North Dakota allows for the formation of charitable organizations (NDCC ch. 50-22). A charitable organization is a type of nonprofit that operates for the benefit of the public or a specific cause and participates in solicitation for charitable purposes.
Charitable organizations may be formed to serve the public good, such as for philanthropic, religious, educational, cultural, or other public service reasons. Charitable organizations are:
Learn more about North Dakota requirements for Charitable Organizations here.
Nonprofits operating and fundraising in North Dakota must register with the North Dakota Secretary of State. You must register your organization as a nonprofit with the Office of the Secretary of State before filing a Charitable Organization Registration Statement.
Check out this handy guide for beginning and maintaining a charitable organization in North Dakota.
To maintain compliance in North Dakota, nonprofits must file an annual report with the North Dakota Secretary of State.
Nonprofits operating in North Dakota must comply with the state's requirements for charitable organizations, including registering with the Secretary of State and filing annual reports through the FirstStop portal. Registration and renewal ensure transparency and accountability for funds raised and used for public benefit. Extensions are available for up to one year if requested before the deadline. However, failure to file could lead to the organization becoming inactive in the state. Adhering to these regulations supports the nonprofit's standing and its mission to serve the community.