The Solicitation Act has been amended to eliminate notarization of forms, increase the review and audit thresholds for charities, and allow for cancellation clauses in professional solicitor and counsel contracts. The amended law took effect August 21, 2001. Click here to view the amendments . Please note that the Bureau of Charitable Organizations has moved to the 2nd floor of the North Office Building. The department's Bureau of Charitable Organizations administers the state's charitable solicitation law and maintains registration and financial information on over 6,400 charities soliciting in the Commonwealth.
Most charitable organizations deserve our generous support.
However, there are also many unscrupulous organizations soliciting in Pennsylvania that employ fraudulent or deceptive fundraising tactics to prey upon those who willingly extend a helping hand. Through education, registration and enforcement, the department has encouraged thousands of charitable organizations to come into compliance with state law and register with the bureau. Investigation and audit staff allow the department to conduct detailed financial reviews, conduct investigations and refer findings of fraudulent fundraising schemes to the state Attorney General. There are over 6,400 charitable organizations and 250 professional fundraising counsels and solicitors registered in Pennsylvania. The bureau's operations are fully funded by registration fees and fines that are collected for violations of the Act.