Guidance

Many states produce guidance about regulatory compliance, theft avoidance, and best practices for charities.  While these publications are based on state-specific charity law, much of the guidance can be helpful to any charity.  Below are links to these guides, by state of publication.

NASCO

California

The California Attorney General's Office produced webinars to explain the initial registration process and teach applicants how to cure delinquencies.

Colorado

The Colorado Secretary of State produced a 5-part board training course and self-assessment tool.

Idaho

The Idaho Office of the Attorney General produced a guide for service on an Idaho board of directors.

Minnesota

The Minnesota Attorney General’s Office makes available a number of publications and pamphlets providing information about charitable organizations, charitable trusts, professional fundraisers, and nonprofit organizations generally.

New York

The New York State Office of the Attorney General has numerous guides on all aspects of charitable activities.

Ohio

The Ohio Attorney General’s Charitable Law Section has several handbooks for charities.

Oregon

The Oregon Department of Justice Charitable Activities Section supervises and regulates the activities of charitable organizations in the state.

Pennsylvania

The Charitable Trusts and Organizations Section protects the public’s interest in all property committed to charitable purposes.

Tennessee

The Tennessee Attorney General’s Office, the Tennessee Secretary of State, and the Center for Nonprofit Management in Nashville, Tennessee have jointly produced a guidebook for Tennessee charities.

Vermont

The Vermont Attorney General’s Office has published a guidebook for Vermont charities and a report on professional fundraising in Vermont.

Washington

The Charitable Asset Protection Team (CAPT) of the Consumer Protection Division is charged with ensuring that charitable assets are used for their intended purpose. CAPT consists of attorneys, investigators, and professional staff all tasked with representing the public interest in matters involving public charities, charitable corporations, and charitable trusts.