At a Glance

Most nonprofit organizations must register with the North Carolina Secretary of State before soliciting contributions in the state. The process requires submitting an application, documentation, and fees through the online portal, with renewals due annually by the 15th day of the fifth month following your fiscal year end. Failing to register properly could result in hefty fines and penalties.

Fortunately, registering your organization in North Carolina doesn’t have to be complicated. The charitable solicitation process might seem overwhelming at first, but with the right guidance from experienced compliance specialists, you can navigate it successfully. Many nonprofits struggle with understanding when they need to register and what specific requirements apply to their organization. However, once you understand the basics of charity registration and have trusted professionals managing the details, you’ll be able to focus on what really matters: your mission.

This step-by-step guide breaks down everything you need to know about registering for charitable solicitation in North Carolina. From determining if your organization needs to register to completing the application process, we’ll walk you through each step to ensure you remain compliant with state regulations. Let’s get your nonprofit properly registered so you can continue making a difference!

Who Must Register for Charitable Solicitation in North Carolina

North Carolina law requires many charitable organizations to register before fundraising in the state. Understanding these requirements will help you avoid penalties and maintain your organization’s good standing.

What qualifies as charitable solicitation

Charitable solicitation in North Carolina generally includes any request for money, property, financial assistance, or other items of value based on the representation that it will be used for a charitable purpose. The state defines “charitable” broadly, encompassing environmental, health, educational, humane, patriotic, scientific, artistic, social welfare, and civic purposes.

Essentially, charitable solicitation includes any appeal made on behalf of a charitable organization or for a charitable cause. This registration requirement applies whether your organization is based in North Carolina or another state.

A “charitable organization” under state law includes entities that operate or present themselves as established for charitable purposes. For comprehensive guidance on charitable solicitation registration, consulting with experts can streamline your compliance process.

Types of organizations that must register

Unless exempt, any charity, sponsor, or individual requesting public contributions for a charitable cause must register with the North Carolina Secretary of State (919-814-5400, sosnc.gov) Charitable Solicitation Licensing (CSL) Division. This includes:

• North Carolina-based nonprofits soliciting within the state
• Out-of-state organizations fundraising in North Carolina
• Organizations hiring fundraising consultants or professional solicitors
• Chapters, branches, or affiliates of national organizations soliciting contributions within North Carolina

Separate business registration requirements may apply depending on your activities in the state. Understanding these charitable registration obligations is crucial for maintaining compliance.

Fundraising activities that trigger registration

The range of activities considered “solicitation” under North Carolina law is extensive and includes:

• Oral or written requests for donations
• Announcements via press, radio, television, telephone, or other communication devices
• Distributing or publishing handbills, advertisements, or publications seeking contributions
• Selling or offering goods or services to benefit a charitable organization (including amounts paid above fair market value)
• Placing collection receptacles in public view for donated items intended for resale

Nearly anything your organization does to generate funds is considered fundraising, including direct mailings, annual events, social media fundraising, hiring consultants, merchandise sales, sponsorships, corporate requests, and capital campaigns.

Remember that solicitation can include digital charitable solicitation as well.

The annual renewal is equally important. Organizations must renew their licenses each year to maintain licensed status. Renewal is due by the 15th day of the fifth month following the end of your fiscal year (for example, a December 31 year-end renews by May 15). Organizations soliciting in multiple states should investigate similar requirements in those jurisdictions. Working with specialists who track deadlines across all states helps ensure nothing falls through the cracks.

For organizations uncertain about their status, you can verify whether a charity is licensed by using the NCSOS “Search Our Registry” tool: NCSOS Search Our Registry.

Understanding Exemptions and Exceptions

While many organizations must register for charitable solicitation in North Carolina, state law provides important exemptions for certain groups. Understanding these exceptions can save your nonprofit time and resources if you qualify.

Organizations automatically exempt

North Carolina law identifies thirteen categories of organizations that are exempt from charitable solicitation licensing requirements. These include:

• Religious institutions soliciting charitable contributions
• Federal, state, or local government entities
• Noncommercial radio or television stations
• Qualified community trusts
• Young Men’s or Women’s Christian Associations
• Volunteer fire departments, REACT teams, rescue squads, and emergency medical services
• Licensed hospitals and their associated foundations
• Nonprofit continuing care facilities
• Tax-exempt nonprofit fire or emergency medical service organizations selling goods without requesting donations
• Educational institutions accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (or equivalent) and related foundations/departments
• Bona fide volunteers, employees, or salaried officers of charitable organizations
• Attorneys, investment counselors, and bankers who merely advise clients about making charitable contributions

For organizations considering charitable solicitation registration requirements across multiple states, professional guidance can streamline your compliance process.

How to apply for an exemption

To obtain an exemption letter from the Department, eligible organizations may submit a written request for exemption with supporting documentation. Organizations receiving less than $50,000 in contributions annually that do not compensate any officer, trustee, organizer, incorporator, fundraiser, or solicitor may use the Request for Exemption under 131F-3(3) form (available at NCSOS forms page).

Supporting documentation typically includes financial information (such as IRS Form 990/990-EZ/990-N or a board-approved budget) or the NC Annual Financial Report Form, and, if applicable, a copy of your IRS determination letter. Educational institutions may complete the Questionnaire for Education Exemption under 131F-3(4) (no fee).

Annual exemption renewal requirements

Certain exemptions require an annual review. Organizations qualifying under the $50,000 contribution threshold are reviewed each year. The annual review/renewal is due by the 15th day of the fifth month following the close of your fiscal year. The same Request for Exemption under 131F-3(3) form is used, and there is no fee. Failing to submit timely information may result in loss of recognized exempt status, potentially requiring full charitable solicitation registration.

If your organization’s annual contributions exceed $50,000 or you begin compensating officers, board members, fundraisers, or solicitors, you will no longer qualify for this exemption and must obtain a license. The Department of the Secretary of State may review or revoke exemptions at any time.

Documents and Information You’ll Need

Preparing for charitable solicitation registration requires gathering several important documents beforehand. Having these materials organized will streamline your application process and help avoid delays in securing your registration.

IRS determination letter and Form 990

If your organization has IRS recognition, include your IRS determination letter. North Carolina will also license organizations that are not IRS tax-exempt; in those cases, provide financial information as outlined in the application instructions (such as your most recent IRS Form 990/990-EZ/990-N, an audit, or the NC Annual Financial Report Form).

List of officers, directors, and fundraisers

North Carolina requires comprehensive information about your leadership team, including:

• Names and addresses of officers, directors, and trustees
• Compensation details for key individuals
• Contact information for your organization’s primary representative

You must also disclose individuals who control the organization’s finances or fundraising activities.

Disclosure of fundraising contracts

Any agreements with professional fundraisers or consultants must be disclosed during charity registration. You’ll need to provide copies of contracts, compensation arrangements, and contact information for all contracted fundraisers when applicable.

Financial statements and contribution history

Your application includes financial information about your organization’s activities. Larger organizations may need audited financial statements. Understanding these requirements is critical for successful charitable solicitation compliance.

Throughout the application process, maintain careful records of all submitted materials. Having a complete document package ready before beginning the registration application will reduce processing time and help ensure accurate filings from the start.

Step-by-Step Registration Process

Registering for charitable solicitation in North Carolina can be completed online once you’ve gathered all necessary documents. Working with experienced compliance specialists can make nonprofit registration straightforward and error-free.

Create an account on the NC Secretary of State portal

Start on the NCSOS Charities Online Filing page and select the online filing option. New users will create an account; returning users can log in with existing credentials. Review the online filing checklist to ensure you have all required information. For organizations managing multiple state registrations, charitable solicitation registration services can help streamline setup across all jurisdictions.

Complete the Initial License Application

After logging in, choose the “Initial Charity/Sponsor” application if this is your first registration. You will provide details about your organization, including:

• Charitable purpose
• Fiscal year-end date
• Federal tax-exemption status (if applicable)
• Formation and contact information

Be prepared to enter contact information for an organizational representative who can verify application details.

Upload required documents and disclosures

Upload all supporting documentation, including the required Notary Form for Initial or Renewal Application. The notary form must be properly signed and notarized by an authorized officer as directed in the form instructions.

Pay the appropriate registration fee

The system calculates your registration fee based on contributions from the previous fiscal year. Follow the prompts to complete payment through the portal. While online filing is available and recommended, you can also submit by mail using the forms and instructions on the NCSOS website.

Submit and track your application status

Once submitted, NCSOS will review your application. Within 10 days of receipt, the Department will approve the application, deny it, or request additional information. You can track your filing and view your license via your online account and the public “Search Our Registry” tool.

Renewing and Maintaining Your Registration

Maintaining your charitable solicitation license in North Carolina requires regular renewal and attention to deadlines. Once registered, staying compliant involves understanding the renewal cycle and knowing how to handle extensions when needed.

Annual renewal deadlines and extensions

All registered charities must renew annually by the 15th day of the fifth month following the end of their fiscal year (for example, May 15 for a December 31 year-end). North Carolina automatically grants a 60-day extension to organizations in current standing. The renewal uses the same application as the initial filing, selecting the renewal option.

Filing IRS Form 8868 for extra time

Need additional time beyond the automatic 60-day extension? You can request up to a six-month total extension by timely filing IRS Form 8868 and providing proof of filing to NCSOS before the automatic extension expires. Most exempt organizations must file Form 8868 electronically. Note that extending time to file does not extend time to pay any taxes due.

Late fees and penalties to avoid

If you miss your renewal deadline (and any extensions), a late fee of $25 per month or part of a month applies until your filing is received. Working with professionals who specialize in charity registration can help you avoid penalties through proactive deadline management and automated renewal tracking.

How to update your information

Update changes to officers, fundraising relationships, or financial information as part of your annual renewal. For midyear changes or questions about amendments, contact the CSL Division or use the “Amend an existing filing” option on the NCSOS website. Maintaining accurate information helps ensure your registration remains valid and in good standing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

Navigating the charitable solicitation registration process in North Carolina might seem daunting at first. However, understanding the requirements thoroughly or partnering with experienced compliance specialists helps your nonprofit stay compliant while focusing on its mission. The registration process follows a systematic approach that becomes manageable with proper preparation and guidance.

Remember that most organizations soliciting contributions in North Carolina must register unless specifically exempt. Gather necessary documentation before applying, including organizational information, financial statements, and leadership details. The online system guides you through each step of the application.

Staying on top of renewal deadlines prevents unnecessary late fees and penalties. The annual renewal deadline falls on the 15th day of the fifth month after your fiscal year ends, and automatic extensions provide some flexibility. Organizations managing charitable solicitation registration across multiple states often benefit from working with specialists who maintain compliance calendars and track various deadlines, ensuring nothing gets overlooked.

Proper compliance protects your organization’s reputation and ensures donor trust. Failing to register appropriately could result in significant financial penalties and potential damage to your nonprofit’s credibility. Expert guidance combined with modern technology can help handle your nonprofit’s registrations and renewals accurately and on time, freeing your team to focus on mission-critical work.

Successful charitable solicitation compliance allows your nonprofit to focus on what truly matters: fulfilling your mission and making a positive impact in the communities you serve. Start your registration process today and secure your organization’s legal foundation for fundraising success.