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 are surprised to learn that fundraising in New York often requires registration with the state before any solicitations begin. Whether your organization is based in New York or located elsewhere, requesting donations from New York residents, through online campaigns, email, direct mail, or events, can trigger registration requirements.
In this video, we break down how New York’s charitable solicitation registration system works, including who must register, what the initial filing involves, and how ongoing compliance is maintained. We also explain the role of the New York Attorney General’s Charities Bureau and how the state’s public registry promotes transparency and donor protection.
Because New York has one of the more detailed regulatory frameworks in the country, understanding these requirements is essential for nonprofits engaged in multi-state fundraising. This overview provides a clear, practical introduction to help organizations determine their obligations and stay compliant.
This video explains New York’s charitable solicitation registration requirements, including who must register, how the process works, 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.
What This Video Covers
- Overview of New York charitable solicitation laws
- Role of the New York Attorney General’s Charities Bureau
- Who must register, including out-of-state nonprofits
- Fundraising activities that trigger registration requirements
- Initial registration process and required documentation
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
New York has one of the most comprehensive charitable solicitation registration systems in the United States. Nonprofits that solicit donations from New York residents are generally required to register with the New York Attorney General’s Charities Bureau before beginning fundraising activities. This requirement applies broadly to both in-state and out-of-state organizations.
The Charities Bureau regulates charitable solicitation activity and maintains a public registry of organizations fundraising in New York. This system promotes transparency by allowing donors, regulators, and the public to access information about nonprofit organizations and their financial activities.
Organizations must register if they solicit contributions from New York residents through a wide range of fundraising methods. These include online donation requests, email campaigns, social media appeals, direct mail, telephone solicitations, and fundraising events. Even indirect or digital outreach can trigger registration requirements if New York donors are being targeted.
The initial registration process requires nonprofits to submit detailed organizational and financial information. This typically includes formation documents, IRS determination letters, officer and director listings, and the organization’s most recent IRS Form 990, 990-EZ, or 990-PF. Once approved, the organization may begin soliciting contributions in the state.
After registering, nonprofits must maintain compliance through annual reporting. These filings generally include updated financial information, IRS Form 990 submissions, and any changes to organizational details. These requirements ensure that regulators and the public have access to current and accurate information about charitable organizations.
New York also imposes financial reporting thresholds based on the amount of contributions raised. Larger organizations may be required to submit reviewed or audited financial statements prepared by an independent CPA, adding another layer of oversight for higher-volume fundraising operations.
While some organizations may qualify for exemptions, such as religious institutions, certain educational institutions, and membership organization, these exemptions are not automatic and may still require notification filings or documentation. Nonprofits must also actively manage compliance by tracking deadlines, monitoring fundraising activities, and updating filings as needed to remain in good standing.
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 New York before fundraising?
Yes. In most cases, nonprofits must register with the New York Attorney General’s Charities Bureau before soliciting donations from New York residents.
Does online fundraising trigger New York registration requirements?
Yes. Online fundraising, including website donation buttons, email campaigns, and social media appeals, can trigger registration if New York residents are being solicited.
Do out-of-state nonprofits need to register in New York?
Yes. Nonprofits located outside New York must still register if they solicit donations from New York residents.
What is required for New York charitable registration?
Organizations typically must submit formation documents, IRS determination letters, a list of officers and directors, and their most recent IRS Form 990 or equivalent.
Are there exemptions from New York registration requirements?
Yes. Certain religious organizations, educational institutions, and membership organizations may qualify for exemptions, though documentation or notice filings may still be required.
When are audited financial statements required in New York?
Organizations that raise higher levels of contributions may be required to submit reviewed or audited financial statements depending on financial thresholds.
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
- New York Charitable Solicitation Registration Requirements
- New York Fundraising Compliance Guide
- New York 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.