Illinois Charity Fundraising Requirements

Nonprofits operating and fundraising in Illinois must register with the Attorney General’s Charitable Trust Bureau. 

Check out the Illinois Charitable Organization Registration Instructions for more guidance.

2024 Updates

Effective January 1, 2024, Illinois has updated its financial reporting requirements under the Solicitation for Charity Act:

• Audit Requirement: Charities with volunteer-run fundraising and contributions exceeding $500,000 must now include an audit with their annual report.
• Reviewed Financial Statement: For contributions between $300,000 and $500,000, a Reviewed Financial Statement may be filed instead of an audit.
• These changes apply to reports due after January 1, 2024 (excluding extensions).

The $25,000 audit threshold for charities using paid fundraisers remains unchanged. For details, refer to 225 ILCS 460/4.

Required Documents

• CO-2: Financial Information Form (if applicable)
• List of officers
• IRS determination letter
• Contracts with Professional Fund Raisers (if applicable)
• A signed statement indicating no funds were solicited or held in Illinois at any time prior to registration

To maintain compliance in Illinois, nonprofits must annually renew their registration with the Attorney General’s Charitable Trust Bureau. 

Required Documents

• IRS Form 990
• Financial statements (if applicable)

Navigating Illinois' charitable registration and renewal requirements ensures nonprofits remain compliant while fostering donor confidence. Initial registration involves filing with the Illinois Attorney General’s Charitable Trust Bureau, submitting detailed organizational information, and meeting audit or financial review thresholds, depending on annual contributions. 

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Illinois-specific requirements, such as thresholds for audits and reviewed financial statements, emphasize the importance of accurate reporting. By staying up to date on these regulations, law firms can help nonprofit clients effectively manage their obligations and avoid penalties.

For more information or guidance, consult the Illinois Attorney General's Charitable Trust Bureau.