Filing Your California Nonprofit’s Initial Registration Form


An Initial Registration Form is a document that nonprofits must submit to the California Attorney General's Registry of Charitable Trusts shortly after formation. This important legal document, also known as California Form CT-1, ensures that your nonprofit is in compliance with the California Supervision of Trustees and Fundraisers for Charitable Purposes Act. 

While it is possible to form a California nonprofit on your own, consulting with an attorney or legal professional experienced in nonprofit law is advisable to ensure compliance with all relevant requirements.


The expert attorneys at Ambika Law, PC are ready to help.


Submitting California Form CT-1

Close-up of a person writing a checklist in a notebook with a grid pattern, using a pen. The checklist includes several items with checkboxes, some are checked, others are not.

Completing an Initial Registration Form ensures your nonprofit is compliant with state regulatory requirements and helps establish a foundation of transparency and trustworthiness with the public. California Form CT-1 provides the state with essential information about your nonprofit, its finances, and its operations. This form, and the subsequent annual filings, allow potential donors and stakeholders to verify that the nonprofit is managed appropriately and that its financial activities align with its stated charitable purposes. 

To complete California Form CT-1, take the following steps:

Your nonprofit’s registration must be renewed annually and must be filed within 30 days after receipt of assets. Because crafting this legal document can be complex, we highly recommend working with an attorney experienced in California nonprofit law to ensure this step is completed correctly and efficiently.



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