Georgia Solicitor Permits Law: Statewide Soliciting & Door-to-Door Rules (2026)

Key Facts

Statute: O.C.G.A. 43-17-1
Registration Threshold: $25,000 annual contributions
Solicitor Bond: $10,000 required
Filing Authority: Secretary of State

Full Breakdown

The Georgia Charitable Solicitations Act, O.C.G.A. 43-17-1 through 43-17-23, requires charities raising over $25,000 annually and all paid solicitors to register with the Secretary of State before soliciting. Paid solicitors must post a $10,000 bond, file contracts before each campaign, and disclose the percentage going to the charity. Registration is annual with fees of $35 for charities and $250 for paid solicitors. Local door-to-door permits remain valid but cannot waive state registration. Religious organizations and most educational institutions are exempt.

Violations & Penalties

Soliciting without registration is a felony under O.C.G.A. 43-17-12 punishable by up to 5 years imprisonment and $10,000 fine, with civil penalties up to $5,000 per violation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need state registration for a small charity in Georgia?

Charities receiving under $25,000 in annual contributions and using only volunteer fundraisers are exempt from registration, but must still file an annual notice with the Secretary of State.

Are religious solicitations covered by Georgia state law?

Religious organizations soliciting from their members are generally exempt under O.C.G.A. 43-17-9. Door-to-door religious canvassing is also protected but local time/place rules may apply.

Georgia Charitable Solicitations Act Statewide Registration

Key Facts

Full Breakdown

Violations & Penalties

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources

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