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Virginia Charitable Solicitation Registration: Compliance Requirements for Nonprofits

One of the most important—and most overlooked—compliance requirements for Virginia nonprofits is charitable solicitation registration. Unlike most states where the Attorney General oversees charitable registration, Virginia handles this through the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) .

Who Must Register

Before soliciting contributions in Virginia, charitable organizations must register with VDACS by filing Form 102 . The initial fee is $100 .

Exemptions: Religious organizations and those raising less than $5,000 annually may be exempt from registration, provided they do not use paid fundraisers . However, even if exempt, it is good practice to register anyway for transparency and credibility with donors .

Annual Renewal

Virginia nonprofits must renew their charitable solicitation registration annually . The renewal fee is $30 .

The renewal filing includes an annual financial report with VDACS Office of Charitable and Regulatory Programs . Organizations must also file their IRS Form 990 series return.

Disclosure Requirements

Virginia law requires charitable organizations to include a specific disclosure statement in solicitation materials informing donors that financial information is available from the state . The exact language is prescribed by VDACS .

Consequences of Noncompliance

Failure to register or renew charitable solicitation registration can result in:

  • Inability to legally solicit contributions in Virginia

  • Potential fines and penalties

  • Loss of donor confidence

  • Negative impact on grant applications

VDACS Resources

The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) maintains the Office of Charitable and Regulatory Programs, which oversees charitable solicitation registration. Organizations should consult VDACS for the most current forms, fees, and requirements.

Connection to Form 990 Compliance

The IRS Form 990 includes questions about state charitable solicitation registration compliance. Organizations that fail to register in Virginia may need to disclose this on their Form 990.

Financial Statement Requirements

Virginia nonprofits must file an annual financial report with VDACS as part of their registration renewal . Many organizations use their IRS Form 990 to satisfy this requirement.

At Nova Tax & Accounting Services , we help Virginia nonprofits with Form 990 preparation and compliance with state charitable solicitation registration. Schedule your free consultation to discuss your organization’s compliance needs.