Real‑world examples of general legal disclaimer examples for nonprofits

Examples of general legal disclaimer examples for nonprofits (website & footer)

Most people first encounter a nonprofit’s legal disclaimers in the tiny text at the bottom of a webpage. That little block of copy does a lot of heavy lifting: it sets expectations, limits liability, and signals that your organization takes legal compliance seriously.

Here is a practical example of a general website disclaimer for a U.S. 501(c)(3) organization:

Sample Website Disclaimer
“The information provided on this website is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as legal, financial, medical, or other professional advice. [Organization Name] makes no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, or availability of the content on this site. Any reliance you place on such information is strictly at your own risk. In no event will [Organization Name], its officers, employees, or volunteers be liable for any loss or damage arising out of or in connection with the use of this website.”

Real examples of general legal disclaimer examples for nonprofits usually sit alongside other key notices in the footer: privacy policy, terms of use, copyright notice, and sometimes a short fundraising disclosure. The wording above is intentionally broad, because it may need to cover blog posts, downloadable PDFs, recordings of webinars, and more.

If your nonprofit serves international audiences, you can add a short line clarifying that content is intended for users in a specific country or region, and that laws may differ elsewhere.

Fundraising and donation page examples of general legal disclaimer examples for nonprofits

Online giving has exploded since 2020, and regulators have paid attention. States like New York and California actively enforce charitable solicitation rules, and the IRS continues to scrutinize how nonprofits describe tax‑deductible gifts.

Here is a realistic example of a donation page disclaimer that many nonprofits now use:

Sample Donation & Tax Disclaimer
“Donations to [Organization Name], a nonprofit organization recognized as tax‑exempt under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code (EIN: XX‑XXXXXXX), are tax‑deductible to the extent allowed by law. No goods or services were provided in exchange for this contribution, unless expressly noted in your receipt. This information is provided for general guidance only and does not constitute tax or legal advice. Donors should consult their own tax advisors regarding the tax treatment of their donations.”

Other examples include short state‑specific fundraising disclosures. Many U.S. nonprofits that solicit nationwide now add a compact multi‑state notice, often adapted from guidance like that provided by state charity regulators. While you should get legal help to customize yours, language often looks like this:

“A copy of our latest financial report may be obtained by contacting [Organization Name] at [Address] or by visiting the website of the [state charity regulator]. In certain states, registration does not imply endorsement, approval, or recommendation by the state.”

These examples of general legal disclaimer examples for nonprofits show donors you are being transparent without turning your donation page into a wall of legalese.

For up‑to‑date U.S. rules, many organizations track IRS guidance on charitable contributions at IRS.gov and state requirements via their attorneys or national associations.

Program content examples: health, education, and financial literacy

Nonprofits often create content that can be mistaken for professional advice: health tips, mental health resources, legal information, or money‑management guidance. In 2024–2025, with so much content shared via webinars, social media, and podcasts, clear disclaimers are more important than ever.

Here are three program‑specific examples of general legal disclaimer examples for nonprofits that regularly appear on resource pages and at the start of workshops.

Health and wellness program disclaimer example

If your nonprofit shares health information, you are expected to distinguish between education and medical care. Many organizations model their language on medical‑education sites like Mayo Clinic or NIH, which emphasize that online content does not replace a doctor.

Sample Health Information Disclaimer
“The health‑related information provided by [Organization Name], whether on this website, in printed materials, or during workshops, is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read or heard from [Organization Name]. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.”

This kind of example of a disclaimer aligns with language you see on CDC.gov and similar public‑health sites.

Legal or financial education disclaimer example

Community nonprofits increasingly offer free legal information sessions or financial coaching. They need to be explicit that they are not giving individualized professional advice:

Sample Legal/Financial Education Disclaimer
“Information shared by [Organization Name] in workshops, publications, and online resources is provided for general educational purposes and does not constitute legal, tax, investment, or other professional advice. Participation in our programs does not create an attorney‑client, advisor‑client, or fiduciary relationship. You should consult with a qualified professional who is familiar with your specific situation before making legal or financial decisions.”

Real examples from legal aid nonprofits and university clinics often go a step further and clarify that they do not guarantee representation or outcomes.

Youth, career, and academic guidance disclaimer example

For nonprofits working with students or job‑seekers, it helps to state that results vary and that you cannot promise admissions or employment:

Sample Education & Career Guidance Disclaimer
“Our educational and career resources, including coaching, workshops, and online tools, are intended to provide general guidance only. [Organization Name] does not guarantee admission to any academic institution, receipt of any scholarship, or success in obtaining employment. Outcomes depend on a range of factors beyond our control, including your own efforts and external economic conditions.”

These program‑specific examples of general legal disclaimer examples for nonprofits make it easier for staff and volunteers to speak freely while setting honest expectations.

Data, privacy, and AI content examples for 2024–2025

Nonprofits now handle more data than ever: email lists, donor databases, event registrations, and sometimes sensitive health or immigration information. At the same time, many organizations are experimenting with AI‑generated content. Both trends demand updated disclaimer language.

Data and privacy disclaimer example

Alongside a full privacy policy, many nonprofits add a short data‑handling disclaimer to forms and newsletter sign‑ups:

Sample Data & Privacy Disclaimer
“By submitting this form, you consent to the collection and use of your information by [Organization Name] for the purposes described. We do not sell your personal information. We may share it with trusted service providers who support our operations, subject to confidentiality obligations. For details about how we collect, use, and protect your data, please review our Privacy Policy.”

If your nonprofit receives health‑related data but is not a HIPAA‑covered entity, your disclaimer might clarify that you are not acting as a healthcare provider, and that protections differ from those described on sites like HHS.gov.

AI‑generated content disclaimer example

By 2025, many nonprofits are using AI tools to help draft blog posts, social media content, or translations. That raises a simple but important expectation: tell your audience that content may be machine‑generated and might contain errors.

Sample AI Content Disclaimer
“Some of the information and translations provided by [Organization Name] may be generated or assisted by artificial intelligence tools. While we review content before publication, we cannot guarantee that all information is error‑free or current. The content is provided for general informational purposes only and should not be relied on as professional advice.”

These newer examples of general legal disclaimer examples for nonprofits acknowledge modern tools without scaring people away.

Event, volunteer, and liability waiver examples

Events and in‑person programs add a physical‑world layer of risk: injuries, lost property, and COVID‑19‑related concerns. Nonprofits increasingly use short waivers or event disclaimers on registration forms and tickets.

Event participation disclaimer example

Sample Event Disclaimer
“By registering for and participating in this event, you acknowledge and assume all risks associated with attendance and participation, including travel to and from the event. To the fullest extent permitted by law, you agree that [Organization Name] and its officers, employees, and volunteers shall not be liable for any injury, loss, or damage to you or your property arising from your participation, except where caused by our gross negligence or willful misconduct.”

During and after the COVID‑19 pandemic, many nonprofits added health‑specific lines noting that participants should follow public‑health guidance (often referencing CDC recommendations) and not attend if they feel unwell.

Volunteer activity disclaimer example

Volunteer programs often require more detailed waivers, but even a short website description benefits from a clear disclaimer:

Sample Volunteer Disclaimer
“Volunteer opportunities may involve physical activity, use of tools or equipment, or exposure to outdoor conditions. By volunteering with [Organization Name], you acknowledge that you understand and accept these risks. Volunteers are not employees of [Organization Name] and are not covered by workers’ compensation insurance unless expressly stated otherwise.”

These are not one‑size‑fits‑all, but they are honest, readable examples of general legal disclaimer examples for nonprofits that rely heavily on volunteers and community events.

Storytelling, testimonials, and social media examples

Nonprofits thrive on storytelling: beneficiary profiles, donor spotlights, and impact videos. But stories can accidentally create false expectations or privacy problems.

Testimonial and results‑may‑vary disclaimer example

Sample Testimonial Disclaimer
“Testimonials and stories shared by participants, clients, or donors reflect their personal experiences and may not be representative of typical results. Individual outcomes vary based on many factors. We may edit testimonials for length, clarity, or privacy while maintaining the original meaning.”

This kind of example of a disclaimer is particularly useful for nonprofits offering training, micro‑loans, or entrepreneurship support, where success stories might otherwise sound like guarantees.

Social media and third‑party content disclaimer example

Social platforms blur the line between official and unofficial content. Many nonprofits now add a short social media disclaimer to their website or profile bios:

Sample Social Media Disclaimer
“Content shared by [Organization Name] on social media is for informational and engagement purposes only and does not necessarily reflect official policy positions. We may share or link to third‑party content for convenience, but this does not constitute an endorsement of any views, products, or services. Interactions with us on social media do not create any confidential or client relationship.”

These real examples of general legal disclaimer examples for nonprofits help manage expectations in the fast‑moving, informal world of social platforms.

How to adapt these examples of general legal disclaimer examples for nonprofits

You’ve seen a range of examples — website, fundraising, program content, AI, events, testimonials, and social media. The best examples share a few traits:

• They use plain, direct language instead of dense legal jargon.
• They state what the nonprofit is and is not doing (educating, not giving professional advice; sharing stories, not promising outcomes).
• They point readers to the right next step (talk to your doctor, consult your tax advisor, read the privacy policy).

When adapting these examples of general legal disclaimer examples for nonprofits, keep a few practical points in mind:

• Match your jurisdiction: a U.S. 501(c)(3) disclaimer will differ from a UK charity or an EU‑based NGO. Tax and fundraising language, in particular, must reflect local law.
• Involve your insurance broker: insurers often have preferred language for risk‑heavy activities like construction volunteering or adventure fundraising events.
• Keep things consistent: your website, printed brochures, and registration forms should not contradict each other.
• Review annually: technology, privacy laws, and fundraising trends change fast. Set a calendar reminder to review your disclaimers each year with counsel.

Used well, these real‑world examples of general legal disclaimer examples for nonprofits can help you protect your organization without scaring off the very people you are trying to serve.

FAQ: General legal disclaimer examples for nonprofits

Q1. What are some common examples of general legal disclaimer examples for nonprofits?
Common examples include website information disclaimers, donation and tax disclaimers, health or legal education disclaimers, event participation waivers, testimonial and results‑may‑vary notices, social media disclaimers, and data/privacy statements that sit alongside a full privacy policy.

Q2. Can I copy an example of a nonprofit disclaimer from another organization?
You can review other nonprofits’ public disclaimers for inspiration, but you should not copy them blindly. Another organization’s example may reflect different laws, risks, or insurance requirements. Treat these as templates to discuss with your attorney, not as ready‑made legal documents.

Q3. Do small, all‑volunteer nonprofits really need legal disclaimers?
Yes, even small community groups benefit from basic disclaimers on their websites, donation pages, and event registrations. The language can be shorter and simpler, but setting expectations and clarifying that information is educational only can significantly reduce misunderstandings.

Q4. Are disclaimers legally binding by themselves?
Disclaimers help, but they are not magic shields. Courts look at context: how clear and visible the disclaimer was, whether it was consistent with your behavior, and whether any other laws override it (for example, consumer‑protection or anti‑discrimination laws). Think of these examples of general legal disclaimer examples for nonprofits as one layer in a broader risk‑management strategy.

Q5. How often should nonprofits update their disclaimers?
At minimum, review your disclaimers annually or whenever you launch a new program, expand into a new state or country, change your data‑collection practices, or start using new tools like AI content generators. Laws around privacy, fundraising, and online services have been changing quickly, especially since 2020.

Q6. Where should I put these disclaimer examples on my nonprofit’s site?
Most nonprofits place general disclaimers in the website footer, with more specific versions on donation pages, registration forms, and at the start of online resources or videos. The goal is simple: the more specific the risk, the closer the disclaimer should be to the activity or content in question.