Poor broad policy environment: Rhode Island ranks 40th in the Broad Policy Environment, reflecting its low economic freedom and weak tax competitiveness.
Heavy regulatory and fee burdens: Ranking 47th in Nonprofit Freedom, charities must register and renew annually, pay high fees and meet significant contractor-related reporting requirements. Charities also face an audit requirement.
Standard UPMIFA protections: In Rhode Island donor intent is protected from modifications for gifts of more than $25,000.
Detailed Scorecard
1. Broad Policy Environment
1A. Occupational Freedom (rescaled 0 to 10)
2.83
1B. Tax Competitiveness (rescaled 0 to 10)
2.80
1C. EFNA (0 to 10)
5.57
2. Nonprofit Freedom
2A. Charitable Startup Regulations
Requires charitable registration?
Yes
Top Registration Fee
$90.00
Minimum Registration Fee
$90.00
Top Incorporation Fee
$35.00
Minimum Incorporation Fee
$35.00
2B. Charitable Reporting Regulations
Requires Annual Report?
Yes
Top Annual Fee
$90.00
Minimum Annual Fee
$90.00
Requires Additional Corporate Filings
Yes
Other Fees
$50.00
Tiered Fee Structure
No
Overlapping Regulators
Yes
2C. Paid Solicitor Requirements
Commercial Fundraisers Must Register with the State
Yes
Paid Solicitor Registration Fee
$240.00
Paid Solicitor Renewal Fee
$240.00
Surety Bond for Professional Fundraisers
$10,000.00
Are Paid Solicitors Required to Report to the State in Order to Start Fundraising?
Yes
Fundraising Consultant Registration Required
Yes
Annual Financial Reporting by Commercial Fundraisers Required
Yes
Must File Contracts Between Charities and Commercial Fundraisers
Yes
Individual Solicitors Employed by Professional Fundraisers Must Register Separately?