I love Ohio registration for its simplicity and generosity.  They accept the Unified Registration Statement, and that’s a big help.  Many states do.  But they go further to make it easy.  Ohio doesn’t require its own financial disclosure form.  They accept your IRS form 990 or 990EZ.  Plus, their fees are based on your nonprofit’s fundraising revenue in Ohio.  That’s quite rare (Oregon does that too), and I think it’s the most appropriate fee structure.  Each state’s interest is what your activities are in that state.  Bravi Ohio!

Some states have a two- or three-step registration process.  California is one of these.  You qualify to do business with the Secretary of State.  Using documentation you get from that office, you apply for tax exemption from the Franchise Tax Board.  In addition, you must register with the Attorney General.

Georgia is a tough one.  To register there, you have to submit a Control Persons form for every person who directly or indirectly manages your nonprofit.  That’s essentially every officer–and board member.  The form requires disclosure of each person’s birthdate and social security number.  Then it gets notarized.  If you can, the best way to get this from board members is at one of their meetings.  Pass the forms out, collect, and have someone to notarize them.  Before the meeting, advise each to bring a 10-year work history.  That’s also required.

In some states, registration exemption means you’re finished.  You have nothing more to do and can move on.  In others, you must apply for exemption and be approved by state authorities.