Part of the Multi-State Fundraising Compliance Series. It is design to provide practical guidance on charitable solicitation registration and multi-state fundraising compliance.
Video Overview:
Many nonprofits focus on obtaining federal tax-exempt status, but that alone does not allow them to fundraise freely across all states. Maryland requires nonprofits to register before soliciting donations from its residents, even if the organization is based elsewhere.
In this video, we explain how charitable solicitation registration works in Maryland, including who must register, what types of fundraising activities trigger requirements, and how the initial filing process works. We also cover the role of the Maryland Secretary of State’s Charitable Organizations Division and the state’s financial reporting requirements.
Because Maryland includes tiered financial reporting requirements based on fundraising activity, understanding these rules is especially important for growing nonprofits. This overview provides practical guidance to help organizations evaluate their obligations and remain compliant.
This video explains Maryland charitable solicitation registration requirements, including who must register, how to file, and how financial reporting requirements impact 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.
What This Video Covers
- Overview of Maryland charitable solicitation laws
- Role of the Maryland Secretary of State (Charitable Organizations Division)
- Fundraising activities that trigger registration requirements
- Initial registration process and required documentation
- Tiered financial reporting requirements (audit, review, or financial statements)
Who This Video Is For
- Executive directors launching fundraising expansion
- Development teams building online campaigns
- Finance and compliance staff overseeing registrations
- Boards evaluating regulatory risk
- Organizations expanding fundraising beyond their home state
Video Summary
Maryland regulates charitable solicitation through the Secretary of State, specifically within the Charitable Organizations Division. This office oversees nonprofit organizations that solicit donations from Maryland residents and maintains a registry of charitable organizations. These regulations are designed to promote transparency and provide donors with access to key financial information.
Most nonprofits must register in Maryland before soliciting charitable contributions from residents of the state. This requirement applies to organizations located within Maryland as well as those based in other states. If a nonprofit is asking Maryland residents for donations, whether through online, digital, or traditional fundraising methods, registration is typically required before those activities begin.
A wide range of fundraising activities can trigger registration requirements. These include online donation platforms, email campaigns, social media outreach, direct mail solicitations, telephone fundraising, and events promoted to Maryland residents. Even organizations without a physical presence in Maryland may still be required to register if their fundraising efforts reach donors in the state.
To complete the initial registration, nonprofits must submit a filing with the Maryland Secretary of State. This filing typically includes formation documents, an IRS determination letter, a list of officers and directors, and financial information about the organization’s activities. Many organizations must also submit their most recent IRS Form 990. Filing fees may vary depending on the organization’s revenue.
One of the key aspects of Maryland compliance is its tiered financial reporting requirements. Depending on how much an organization raises, it may be required to submit reviewed or audited financial statements in addition to standard financial reporting. These requirements are designed to provide greater transparency for organizations that raise larger amounts of charitable contributions.
Out-of-state nonprofits are not exempt from Maryland’s requirements. Even without a physical presence in the state, organizations must register if their fundraising efforts reach Maryland residents. However, charitable solicitation registration is separate from corporate registration requirements, which depend on whether the nonprofit conducts business activities within the state.
Maryland provides exemptions for certain organizations. Religious organizations, educational institutions, and some small charities may qualify for exemption, though documentation is typically required. Once registered, nonprofits must maintain compliance through annual renewal filings that include updated financial and organizational information. Renewal deadlines are generally tied to the organization’s fiscal year end.
Unsure whether your nonprofit needs to register before fundraising in other states?
We help nonprofits evaluate requirements across all states.
Schedule a Compliance Review
About the Multi-State Fundraising Compliance Series
The Multi-State Fundraising Compliance Series is an educational video series explaining charitable solicitation registration, multi-state fundraising compliance, and related nonprofit regulatory requirements. Each video addresses a specific compliance question commonly faced by nonprofit executives, development teams, and finance leaders.
Full Video Transcript
FAQs
Do nonprofits need to register in Maryland before fundraising?
Yes. Most nonprofits must register with the Maryland Secretary of State before soliciting donations from Maryland residents.
Does online fundraising trigger Maryland registration requirements?
Yes. Online fundraising—including websites, email campaigns, and social media—can trigger registration if Maryland residents are being solicited.
Do out-of-state nonprofits need to register in Maryland?
Yes. Nonprofits located outside Maryland must register if they solicit donations from Maryland residents.
Who regulates charitable solicitation in Maryland?
The Maryland Secretary of State, through the Charitable Organizations Division, oversees charitable solicitation registration.
What are Maryland’s financial reporting requirements for nonprofits?
Depending on fundraising levels, nonprofits may need to submit financial statements, reviewed financials, or audited financial statements along with their filings.
Are there exemptions from Maryland registration requirements?
Yes. Certain religious organizations, educational organizations, membership organizations, and small charities may qualify, though documentation is typically required.
Related Compliance Videos
- What Is Charitable Solicitation Registration?
- Which States Require Charitable Solicitation Registration?
- Charitable Solicitation Registration Explained for Nonprofits
- Do Small Nonprofits Need to Register in Every State?
Related Compliance Resources
- Maryland Charitable Solicitation Registration Requirements
- Maryland Fundraising Compliance Guide
- Maryland Charitable Solicitation Registration Exemptions
Need Help Evaluating Your Registration Requirements?
If your organization is evaluating fundraising expansion or navigating multi-state registration requirements, you may schedule a consultation to discuss your situation.