Can I use social media to fundraise in Mississippi? What are the requirements?

Fundraising on Social Media in Mississippi

Mississippi law does not have specific regulations on fundraising through social media. However, if the fundraising is for a charitable purpose or organization, it may be subject to the state’s charitable solicitation laws.

According to Mississippi Code Ann. Section 79-11-501(d), a contribution means the promise or grant of any money or property of any kind or value, including the promise to pay. Payment by members of an organization for fees, dues, fines, or assessments are not considered contributions.

If the fundraising is for a charitable purpose or organization, the organization may need to register with the Mississippi Secretary of State and file annual financial reports. The financial report requirements depend on the amount of monetary donations received.

• If the charity received more than $250,000 but less than $750,000 in monetary donations (government grants are excluded from this calculation), a reviewed financial statement will be needed.
• If the charity received more than $750,000 in monetary donations (government grants are excluded from this calculation), or the charity’s fundraising functions are not performed solely by persons who are unpaid for such services, an audited financial statement using cash basis measurement only is required.

Jurisdiction

Mississippi

• General