To perform a fundraising campaign for a charitable cause, you don't always need to be registered by 501(c)(3). Even if you can accept donations without being a nonprofit, all you need is a valid reason. There are additional ways to accept donations without being a nonprofit, aside from the tax exemption.
The IRS sets out legitimate charitable purposes, such as religious, scientific, or community benefit. To qualify to accept 501(c)(3) donations, your nonprofit must have already demonstrated one of those purposes. It is important that contributions to your 501(c)(3) further that purpose.
A charitable organization is always able to solicit for public donations, but the caveat is that while you don't need a 501(c)(3) tax exempt status to take donations, you DO need this for a donor to receive a tax deduction for their donation.
Charitable organizations that solicit funds in or from Georgia must register with the Secretary of State unless they are exempt from registration as set forth in the Charitable Solicitations Act. Please refer to O.G.C.A. § 43-17-9 to see if your organization is exempt from registration.
In the state of Georgia, a property can be considered abandoned if the owner can't be identified or doesn't respond to delivery of certified mail within 90 days. It's important to keep in mind that a property owner cannot reclaim abandoned property that has been adversely claimed.
California: Businesses soliciting donations in California must register with the Attorney General's Registry of Charitable Trusts and comply with disclosure requirements.
How to Start a Nonprofit in Georgia Name Your Organization. Recruit Incorporators and Initial Directors. Appoint a Registered Agent. Prepare and File Articles of Incorporation. Publish Incorporation. File Initial Report. Obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) ... Store Nonprofit Records.