How to Register for Charitable Solicitation in Florida: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide

Q: Where do I need to register for charitable solicitation in Florida?

Organizations must register with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) before soliciting donations in or from the state.

At a Glance

Florida requires most charitable organizations soliciting donations in or from the state to register with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) before asking for contributions. The registration process involves submitting financial documents, organizational information, and paying fees ranging from $10 to $400 based on your contribution levels. Organizations must renew annually on their registration anniversary date to maintain legal fundraising status.

Starting fundraising without proper registration isn’t just risky—it’s potentially costly for your organization. Florida law generally requires charitable organizations soliciting in or from Florida to register before asking for donations, unless an exemption applies. Many organizations find the process overwhelming with its paperwork, deadlines, and technical requirements.

Fortunately, we’ve created this comprehensive step-by-step guide to help you navigate Florida’s registration requirements and make nonprofit compliance easy. You’ll discover exactly what documents you need, how to submit them correctly, and when to complete each step. Specifically designed for nonprofit leaders like you, this guide simplifies the charitable registration process to save time and help prevent mistakes.

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Who Needs to Register for Charitable Solicitation in Florida

Understanding Florida’s charitable solicitation requirements is crucial for nonprofit organizations operating in the state. The Florida Solicitation of Contributions Act establishes clear guidelines on which entities must register and what activities require official authorization.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to register for charitable solicitation in Florida?

Registration fees range from $10 to $400 based on your organization’s contribution levels from the previous fiscal year. Organizations receiving under $5,000 pay $10, while those receiving $10 million or more pay $400.

When do I need to renew my Florida charitable registration?

Renewals are due annually on the anniversary date of your original registration approval, not your fiscal year end. Missing this deadline results in late fees of $25 per month.

Can my organization be exempt from Florida charitable registration?

Yes, certain organizations qualify for exemptions, including bona fide religious institutions, educational institutions, government entities, and small organizations receiving less than $50,000 annually in contributions.

What happens if I solicit donations before registering?

Soliciting without proper registration can result in administrative fines up to $5,000 per violation (though penalties for 501(c)(3) organizations are capped at $500 per violation for failure to register).