Effective March 2019, § 174-b of the New York Executive Law was amended to add a new requirement that any solicitation by or on behalf of a charitable organization—including any solicitation by a professional fundraiser or professional solicitor—must include a statement of the New York Attorney General’s website address (www.charitiesnys.com) and telephone number ((212) 416-8686) where an individual can receive more information about the charity.
In August 2019, the Attorney General released guidance on the § 174-b disclosure requirements to assist charities in complying with the amended statute. Charitable organizations that are required to register with the Attorney General and file annual financial reports must adhere to the guidelines if they solicit contributions from persons in New York. Note that certain nonprofit organizations (including but not limited to religious organizations, certain educational institutions, and organization’s with contributions totaling less than $25,000 per year) are exempt from the requirements. Read the guidelines here.
The guidelines are not intended to serve as a substitute for legal advice; organizations should always consult legal counsel when planning or conducting any fundraising activity.
-Ahsaki Benion