If your nonprofit is planning to hire a professional fundraiser or fundraising consultant, it’s important to understand state professional fundraiser registration requirements. Many states regulate professional fundraisers to protect donors and ensure transparency in charitable giving.
Who Needs to Register?
A professional fundraiser is an individual or company hired by a nonprofit to solicit donations on its behalf. This includes:
- Telemarketing or direct mail firms that raise funds for charities
- Consultants who plan and manage fundraising campaigns
- Online platforms that actively solicit donations for nonprofits
Which States Require Professional Fundraiser Registration?
As of 2025, 43 states regulate professional fundraisers, requiring professional fundraiser registration, reporting, and compliance. These states include:
Alabama, Alaska, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, and Wisconsin.
Each state has its own rules, and failing to comply can lead to fines, legal action, and reputational harm for both the fundraiser and the nonprofit.
What is Required?
- State Registration & Licensing – Professional fundraisers must register with the appropriate state agency (usually the Attorney General’s Office or Charitable Trust Division).
- Bonding Requirements – Some states require fundraisers to obtain a financial bond to protect donors.
- Annual Renewals & Reporting – Fundraisers may need to submit financial reports, contracts, and campaign results to maintain compliance.
What Nonprofits Should Know
- Fundraiser Contracts Must Be Filed – Many states require nonprofits to submit copies of their contracts with professional fundraisers.
- Disclosure Requirements – Fundraisers must disclose their paid status when soliciting donations.
- Nonprofits May Also Need to Register – If your nonprofit is fundraising in multiple states, it may need to register separately for charitable solicitation.
How to Stay Compliant
- Verify that any professional fundraiser you hire is properly registered in the relevant states.
- Understand the specific rules in each state where your nonprofit is soliciting donations.
- Keep accurate records of fundraising activities and contracts.
- Work with legal counsel to ensure compliance and avoid penalties.
If you have questions about fundraiser registration or compliance, we’re here to help! Contact us for guidance on state-specific requirements.
Ellis Carter is a nonprofit lawyer with Caritas Law Group, P.C. licensed to practice in Washington and Arizona. Ellis advises nonprofit and socially responsible businesses on federal tax and fundraising regulations nationwide. Ellis also advises donors concerning major gifts. To schedule a consultation with Ellis, call 602-456-0071 or email us through