Professional Fundraisers
Professional Fundraisers
Professional fundraisers are outside entities who raise money on behalf of charities. These fundraisers must register with the Office of the Attorney General pursuant to Iowa Code Chapter 13C.
What is a professional fundraiser?
A professional fundraiser is a person or outside entity who, for compensation, solicits contributions in Iowa for a charitable organization other than themselves.
Professional fundraiser under Iowa law
“Professional fundraiser” means any person who, for compensation, solicits contributions in Iowa for a charitable organization other than the person.
Included
Outside entities or persons paid to solicit contributions in Iowa for a charitable organization.
Not included
A person whose sole responsibility is mailing fundraising literature; a lawyer, investment counselor, or banker who advises charitable giving; or a bona fide salaried officer, employee, or volunteer of a charitable organization.
Registration applies to professional fundraisers
Note: The registration requirement is only for professional fundraisers. Charitable organizations that do not utilize the services of a professional fundraiser to raise funds are not required to register under this chapter of the Iowa Code. Professional fundraisers must disclose each charity for which they raise funds on the Professional Fundraiser Registration Form, regardless of where the funds are solicited.
Professional fundraiser registration fees
Professional fundraisers must pay an annual registration fee when registering with the Office of the Attorney General.
Annual registration fee
$10.00 per year
Online processing fee
$1.00 processing fee if registration is processed online
Note: Online filing options are listed in the Forms & Filing Options section below.
Charitable organization disclosures & significant changes reporting
Professional fundraisers may be required to file additional disclosures and update information previously submitted to the Office of the Attorney General when fundraising activities or registration information materially changes.
Charitable Organization Disclosure Form
This disclosure form is generally used to identify and disclose charitable organizations for which fundraising activities are being conducted.
Professional fundraisers must disclose each charity for which they solicit contributions, regardless of where the funds are solicited.
Significant Changes Reporting
Updated reporting may be required when significant information changes after registration or disclosure materials have already been submitted.
Examples may include changes involving fundraising campaigns, charity relationships, contact information, or other material registration information.
When reporting may be required
Reporting obligations may apply before, during, or after fundraising activity depending on the nature of the solicitation activity and any changes to previously filed information.
Professional fundraisers should ensure filings remain accurate and current throughout fundraising operations conducted in Iowa.
Important: Filing obligations may vary depending on the structure of the fundraising relationship and the information previously submitted to the Office of the Attorney General. Professional fundraisers should review all registration and disclosure requirements carefully before conducting solicitation activity in Iowa.
Professional fundraiser filing forms
The following forms are available for professional fundraiser registration, charitable organization disclosures, and significant changes reporting. Where available, online filing options allow faster processing and electronic payment.
Professional Fundraiser Registration
Register as a professional fundraiser with the Office of the Attorney General.
Charitable Organization Disclosure
Disclose charitable organizations for which solicitation activity is being conducted.
Significant Changes Reporting
Submit updates involving material changes to previously filed registration information.
Online filing note: A convenience fee may apply to electronic payment transactions submitted through online filing systems.
Professional fundraiser registration contact
Contact the Consumer Protection Division with questions regarding professional fundraiser registration, disclosures, or reporting requirements.
Questions regarding registration, disclosures, or reporting requirements.
Phone & Fax
515-281-5926
888-777-4590
(outside the Des Moines metro area)
Fax: 515-281-6771
Attn: Professional Fundraisers
Office of the Attorney General of Iowa
Consumer Protection Division
Hoover State Office Building
1305 E. Walnut Street
Des Moines, Iowa 50319-0106
