Question 1

Does a charity need to register to solicit donations in California?

Accepted Answer

Yes. California generally requires charitable organizations to register with the California Attorney General — Registry of Charities and Fundraisers before soliciting contributions in the state, unless an exemption applies. The requirement reaches out-of-state charities soliciting California residents.

Question 2

How much does charitable registration cost in California?

Accepted Answer

The initial registration fee is $50, and renewal is $25–$1,200, tiered on revenue. Fees are stated as the state sets them; where a fee varies with contributions, the tiers are cited on this page.

Question 3

When is the California charitable registration renewal due?

Accepted Answer

4 months and 15 days after fiscal year end. The date is computed from the organization's own fiscal year end under the rule this page cites, so it differs between charities.

Question 4

Are any charities exempt from registering in California?

Accepted Answer

California recognizes exemptions, and this page lists each one we check for with its statutory citation. The state, not a third party, decides whether an exemption applies.

Question 5

Does California require audited financial statements?

Accepted Answer

California requires an accountant's report above a revenue threshold. The lowest threshold on record is a audit above $2,000,000 in gross revenue. Every threshold and its citation are listed on this page.

Registration	Required
Agency	California Attorney General — Registry of Charities and Fundraisers
Initial fee	$50
Renewal fee	$25–$1,200, tiered on revenue
Renewal / report due	4 months and 15 days after fiscal year end

California charitable solicitation registration: requirements, fees, and deadlines

Who must register

Exemptions we check for

Financial statement thresholds

Is your charity registered in California? Check free.

Citations