Virginia Charitable Solicitation Registration Requirements (2026)

Who must register in Virginia?

In general, a charitable organization should evaluate Virginia registration if it asks Virginia residents for donations, runs events or campaigns in the state, receives support through a paid fundraiser, or otherwise conducts fundraising activity connected to the state.

Before soliciting charitable contributions in the state, unless an exemption applies. Online giving, email appeals, direct mail, grant outreach, and professional fundraising relationships can all matter. The safest planning step is to identify where donors are being asked, not just where the nonprofit is incorporated.

Who may be exempt?

Exemption rules in Virginia depend on organization type, fundraising volume, solicitation method, and whether anyone is paid to solicit. These categories are common starting points, not a substitute for checking the state rule.

• Churches and associations of churches
• Political organizations
• Organizations approved for Form 100 exemption
• Other statutory exclusions

Many states require a formal exemption request or supporting proof. If your nonprofit grows past a threshold or hires a professional fundraiser, revisit the exemption before the next appeal.

Required documents

Virginia filings commonly use Form 102 for charitable organizations and Form 100 for exemption requests. They are the only state to require 'wet' signatures for charitable registration.

• Legal name, EIN, mailing address, and primary contact details
• Articles of incorporation, trust instrument, or other formation document
• Bylaws or governing rules
• IRS determination letter or pending exemption materials
• Names and titles of officers, directors, and trustees
• Most recent Form 990 series return
• Professional fundraiser contracts and campaign details, if outside fundraisers are used
• Financial review or audit -- depending on your organization's contributions, revenue, and income