In order to protect the public from fraud, most states have enacted laws that require organizations to register with the state before they solicit donations from individuals in that state. The goal is for the public to be able to trust that their donations are going to a legitimate nonprofit organization that will use the money for charitable purposes.
This article explains generally when an organization must register in a state, how to complete the registration process, and what an organization should do when soliciting over the internet. Because each state has its own registration requirements, nonprofit organizations should seek advice from competent attorneys to advise them on their particular situation.