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All nonprofits have a vital role to play in our democracy. For 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, that role can include advocacy, lobbying and election-related activities. Building relationships with elected officials is permitted -- and strongly encouraged -- for all of us. The resources on these pages outline the rules on what you can and cannot do as you engage in advocacy.
Building Relationships
Elected officials at the federal, state and local levels will be turning to trusted constituents for advice in the months ahead, but they won't ask for your advice if they don't know you and what your organization does to help their constituents. Building relationships with elected officials and responding to their inquiries is not considered to be lobbying.
Lobbying
Nonprofits have every right to advocate on behalf of policies they believe in. It is only when this advocacy deals with specific legislation that limits come into play. Learn about what is and is not considered lobbying, how much lobbying a public charity can do, special rules for private foundations, and whether an organization that does federal lobbying needs to register with Congress and follow gift rules.
Election Resources
Learn what your organization can do to get involved in elections and how nonprofits are working to help all citizens get engaged.
Challenges to Nonprofit Advocacy
Learn about recent court and legislative challenges to nonprofit advocacy rights.
Advocacy Headlines
Last Updated: March 25, 2009
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