Charitable Solicitation Registration in Tennessee
Heads Up: Tennessee requires charitable solicitation registration before you fundraise.
Before your nonprofit can solicit donations in Tennessee, you'll need to complete the registration process with the state. This guide walks you through the requirements, fees, and timeline.
Tennessee requires charitable solicitation registration before your nonprofit can solicit donations in the state.
The filing agency is the Tennessee Secretary of State, Division of Charitable Solicitation and Gaming (https://sos.tn.gov/charities).
Governing law: Tennessee Code Annotated §48-101-501 through 48-101-522.
What's Required
Registration form: Charitable Organization Initial Registration (Form SS-6001) — available at https://sos.tn.gov/charities
Required attachments: Copy of IRS determination letter (501(c)(3) letter); Copies of any fundraising contracts with professional fundraisers
Online filing: Yes — through Secretary of State portal at https://sos.tn.gov/charities
Who's Exempt
Religious organizations exempt: Yes — 501(c)(3) religious organizations are exempt from charitable solicitation registration
Revenue threshold exemption: Yes — organizations receiving less than $30,000 in gross contributions are exempt from registration
Other exemptions: Corporations established by act of Congress required by federal law to submit detailed reports to Congress
Fees & Costs
Initial registration fee: $50
Late penalty: Organizations not timely renewed may be administratively dissolved
Renewal Process
Renewal form: Application to Renew Registration of a Charitable Organization (Form SS-6007)
Due date: Last day of the 6th month after organization's fiscal year ends (e.g., June 30 for calendar-year organizations), or by extension if requested
Required for renewal: Copy of IRS Form 990, IRS determination letter
Enforcement Agency & Contact Information
Tennessee Secretary of State, Division of Charitable Solicitation and Gaming (https://sos.tn.gov/charities)
Related Resources
View the full Tennessee formation guide
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