Does fundraising on the Internet require registration in every state? According to some, there is no final answer … but here’s what Charity Navigator had to say yesterday:

A Fundraising Cost Charities Can’t Control

Charities that solicit contributions from the public are required to register in every state that has such laws mandating registration (not all do). Not only are the initial and renewal registration processes oftentimes cumbersome and intrusive – in some states the fees have become absolutely outrageous!

And we know this firsthand. Charity Navigator is registered in 34 states and, thus far this year, we have paid close to $3,300 in registration fees. Before the year is out, we will have forked over close to $4,500 in fees and spent countless man hours of valuable time filling out redundant renewal registrations.

This post is intended to provide basic information and should not to be considered professional advice. It should not replace, nor supplant, recommendations by licensed professionals; such as accountants and/or lawyers. In matters such as this, it is important to check with you own professional advisors who have knowledge of the appropriate jurisdictions.