Professional Solicitor and Fundraising Counsel Registration

Nonprofit organizations sometimes hire consultants or professional solicitors to handle their fundraising activities.

In most situations, Ohio requires these professionals to register with the Attorney General's Office before starting any fundraising work.

All professional solicitors are required to file a surety bond in their registration materials, which must be filed by March 31 each year. Prior to fundraising they also must submit to this office a solicitation notice and a copy of their contract, which outlines how the funds raised will be divided between the organization and the fundraiser.

Within 90 days of the conclusion of the campaign, or annually if the campaign extends beyond one year, a report must be filed documenting the amount raised and how much went to the nonprofit versus how much was spent on fundraising. This information is included in an annual report on professional solicitation, which is a helpful tool for donors as they consider what organizations they wish to support. The information is also helpful for charities considering hiring solicitors.

Solicitors are required to share specific information with potential donors and are not allowed to use deceptive tactics in asking for gifts. Consumers need to develop wise giving strategies to avoid being victimized by charitable solicitation scams.

Consumers who receive questionable solicitations should contact the Attorney General's Office at (800) 282-0515 or through the online complaint system.