Can I solicit donations

[Georgeo57]

I'd like to start a website that promotes happiness increase research. I don't want to go through the hassles of starting a non-profit organization, or even an unincorporated nonprofit organization.

I notice that baldrick@dvdrhelp.com accepts donations, and was wondering if I could just set up my site and ask people to contribute. My only expenses would be about $25 per month for web hosting and about $25 per month for long distance phone service.

Are there any laws or regulations about this?

Thanks.

[Conquest10]

Of course you can. What do you think the homeless do?

[lordsmurf]

You will get in trouble if you misrepresent yourself. That's about it.

[mrtristan]

As long as you make less than x amount per year, you should have no problems with the IRS, which is pretty much the agency you need to worry about when it comes to money. I doubt people will donate enough to put you over the limit, so you should be okay.

Just in case, I would do a quick check at the IRS's website to see exactly what the amount is. I think it's between $700-$1,000 a year, but I'm not sure.

Your local or state laws might also restrict donations, so it's safer to check at city hall. I doubt anyone will even care, but it's always good to check, when dealing with money. Especially if you're going to be publicly soliciting donations.

[fmctm1sw]

promotes happiness increase research.

Promotes what? "Happiness increase?" I'm an easy one. Float me $3.50 for a six pack of Old Milwaukee and I'm