Harry, Meghan's Archewell Foundation is now cleared of 'delinquent' label
What's the story
The Archewell Foundation, a charity organization established by spouses Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, has regained its "in good standing" status in California.
This development was confirmed by the state's attorney general's office on Tuesday.
The Beverly Hills-based charity had previously been labeled "delinquent" due to an unpaid annual filing fee from its initial registration in 2021.
However, it has now resumed its fundraising activities and operations after settling the due payments.
Compliance confirmation
'All necessary paperwork filed without error': Archewell Foundation
A spokesperson for the Archewell Foundation reportedly confirmed the charity's compliance with state regulations.
"We have diligently investigated the situation and can confirm that The Archewell Foundation remains fully compliant and in good standing," they stated.
The representative also clarified, "Due payments were made promptly and in accordance with the IRS's processes and procedures."
"Furthermore, all necessary paperwork had been filed by the Foundation without error or wrongdoing."
What happened earlier?
Issue arose due to non-payment of $200 annual filing fee
The recent update follows a day of speculation regarding the operational status of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex's charity.
Despite previously reporting over $13M in total revenue, questions arose when it appeared that the organization had missed a $200 annual filing fee following its expiration in May 2023.
However, the California Attorney General's findings have resolved the concerns now, clearing Archewell of any "delinquent" status.
Governor's defense
Governor Newsom defended Archewell Foundation's compliance
California Governor Gavin Newsom defended the Archewell Foundation during an unrelated event in the Bay Area.
He described the charity's previous delinquency as a "typical" technical paperwork issue that was "wildly over-hyped."
Further, he reiterated that the situation had been blown out of proportion.
The governor's comments came after it was revealed that the initial check for the filing fee had been lost in the mail but was later resubmitted.
Watchdog's view
'Not ratable': CharityWatch's assessment of Archewell Foundation
Despite the resolution of the filing fee issue, Chicago-based watchdog group CharityWatch has deemed the Archewell Foundation as "not ratable."
According to CEO Laurie Styron, this is due to the foundation's recent establishment and lack of sufficient financial activity.
Styron also pointed out that having only Harry and Markle on the governing body deviates from nonprofit sector norms, which typically require at least five voting board members, with a majority being independent.