Lobbying for Nonprofits: Everything You Should Know

As a non-profit organization, lobbying is one of the best avenues to advance your interests—yet many nonprofits shy away from having their voice heard. Leaders often worry lobbying could jeopardize tax-exempt status. The short answer: you are allowed to work with legislative lobbying firms to influence regulations and outcomes at any level of government, provided you do so ethically and within the law. Partnering with an experienced firm in legislative lobbying and regulatory advocacy can help you navigate this landscape.

Table of Contents

  1. Lobbying vs Advocacy: What’s the Difference?
  2. Common Types of Lobbying for Nonprofits
  3. Common Rules for Federal & Local Lobbying
  4. Myths About Lobbying for Nonprofits—Debunked
  5. Wrapping Up

Lobbying vs Advocacy: What’s the Difference?

These two terms are often confused. Advocacy refers to efforts to champion a cause—educating your community and building support—without necessarily targeting a specific law. For a clear primer, see what advocacy is from Johns Hopkins.

Lobbying seeks to influence legislators or relevant policymakers on specific legislation or regulations. For example, a nonprofit may work with a lobbying firm to urge lawmakers to adopt, amend, or abandon a proposal that would significantly impact its mission or operations.

Common Types of Lobbying for Nonprofits

Direct Lobbying

Direct contact with lawmakers or public officials (verbal/written, electronic, calls, or meetings) to request support for or opposition to a specific bill or rule.

Grassroots Lobbying

Influencing public officials indirectly by mobilizing the public or allied organizations—for instance, asking your community to contact their representatives regarding a proposal.

Common Rules for Federal & Local Lobbying

Rules vary by jurisdiction, but at a high level:

  • 501(c)(3) organizations may lobby, but not “too much.” Lobbying should not constitute a “substantial part” of activities. See the IRS overview of exemption requirements for 501(c)(3) organizations.
  • 501(h) election / expenditure test.</stron