How Do I Register a Charity Organization in the US?

Registration Requirements for Charitable Organizations

Most charitable organizations operating in New York are required to register with the Attorney General’s Charities Bureau. These include organizations engaged in charitable activities or soliciting charitable contributions in New York. The law exempts certain types of charities, such as religious organizations, from the requirement of mandatory registration.

Registration Process for Charities

  • All Charitable Incorporated Organisations (CIOs) must register with the Charity Commission, regardless of their annual income. CIOs do not formally exist as charities until they are registered.

  • Online registration checklist covers all the information you need to provide to register an organization as a charity in New York. Use it to complete the application form.

Operating as a Charity

A charity organization operates under a tax-exempt status by the state and federal government. Charity organizations typically raise money for a cause.

Setting Up a Charity

There are 6 steps to setting up a charity: Find trustees for your charity – you usually need at least 3.

Additional Information on Charity Registration and Compliance

  • Small unregistered charities can apply to HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) for the tax reliefs available to charities.

  • Charitable incorporated organizations cannot be fully recognized as charities until they are registered under the proper channels. A public charitable trust that is not registered can be chargeable to tax as an AOP (association of persons).

  • Charitable organizations that are registered and in compliance with annual reporting requirements of the Non-Profit Organizations/Public Charities Division will be granted an automatic 6-month extension.

  • Compliance with state laws is essential for building public trust, and organizations should aim to demonstrate their commitment to donor protection and ethical conduct.

Additional National Regulations and Oversight

  • The Charity Commission regulates and registers charities in England and Wales, answering directly to the UK Parliament.

  • Numerous Australian charities have appealed for uniform legislation to enable fundraising across all jurisdictions.

  • Private foundations and charitable trusts have specific regulatory requirements depending on their structure and activities.

Contact Information

For further inquiries, you can reach out to the Charity Commission at 0300 066 9197 Monday to Friday between 9 am and 5 pm.

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