"Solicit" or "solicitation" means any oral or written request, however, communicated, whether directly or indirectly, for a contribution. See T.C.A. §48-101-501(11).
How can I check the status of a charity?
The Tennessee Secretary of State offers an online search of charities. Please note, if you do not locate the organization, please consider the following:
Organization could be exempt from the registration process by statute. Click HERE to learn more.
Organization may file as a $50,000 and Under organization. To search those organizations, please click HERE.
Make sure you are searching under the official legal name of the organization.
How much is the charitable registration fee?
The initial registration fee is $50 dollars. The fee for renewing your registration is based on the following scale:
How are individuals selected to be Administrative Judges?
Administrative Judges are hired through a competitive interview process by the Secretary of State. Open positions for a new Administrative Judge are publicly posted by the Secretary of State’s Human Resources division.
What is a contribution?
“Contributions" means the promise or grant of any money or property of any kind or value, including the payment or promise to pay in consideration of a sale, performance or show of any kind which is advertised or offered in conjunction with the name of any charity. “Contribution” does not include bona fide fees, dues or assessments paid by members; provided, that membership is not conferred solely as consideration for making a contribution in response to a solicitation. See T.C.A. §48-101-501(3).
How much does it cost to renew a Charity's Registration?
Renewal Filing fees are based the gross revenue for the filing period. Late fees are assessed per month.
For Renewal Dates after 7/1/2021:
Gross Revenue Filing Fee
$0 to $50,000 $0.00 *
$50,000.01 to $99,999.99 $10.00
$100,000.00 to $249,999.99 $10.00
$250,000.00 to $499,999.99 $10.00
$500,000 and over $10.00
Late Fees: $10/month
For Renewal Dates on or before 6/30/2021
Gross Revenue Filing Fee
$0 to $50,000 $0.00 *
$50,000.01 to $99,999.99 $120.00
$100,000.00 to $249,999.99 $160.00
$250,000.00 to $499,999.99 $200.00
$500,000 and over $240.00
Late Fees: $25/month
* Based on answers on the renewal form, an organization may qualify for an exemption because they received less than $50,000 in gross contributions from the public. Organizations that qualify for this exemption will not be charged a filing fee for the filing period.
How do I change my business address?
You can file form SS-4800 to change the mailing address by mail or in person. A change in Registered Agent or principal address requires filing Articles of Amendment and paying the statutory $20 filing fee. Forms can be found on our the Forms & Fees page for mail and in person filings.
What are the penalties if an organization violates the Charitable Solicitations Act?
A civil penalties up to $5,000 may be imposed for each and any violation. Further, anyone who willfully and knowingly violates any provision of the Charitable Solicitations Act, or willfully and knowingly gives false or incorrect information in filing statements or reports to the division commits a Class B misdemeanor. A second or subsequent offense is a Class E felony.
Is there a difference between Administrative Judge and Administrative Law Judge or ALJ?
No. The titles Administrative Judge, Administrative Law Judge, and ALJ are used interchangeably.