Five Things California Charities Need to Know about Annual Registration Renewal Requirements
Navigating California’s regulatory landscape can be challenging for charitable organizations, especially when it comes to annual registration renewal requirements. Compliance with the rules set by the California Attorney General’s Registry of Charities and Fundraisers is critical to maintaining good standing. Missing deadlines or failing to file required documents can expose charities to penalties, including the loss of state tax-exempt status.
As a California law firm dedicated to advising nonprofits, we understand how complex these obligations can feel. That’s why we’ve outlined five key things every charity should know about annual registration renewal. From deadlines and required forms to common pitfalls and practical tips, this guide is designed to help your organization stay compliant, protect its reputation, and continue serving its mission with confidence.
- Every charity must renew its registration with the California Attorney General’s Registry of Charities and Fundraisers annually by filing Form RRF-1 along with either IRS Form 990/990-EZ/990-PF (except Schedule B) or Form CT-TR-1, as well as paying a renewal registration fee based on the amount of the organization’s total revenue.
- California has extended filing deadline relief for all charities in consideration of the upcoming launch of a new online filing service. As a result, all renewal filings due between January 7, 2025, and April 30, 2026, are now due April 30, 2026.
- Filing deadlines are based on the end date of your organization’s fiscal year. However, if your organization has obtained a filing extension from the IRS, it will also receive a filing extension from the Registry of Charities and Fundraisers.
- You can file your renewal registration in person, by mail, or by using the online renewal system.
- Even if your charity has already made the appropriate filings with the Secretary of State, Franchise Tax Board, and/or the IRS, you still must register initially with the Registry of Charities and Fundraisers and meet annual registration renewal requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How quickly must a charity file an initial registration in California?
An initial filing of Form CT-1 for a charity must occur within 30 days of the receipt of assets for the charitable purpose for which the charity is organized; since this is a very tight deadline, it often leads to late filing, so charities should be aware of this requirement.
Will charity registration requirements trigger an audit of our charity by the state of California?
Not necessarily. However, the California Nonprofit Integrity Act requires annual audits for nonprofit organizations that report total revenue of $2 million or more.
If our charity is planning on dissolving, is it still necessary to file a final Form RRF-1?
Yes, your charity must file a final Form RRF-1, including all required attachments, as scheduled, even if you intend to dissolve the charity.
Can our charity file Form RRF-1 without first registering?
No, if your charity files Form RRF-1 and your charity is not registered with the Registry of Charities and Fundraisers, the Registry will return Form RRF-1 to you along with a Notice to Register. Your charity must first complete the initial registration process before it can file a registration renewal form.
Does our charity have to file Form RRF-1 if it is based in another state?
A charity must file a Form RRF-1 if it solicits, conducts business, or holds charitable assets in California, even if it is based in another state.
If our charity is very small, do we still have to register annually?
Yes, no matter the amount of your charity’s assets or revenue, you must initially register and renew your registration annually with the Registry of Charities and Fundraisers if you are doing business in California.
Safeguard Your Charity’s Future
Compliance isn’t just a legal requirement—it’s the foundation that allows your organization to thrive and inspire trust. California’s nonprofit organization laws can be intricate, but you don’t have to navigate them alone. The California Center for Nonprofit Law is here to provide clear, practical guidance so you can devote your energy to advancing your mission.
Reach out today at (949) 892‑1221, email info@NPOlawyers.com, or connect with us online to ensure your charity remains strong, compliant, and ready to make a lasting impact.