Hawaii Charitable Solicitation Registration Overview

Many nonprofits focus on obtaining federal tax-exempt status, but that alone does not allow them to fundraise freely across all states. Hawaii requires nonprofits to register before soliciting donations from its residents, even if the organization is located elsewhere.

In this video, we explain how charitable solicitation registration works in Hawaii, including who must register, what types of fundraising activities trigger requirements, and how the initial filing process is completed. We also cover the role of the Hawaii Department of the Attorney General’s Tax & Charities Division in regulating charitable organizations.

Whether your nonprofit is based in Hawaii or conducting nationwide fundraising, understanding these requirements is essential. This overview provides practical guidance to help organizations determine their obligations and remain compliant as they expand fundraising activities.

This video explains Hawaii charitable solicitation registration requirements, including who must register, how to file, and how nonprofits maintain compliance.

This video is part of the Multi-State Fundraising Compliance Series, which explains charitable solicitation registration and nonprofit fundraising compliance requirements across the United States.

View All Compliance Videos

Hawaii regulates charitable solicitation through the Department of the Attorney General, specifically within its Tax & Charities Division. This office oversees charitable organizations that solicit donations from Hawaii residents and ensures that required financial and organizational disclosures are available. These regulations are intended to promote transparency and accountability in charitable fundraising.

Most nonprofits must register in Hawaii before soliciting charitable contributions from residents of the state. This requirement applies to organizations located within Hawaii as well as those based in other states. If a nonprofit is requesting donations from Hawaii residents, whether directly or through third parties, it may need to register before beginning those activities.

A wide range of fundraising methods can trigger registration requirements. These include direct mail campaigns, email solicitations, online donation platforms, social media fundraising, events, and sponsorship campaigns. Organizations that use professional fundraisers or fundraising counsel to solicit donations in Hawaii may also be subject to registration requirements.

To complete the initial registration, nonprofits must submit an application with the Attorney General’s office. This filing typically includes formation documents, bylaws, an IRS determination letter, a list of officers and directors, and financial information from the organization’s most recent IRS Form 990. Hawaii provides an online filing system that allows nonprofits to submit and manage their registrations electronically.

Out-of-state nonprofits are not exempt from Hawaii’s requirements. Even without a physical presence in the state, organizations must register if their fundraising efforts reach Hawaii residents. However, charitable solicitation registration is separate from corporate registration requirements, which depend on whether the organization conducts other activities within the state.

Hawaii provides exemptions for certain organizations. Religious organizations, qualifying educational institutions, and some small charities may be exempt from registration requirements. However, organizations seeking exemption typically must submit documentation to the state before relying on that exemption.

Once registered, nonprofits must maintain compliance through annual renewal filings. These filings generally include updated financial information, IRS Form 990 data, and any changes to leadership. Renewal deadlines are typically tied to the organization’s fiscal year end, and timely filings are necessary to remain in good standing.