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Outline

The process of maintaining compliance with state regulations for charities in Maryland requires the timely submission of the Annual Update of Registration to the Office of the Secretary of State, located in Annapolis, MD. This crucial document, formally known as Form COF-85, ensures that charitable organizations remain in good standing by providing up-to-date information about their operations, financials, and leadership. Organizations must file this form within six months following the end of their fiscal year, including a range of supporting documents such as IRS Form 990, financial audits or reviews for higher-level donations, contracts with professional solicitors or fundraising counsel if applicable, and an updated list of board members with their addresses. The failure to submit the required information not only delays registration but could potentially lead to compliance issues. Furthermore, the form requires the organization to declare any affiliations with Maryland State agencies and includes a scale of fees proportional to the amount of charitable contributions collected. It's an essential step for charities to continue their mission and operations smoothly in the state of Maryland.

Annual Update Of Registration Maryland Sample

INSTRUCTIONS FOR COMPLETING ANNUAL

UPDATE OF REGISTRATION AND FORM:

This form, in addition to the other documents required must be completed and submitted to complete the annual update of registration. An organization’s annual registration is due within 10.5 months after the end of the organization’s fiscal year. There is no need to complete this form if this is the organization’s initial registration. If this is the organization’s initial registration, please complete the form COR-92.

If the organization has not completed its annual registration by the due date 6 months after its fiscal year ends and it has a current registration, it is automatically granted an extension until the 15th day of the 11th month after the end of its most recently completed fiscal year. No extension request (IRS Form 8868) is required. The maximum extension allowed is the same as the maximum extension date for filing your 990 with the IRS. This extension that we grant is for all information due with the annual update of registration filing, not just the 990 or 990-EZ.

Print this form, complete it, and submit it with the other documents required to complete initial registration. Submit the form by mail or e-mail.

The mailing address is: Charitable Organization Division Office of the Secretary of State 16 Francis Street

Annapolis, MD 21401

When emailing the form, email it to: dlcharity_sos@maryland.gov. There is no online payment option. If the organization submits registration documentation via email but owes a fee, it must still mail the payment to us.

Questions? Call us at 410-974-5534 or email us at dlcharity_sos@maryland.gov.

The Secretary of State will review and respond to the organization upon review of its annual registration. If the annual update of registration paperwork is complete, the Secretary of State will send the organization a registration letter. The next due date will be included in the registration letter. If the annual update of registration paperwork is not complete, the Secretary of State will send the organization a letter requesting additional documentation. Letters may be sent to the organization by email, to the email address provided on the organization’s registration.

Checklist for completing the annual update of registration is found on page 2. Instructions for completing the Annual Update of Registration form are found on page 3. Annual Update of Registration form is found on page 4.

Page 1

Checklist to complete Annual Registration:

1.Completed Annual Update of Registration form.

2.A SIGNED COPY of the IRS Form 990, 990-EZ, or 990-PF. If the 990, 990-EZ, or 990-PF is e-filed with the IRS, submit a copy of the IRS E-Signature Authorization form (IRS Form 8879-EO), along with the 990. Charitable organizations are not required to submit Schedule B of the IRS Form 990, 990-EZ, or 990-PF. The Office of the Secretary of State form COF-85 may be filed in lieu of the IRS Form 990, 990-EZ, or 990-PF if your organization is exempt from IRS filing requirements or files the 990-N; ensure the COF-85 is signed if you submit this form.

3.A. If the organization's charitable contributions are at least $300,000, but are less than $750,000 a financial review performed by an independent certified public accountant; OR

B. If the organization's charitable contributions are at least $750,000 an audit performed by an independent certified public accountant.

4.If the charitable organization is affiliated with any Maryland State agency (as described in COMAR 01.02.04.01L) and raised more than $750,000, the organization must submit an Audit and Agreed Upon Procedures Report with the application.

5.A current list of the board of directors for the organization. This list should include the name and address of: (i) each officer, including each principal salaried executive staff officer, and each other person with final responsibility for the custody and final distribution of the charitable contributions made to the charitable organization; or (ii) each person who has custody of the financial records of the charitable organization if the charitable organization does not have a local office in the State. The address may match that of the physical address of the charity.

6.A copy of all contracts with professional solicitors or fund-raising counsel and all subcontracts or other contracts in furtherance of such an agreement under which solicitation is conducted in Maryland.

7.Any changes to the registration or other documents, for example, change to name, address, telephone number, articles of incorporation, bylaws, etc.

8.A check or money order made payable to the Secretary of State in payment of the registration fee. This fee is based on the organization’s level of charitable contributions received in its most recently completed fiscal year. See below chart. Note: For purposes of determining the registration fee and the audit or review requirements, charitable contributions are computed on each form as follows:

a.IRS Form 990: add lines 1(b), 1(c), 1(d), 1(f), 8(a), 9(a) on Part VIII (page 9). If the organization is a PTA, also add line 10(a).

b.IRS Form 990-EZ: add lines 1, 6(a), 6(b) on page 1. If the organization is a PTA, also add line 7(a). If any of the money reported on line 1 of the 990-EZ was received from a government grant or other government money, please notify us of that amount. A government grant or government money is not a charitable contribution.

c.IRS Form 990-PF. Line 1. If any of the money reported on line 1 of the 990-PF was an unsolicited gift or government money, please notify us of that amount. An unsolicited gift or government money is not a charitable contribution.

d.COF-85: add lines 1, 6(a), 7(a) on page 1. If the organization is a PTA, also add 8(a).

Level of Charitable Contributions

Annual Registration Fee

 

 

Less Than $25,000 (see note below)*

$0

 

 

At least $25,000 but less than $50,0001

$50

 

 

At least $50,001 but less than $75,001

$75

 

 

At least $75,001 but less than $100,001

$100

 

 

At least $100,001 but less than $500,001

$200

 

 

$500,001 and above

$300

 

 

Page 2

*A charitable organization that collects less than $25,000 in charitable contributions but uses the services of a Professional Solicitor is required to pay an annual fee of $50.

Instructions for completion of the Annual Update of Registration form:

TO BE CONSIDERED COMPLETE, AN ANSWER MUST BE PROVIDED FOR ALL ITEMS ON THE FORM.

1.If a registration fee is required, enter the fee submitted with this form. If unsure of the organization’s registration fee, refer to the table at the end of the checklist.

2.Enter the organization’s EIN (Federal Tax Identification Number).

3.Provide the fiscal year end that is being reported with this filing. The fiscal year end that is provided on this form should match the fiscal year end on the 990, 990-EZ or COF-85 that is submitted as part of this annual update of registration

4.Enter the name of the charitable organization. This name should match the name on the organization’s IRS Tax Determination Letter and current Articles of Incorporation.

5.If the organization does business under any other names, please list them in the space provided.

6.Provide the mailing address of the charity. This is the address to which we will mail all documentation regarding the organization’s registration with this office. This address should include the street address, unit number if applicable, city, state, and zip code.

7.Provide the physical address of the charity. The physical address is the actual location at which the organization’s primary place of business is located. This cannot be a P.O. Box.

8.Enter the organization’s phone number. This should be a phone number that we can call to speak with someone about a registration issue.

9.Enter the County in which the organization is located.

10.Enter the organization’s email address. This should be an email address that we can send an email to about a registration issue. Be sure that this email address is one that is actually checked and answered by someone at the organization.

11.If the organization has contracts/fundraising agreements with a Professional Solicitor check “yes”. If not, check “no”. Do the same for Fund-raising counsel. Answer “yes” if the company solicits contributions on the organization’s behalf in Maryland or advises about a solicitation that will occur in Maryland.

12.Check the appropriate box to answer whether or not the organization is affiliated with a Maryland State agency. “Organization affiliated with a State agency” means a charitable organization which engages in activities for the benefit of the State agency or to further the purposes of the State agency, or both, through the use of contributions solicited from the public. If answering “yes,” list the names of the agencies with which it is affiliated. If answering “yes” and the organization raised more than $750,000 in charitable contributions, it must also submit an Agreed Upon Procedures Report with its initial registration. See what is required in an Agreed Upon Procedures Report at the Division of State Documents website.

13.By signing this form, the organization is certifying that it has attached all required documentation.

Page 3

Affidavit section: This form must be signed by the chairman, president, or other principal officer. Remember to sign the Annual Update of Registration form and print the name of the person signing the document along with their position with the charity. Also, note the date this document was signed.

Page 4

 

Annual Update of Registration Form

 

ALL ITEMS ON THIS FORM MUST BE COMPLETED

 

Office of the Secretary of State, 16 Francis Street, Annapolis MD 21401 Telephone: 410-974-5534

1.

Fee submitted: $_________

2. EIN:

 

 

3.

Fiscal year end being reported: __________Month __________Year

4.Name of Charitable Organization: __________________________________________________

5.If name under which solicitation is made is different from above, indicate here:

______________________________________________________________________________

6.Mailing address of charity:____________________________________________________________

7.Physical address of charity:___________________________________________________________

8. Telephone Number: _____________________

9. County:

10.E-mail address: ______________________________

11.Does your organization engage or have a contract with a professional solicitor or fund- raising counsel? If yes, please attach a copy of the contract(s). In order to process your organization's application, you must respond to this question.

Professional Solicitor:

Yes

No

Fund-raising Counsel:

Yes

No

12.Is your organization affiliated with any Maryland State agency (as defined in COMAR 01.02.04.01L)?

YesNo (If yes, and raised more than $750,000 you must submit an Audit and Agreed upon Procedures Report with application)

If yes, list the name(s) of the Maryland State agencies of which you are affiliated (use a separate sheet of paper, if needed): _______________________________

13. I have attached all forms required in the instructions.

I hereby certify that this registration statement and all supporting documents are true to the best of my knowledge, and the IRS Form 990, IRS Form 990-EZ, or IRS Form 990-PF for the above noted fiscal year submitted to the Office of the Secretary of State under section 6-408 of the Business Regulation Article of the Annotated Code of Maryland is a copy of the form submitted to the Internal Revenue Service.

 

 

 

 

Signature of the President, Chairman or other Principal Officer

Date

 

 

 

 

 

Print or Type Name of President, Chairman, or Principal Officer

Title

 

File Breakdown

Fact Number Fact Name Description
1 Submission Deadline Organizations must file the update within six months of the end of their fiscal year.
2 Required Documents for Submission The form must be accompanied by a signed IRS Form 990 or Form COF-85, financial reviews or audits for certain contribution levels, an updated board of directors list, fundraising agreements, any registration changes, and the update registration fee.
3 Governing Law The requirement is under §6-408 of the Business Regulation Article of the Annotated Code of Maryland.
4 Engagement with Professional Solicitor or Fund-raising Counsel Organizations must disclose any such engagements and provide copies of contracts.
5 Affiliation with Maryland State Agencies If affiliated and raised more than $100,000, an Audit and Agreed upon Procedures Report must be submitted.
6 Calculation of Charitable Contributions Charitable contributions are calculated based on specific lines from IRS Form 990 or Form 990-EZ, or COF-85 for PTA's with additional specified lines.
7 Registration Fee Scale Fees range from $0 for contributions less than $25,000 to $200 for contributions of $100,001 and above. Organizations raising less than $25,000 but employing professional solicitors must pay $50.
8 Certification Requirement Failing to certify the registration statement and supporting documents can delay the registration process.

Steps to Filling Out Annual Update Of Registration Maryland

Filling out the Annual Update of Registration form for Maryland is a crucial step for charities to maintain their registration status with the state. This process ensures that all information is current and allows the organization to continue operating legally within Maryland. To complete this form correctly, follow the steps listed below. It's important to gather all necessary documents before you begin, to ensure a smooth and efficient process.

  1. Start by entering the full name of your charity in the space provided.
  2. Fill in the street address, including city, state, and ZIP code, for the charity's primary location.
  3. Provide the charity’s main telephone number, along with a FAX number if available.
  4. Enter a recommended e-mail address for the charity. This is important for efficient communication.
  5. Indicate whether your organization works with a professional solicitor or fundraising counsel by checking the appropriate box. If you select "Yes," remember to attach a copy of the contract(s).
  6. Answer whether your organization is affiliated with any Maryland State agency by marking "Yes" or "None." If yes, and your organization raised more than $100,000, you are required to submit an Audit and Agreed upon Procedures Report with your application. List the name(s) of any affiliated agencies, using an additional sheet if needed.
  7. Attach a signed copy of your IRS Form 990. If exempt from IRS filing requirements, submit the Office of the Secretary of State's Form COF-85 or the 990-N Form. If your IRS Form 990 is incomplete, include an approved IRS Form 8868.
  8. If your charitable contributions are between $200,000 and $500,000, attach a financial review conducted by an independent certified public accountant. If contributions are at least $500,000, attach an audit performed by an independent certified public accountant instead.
  9. Include an updated list of names and addresses (home or alternative business, not P.O. Box) of the board of directors. If this list is already included in the IRS Form 990, a separate submission is not necessary.
  10. Attach copies of all fundraising agreements if your organization uses independent contractors or subcontractors for soliciting charitable contributions in Maryland.
  11. List any changes to the registration or other documents, such as changes to the organization's name, address, telephone number, or articles of incorporation.
  12. Prepare a check or money order for the update registration fee, payable to the Secretary of State. The amount depends on the level of charitable contributions your organization has received.
  13. Finally, sign the certification at the bottom of the form to confirm that all information is accurate to the best of your knowledge. Include the title of the person filling out the form, such as Chairman, President, or Principal Officer, along with their signature and the date.

After completing these steps, review the form to ensure all information is correct and that all required documents are attached. Submitting complete and accurate information helps avoid delays in your registration. Once the form and all attachments are ready, mail them to the Office of the Secretary of State at the address provided on the form. This annual update is an important responsibility that helps maintain your charity's compliance with Maryland state regulations.

More About Annual Update Of Registration Maryland

What is the purpose of the Annual Update of Registration in Maryland?

The Annual Update of Registration is a requirement for charitable organizations operating in Maryland to ensure their information is current with the Office of the Secretary of State. This process, which must be completed within six months after the end of an organization's fiscal year, aids in maintaining the transparency and accountability of charitable entities in the state. By filing this update, organizations provide necessary documentation regarding their financial activities, board members, and operational changes, thereby adhering to state regulations and ensuring continued eligibility for receiving charitable contributions.

Who needs to file the Annual Update of Registration?

All charitable organizations registered in the state of Maryland are required to file the Annual Update of Registration. Specifically, this includes organizations that engage with professional solicitors or fundraising counsel, are affiliated with any Maryland State agency, and/or solicit charitable contributions within the state. Whether an organization operates on a large or small scale, as long as it receives charitable contributions, it must comply with this annual filing mandate to maintain its registration and good standing within the state.

What documents are required for the Annual Update of Registration?

To complete the Annual Update of Registration, organizations are required to submit several key documents:

  1. A completed and signed IRS Form 990, or Form COF-85 as an alternative for those exempt from IRS filing requirements or filing the 990-N Form. If the IRS Form 990 is incomplete, an approved IRS Form 8868 must be submitted.
  2. A financial review by an independent certified public accountant if charitable contributions are between $200,000 and $500,000; or an audit if contributions are at least $500,000.
  3. An updated list of the names and addresses of the board of directors. This should include their home or alternative business addresses, not associated with the charitable organization or a PO Box.
  4. Copies of all fundraising agreements if the organization engages independent contractors or subcontractors for solicitation activities in Maryland.
  5. Any changes to the registration or other documents, such as changes to the name, address, telephone number, articles of incorporation, etc.
Additionally, a check or money order for the registration update fee, based on the organization's level of charitable contributions, must be included.

What is the deadline for filing the Annual Update of Registration?

The Annual Update of Registration must be filed within six months following the end of a charitable organization's fiscal year. Failing to meet this deadline can result in a delay in the registration process, potentially impacting the organization’s ability to legally solicit and receive charitable contributions within Maryland.

How is the registration update fee determined?

The registration update fee is determined based on the level of charitable contributions received by an organization. Here’s a brief overview of the fee structure:

  • Less than $25,000 in contributions: $0 (note: $50 if using a professional solicitor)
  • At least $25,000 but less than $50,001: $50
  • At least $50,001 but less than $75,001: $75
  • At least $75,001 but less than $100,001: $100
  • $100,001 and above: $200
This fee must accompany the submitted documents to complete the registration update process.

What happens if an organization fails to submit the required information or fee?

If an organization does not submit the required documentation or update fee, it will face a delay in its registration. This delay can prevent the organization from being in good standing with the state, potentially affecting its ability to solicit and receive charitable contributions legally in Maryland. It's crucial for charitable organizations to adhere to these requirements to ensure continuous compliance with state regulations.

Where can additional information or assistance be found?

For more information or assistance with the Annual Update of Registration, charitable organizations can visit the Office of the Secretary of State's website or contact the office directly at (410)974-5534. Further assistance can also be sought via email, making the process of obtaining clarification or resolving issues more accessible for organizations striving to comply with Maryland's regulatory requirements.

Common mistakes

Filling out the Annual Update of Registration form for Maryland requires attention to detail. Here are nine common mistakes people make on this form:

  1. Not updating the organization's contact information, such as the telephone number, FAX, or e-mail. Keeping contact information current ensures the organization can be reached for any clarifications or additional information.
  2. Failure to attach a copy of the contract when the organization engages with a professional solicitor or fundraising counsel. This oversight can delay the registration process as these contracts are essential for compliance review.
  3. Overlooking the question about affiliation with any Maryland State agency. This affiliation could necessitate additional documents, such as an Audit and Agreed upon Procedures Report, especially if the organization raised more than $100,000.
  4. Submitting an incomplete IRS Form 990 without the approved IRS Form 8868, which is a request for an extension of the filing deadline. Timely and complete submissions are critical for compliance and maintaining good standing.
  5. Not providing an updated list of board members' names and addresses. An updated list ensures that all records are current, reflecting any changes in the board's composition.
  6. Forgetting to include copies of all fundraising agreements when the organization has one or more independent contractors or subcontractors soliciting charitable contributions in Maryland. This documentation is crucial for a transparent account of the organization's fundraising activities.
  7. Omitting changes to the registration or other documents, such as changes to the name, address, telephone number, or articles of incorporation. Updating these details is essential for accurate records and compliance.
  8. Incorrect calculation of the annual registration fee. The fee is based on the organization's level of charitable contributions, and errors in calculation can result in underpayment or overpayment.

    • A common mistake is not adding the correct lines from the IRS Form 990 or the COF-85 form to determine the exact amount of charitable contributions.
    • Overlooking the special note that organizations collecting less than $25,000 in charitable contributions but using the services of a professional solicitor must still pay an annual fee of $50.
  9. Failure to sign the certification at the end of the form. This signature certifies that the information provided is true to the best of the preparer's knowledge. A missing signature can significantly delay the registration process.

By avoiding these common mistakes, organizations can ensure a smoother registration update process with the Maryland Secretary of State. It’s about maintaining compliance, ensuring transparency, and upholding the trust of those who support and benefit from your organization's work.

Documents used along the form

For organizations operating within Maryland, the filing of the Annual Update of Registration form with the Office of the Secretary of State is a critical compliance step. This process, however, involves more than just completing one form. Several other documents are often required to ensure a comprehensive update of an organization’s registration. These documents play pivotal roles in providing a full financial and operational overview of the charitable organization to regulatory authorities.

  • IRS Form 990 or Form 990-EZ: This form is a crucial document for most nonprofit organizations, providing detailed information about their financial activities, governance, and compliance with tax regulations. It serves as a public disclosure tool, offering transparency about the organization's operations to both the government and interested members of the public.
  • Financial Review or Audit Reports: Depending on their level of charitable contributions, organizations may need to submit a financial review performed by an independent certified public accountant if contributions are between $200,000 and $500,000, or an audit report for contributions of $500,000 or more. These documents verify the financial integrity and accountability of the organization.
  • List of Directors: An updated list of the board of directors, including their home or alternative business addresses, is required. This ensures that all responsible parties are accurately documented and can be contacted if necessary. The list supports transparency and accountability within the organization’s governance structure.
  • Fundraising Agreements: For organizations that engage independent contractors or subcontractors to solicit contributions in Maryland, a copy of all fundraising agreements must be submitted. This documentation provides clarity on the terms and the nature of the arrangement, ensuring compliance with fundraising regulations.

The combination of these documents with the Annual Update of Registration form allows the Maryland Secretary of State to maintain a current and comprehensive registry of charitable organizations. Together, they facilitate oversight, promote transparency, and uphold the integrity of charitable activities within the state. It’s essential for organizations to accurately complete and timely submit these forms and documents to avoid potential delays in their registration or other compliance issues.

Similar forms

The Annual Update of Registration Maryland form is crucial for charities operating within the state. This document, filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, ensures that charities maintain their compliance with state regulations. Its importance and the information it gathers can be likened to several other key documents within the realm of regulatory compliance and financial disclosure.

Firstly, this form shares similarities with the IRS Form 990, a document that nonprofit organizations are required to submit to the Internal Revenue Service. Both documents require detailed financial information, including income sources, amounts, and expenditures, thereby providing a snapshot of the organization's financial health and operations. The emphasis on transparency and accountability is a common thread, ensuring that current and potential donors can trust in the proper use of charitable funds. While the IRS Form footer focuses on federal tax compliance, the Maryland form addresses state-level registration and oversight, making them complementary components of a broader regulatory framework.

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Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the Annual Update of Registration form for Maryland, there are specific steps you should follow to ensure a trouble-free process. Adhering to these guidelines can help avoid common errors and delays in updating your organization's registration. Below is a compiled list of dos and don'ts to consider:

  • Do ensure that all the information provided on the form is accurate and up-to-date. This includes the name, address, contact details, and the list of board directors.
  • Do include a signed copy of the IRS Form 990 or the Office of the Secretary of State's Form COF-85, especially if your organization is exempt from IRS filing requirements.
  • Do attach a copy of all fundraising agreements if your organization has engaged independent contractors or subcontractors to solicit charitable contributions in Maryland.
  • Do include a check or money order for the update registration fee, calculated based on the level of charitable contributions received over the fiscal year.
  • Do provide an updated list of the names and addresses of the board of directors, ensuring that these are not PO Boxes or the charity’s address for compliance.
  • Do submit any requested supporting documents, such as the Audit and Agreed upon Procedures Report if your organization is affiliated with any Maryland State agency and raised more than $100,000.
  • Do answer all questions on the form accurately, including details about affiliations with state agencies and engagement with professional solicitors or fundraising counsel.
  • Don’t leave any section incomplete. Unanswered questions or incomplete sections can result in delays.
  • Don’t use outdated forms. Always download the latest version of Form COF-85 from the Office of the Secretary of State’s website to ensure compliance.
  • Don’t forget to sign the form. A missing signature from the preparer or the organization’s officer can invalidate the submission.
  • Don’t submit incorrect payment amounts. Review the chart provided for the level of charitable contributions to ensure the correct fee is included.
  • Don’t neglect to include changes to your registration or other documents, such as amendments to your organization's name, address, or articles of incorporation.
  • omit necessary supporting documents, including a financial review or an audit, depending on your organization’s level of charitable contributions.
  • Don’t delay your submission beyond the six-month deadline following the end of your fiscal year, as this can lead to penalties and/or registration issues.

Misconceptions

Understanding the Annual Update of Registration process for charities in Maryland involves navigating through some common misconceptions. Here are six of the most frequent misunderstandings:

  • Misconception 1: Only charities that hire professional solicitors need to file the Annual Update of Registration. In reality, all charities operating in Maryland are required to file an Annual Update of Registration with the Office of the Secretary of State within six months of the end of their fiscal year, regardless of whether they engage professional solicitors.
  • Misconception 2: The registration update process is optional. Some may think that updating their charity’s registration with the state is a voluntary action. However, failing to file the required update can lead to delays in the organization’s registration, affecting its legal standing and ability to operate.
  • Misconception 3: The fee for updating the registration is the same for all charities. The truth is, the fee varies depending on the level of charitable contributions the organization receives. It ranges from $0 for organizations with less than $25,000 in contributions to $200 for those with $100,001 and above. Additionally, charities collecting less than $25,000 but using professional solicitors must still pay a $50 fee.
  • Misconception 4: Any financial documentation is acceptable for the update. The specifics matter when submitting financial documents with your update. For instance, if charitable contributions are between $200,000 and $500,000, a financial review by an independent certified public accountant is required. For contributions of $500,000 or more, an audit is necessary.
  • Misconception 5: Only the IRS Form 990 is needed for the update. While most organizations will submit a signed copy of the IRS Form 990, there are alternatives and additional requirements to be aware of. If exempt from IRS filing requirements, the Form COF-85 can be filed instead. Moreover, if an organization's IRS Form 990 is incomplete, an approved IRS Form 8868 requesting an extension to file the Form 990 must be submitted.
  • Misconception 6: The list of board directors can be a P.O. Box address. When updating the registration, an up-to-date list of the names and home or alternative business addresses of the board of directors must be provided. It is specifically noted that these cannot be the same address as the charitable organization or a P.O. Box, ensuring transparency and accountability.

Clearing up these misconceptions is crucial for any charity in Maryland to stay compliant and maintain its good standing. Careful attention to the specific requirements will help ensure a smooth and successful update process.

Key takeaways

Filing the Annual Update of Registration with the Maryland Secretary of State is a critical process for charities operating within the state. Here are some key takeaways to ensure that your organization remains in good standing and continues to thrive in its charitable missions:

  • Organizations must file the update within six months of the end of their fiscal year, highlighting the importance of timely compliance to avoid penalties.
  • Completing and submitting the required form along with the listed documents is necessary for the update. Failure to do so will delay your registration process.
  • Status check on engaging with a professional solicitor or fundraising counsel is mandatory. If applicable, attaching a copy of the contract(s) is required.
  • The necessity of disclosing any affiliation with Maryland State agencies demonstrates the state’s intent to maintain transparency in charitable activities.
  • Submission of a signed copy of an IRS Form 990 or the state's Form COF-85 is pivotal, underscoring the seamless integration of federal compliance within the state’s regulatory framework.
  • The obligation to submit additional documentation, such as financial reviews or audits based on the level of charitable contributions, signifies the state’s effort to ensure financial transparency and accountability.
  • The update process requires a current list of the board of directors’ addresses, ensuring clear and direct channels of communication.
  • Inclusion of any fundraising agreements highlights the state’s commitment to overseeing the ethical collection of charitable contributions.
  • The sliding scale for the registration fee, based on the level of charitable contributions, demonstrates the state’s recognition of varying organizational sizes and capacities.

Remember, adhering to these requirements not only helps in aligning with the state’s legal framework but also reinforces the integrity and trustworthiness of your organization in the public eye. Ensure all information is accurate and complete before submission to facilitate a smooth update process.

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