The next U.S. president will be elected in November, and candidates and their supporters are actively fundraising now. You are free to donate to any candidate you wish, but there are rules that affect your financial contributions at work. Know the guidelines for employee political contributions as you support your favorite candidate.
Federal law limits how much an individual can contribute to federal candidates and party committees; those limits are set and updated by the Federal Election Commission. Check current FEC rules before making large donations.
The law also prohibits employers from forcing employees to make political contributions. In past elections, company executives have been accused of pressuring staff to give to corporate political action committees, and such conduct is unlawful.
While many people are passionate about their preferred candidates, using a position of authority to coerce donations crosses a legal line. Employers who pressure workers to contribute may face enforcement actions.
How employers may improperly pressure employees
- Threaten to demote or fire you
- Lower your pay or change your hours
- Insist that you attend or support a fundraiser
Restrictions on contributions
- Donating with the intent to influence federal elections may be regulated
- Being a sole proprietor with a government contract can limit contributions
- Foreign nationals who are not lawful permanent residents generally may not contribute
- Donating more than $100 in cash can trigger reporting and acceptance restrictions
- Making a contribution in someone else's name is prohibited
- Certain entities—such as corporations, national banks, or labor organizations—are restricted from contributing unless they act through a registered political action committee (PAC)
If your employer pressures you to contribute or participates in coercive tactics, file a complaint with the Federal Election Commission or with your state election or labor agency.
Several states also have labor laws that prohibit an employer from pressuring employees to participate in political activities of any kind; protections vary by state.
If you are an employer who wants to support a candidate, you may do so, but document that any fundraising is voluntary and consult an attorney to confirm your planned actions comply with federal and state laws.
Understand the rules about political donations as you support your favorite candidate, and make donations only in compliance with applicable laws and workplace policies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my employer require me to donate to a political campaign?
No. Employers are not allowed to coerce employees into making political contributions; if you are pressured, you can report the conduct to the appropriate enforcement agency.
Are there legal limits on how much I can give to a candidate?
Yes. The Federal Election Commission sets contribution limits and reporting rules for federal races, and those limits change periodically, so check the current FEC guidance.
Can someone who is not a U.S. citizen donate to federal campaigns?
Generally no; foreign nationals who do not have lawful permanent residency are prohibited from contributing to U.S. federal elections.
What should I do if my manager pressures me to support a fundraiser?
Tell the manager that contributions are voluntary, document the request, and report the incident to your HR department or the appropriate enforcement agency if the pressure continues.