in fundraising activity in the state.
New Hampshire provides limited exemptions from registration. However, exemption eligibility is narrower than many nonprofit leaders assume, and most organizations soliciting from New Hampshire residents will be required to register.
This page explains who qualifies for exemption from New Hampshire charitable solicitation registration and when registration is required.
For a national overview of charitable registration systems, see:
How Charitable Registration Works
When Registration Is Required in New Hampshire
A charitable organization must register in New Hampshire if it:
- Solicits contributions in New Hampshire; or
- Has contributions solicited on its behalf in New Hampshire.
Registration generally must occur prior to solicitation and must be renewed annually.
Out-of-state nonprofits are not exempt solely because they are incorporated elsewhere.
For broader context:
Charitable Solicitation Registration Requirements
New Hampshire Charitable Registration Exemptions
New Hampshire provides primarily categorical exemptions. Unlike many states, it does not provide a broad low-revenue exemption that automatically excludes small organizations from registration.
Some exempt organizations may still be required to file documentation confirming exemption status.
1. Religious Organizations
Certain religious organizations are exempt from registration.
This generally includes churches and organizations operated exclusively for religious purposes.
Separately incorporated charitable affiliates, foundations, or ministries may require independent analysis.
2. Educational Institutions
Certain educational institutions may qualify for exemption, particularly those operating within recognized accreditation frameworks.
Affiliated foundations should evaluate exemption eligibility separately, as exemption is not automatically extended.
3. Governmental Entities
Federal, state, and local governmental entities are exempt from charitable registration requirements.
4. Political Organizations
Political candidates, political parties, and political committees required to file election disclosures are exempt.
This exemption does not extend to charitable advocacy organizations that are not formal political committees.
No Broad Small Charity Exemption
New Hampshire does not provide a blanket exemption for charities below a specific contribution threshold.
Even small nonprofits receiving modest donations from New Hampshire residents may be required to register.
Organizations relying solely on volunteers should not assume exemption without reviewing the statute carefully.
For planning context:
How Many States Must Nonprofits Register In?
Online Fundraising and New Hampshire
If your nonprofit:
- Accepts online donations from New Hampshire residents,
- Conducts digital campaigns targeting New Hampshire, or
- Uses national donation platforms that generate New Hampshire contributions,
registration is typically required unless a clear exemption applies.
Online fundraising frequently triggers multi-state obligations.
For digital compliance analysis:
Online Fundraising & Charleston Principles
Where Nonprofits Must Register Based on Online Fundraising
Renewal and Reporting Considerations
Registered charities in New Hampshire must renew annually and submit required financial reporting.
Audit requirements may apply depending on revenue thresholds.
Finance leaders should coordinate charitable registration compliance with Form 990 preparation and annual audit timelines.
For deadline tracking:
Charitable Solicitation Registration Renewal Deadlines
What New Hampshire Does Not Exempt
New Hampshire does not provide:
- A blanket exemption for all 501(c)(3) organizations
- A broad revenue-based exemption
- An exemption for organizations that compensate fundraising personnel
- An exemption solely because the organization is headquartered outside New Hampshire
Most organizations conducting public fundraising in New Hampshire must register.
For related risk considerations:
Charitable Solicitation Registration Mistakes That Put Nonprofits at Risk
Multi-State Planning Context
An organization exempt in New Hampshire may still be required to register in neighboring states such as Massachusetts, Vermont, Maine, or Connecticut.
Conversely, organizations exempt elsewhere may still need to register in New Hampshire due to its limited exemption framework.
For broader exemption strategy guidance:
Charitable Solicitation Registration Exemptions
If your organization is evaluating New Hampshire exemption eligibility as part of a national fundraising strategy: