Frequently Asked Questions

Data Related Questions:

What kinds of data does Transparency USA offer?

  • We offer lists of state-level donors, candidates, officeholders, and political action in the 12 states we cover — Arizona, California, Florida, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Texas, Virginia, and Wisconsin. 
  • We offer lists of contributions and expenditures made by the state-level candidates, officeholders, and political action committees listed above. 
  • Data will include each transaction, as well as summary, roll-up numbers.
  • Detailed information on individual transactions can also be provided.

What if I don’t see a politician or PAC I’m looking for?

At Transparency USA, we focus on providing answers about money in state-level politics. Generally speaking, if a candidate,  officer holder, or PAC is active or works in your state capital, they should be in our database. If they work in D.C., try searching for their campaign finance at www.fec.gov

If you still don’t find something you’re looking for, please reach out to us. We’re happy to help!

What about a category or subset of data I don’t see?

There are categories and subsets of campaign finance data available but not displayed on our site. We’d love to help you with your project. Complete our Data Sales Form, and we’ll do our best to fulfill your request.

How can I use your data?

Our data has been used for research, scholarly papers, investigative reporting, and simply by citizens looking for more information prior to casting their vote. 

Legal uses of our data vary by state. Always consult an attorney licensed in your state for specific information on appropriate data applications.

How can I get your data?

We can deliver data via CVS, JSON, or API access.

What if I want a transaction(s) removed from my page?

At Transparency USA, we display campaign finance information that candidates, officeholders, and PACs have been required by law to submit to a state agency. We cannot change individual transactions unless they have been first changed in the official reports filed or amended with the state agency. If you believe a transaction has been reported incorrectly, please contact the candidate or PAC directly. 

What if I find an error on your site?

If you find a mistake, please let us know! We strive to have the most accurate data available, but with many millions of transactions and entities represented on our site, it’s inevitable that we’ll have the occasional error. Contact us and we’ll fix it as quickly as possible.

Claim Your Page Questions:

How much does it cost?

Becoming verified is free!

What does a Transparency USA verification mean? 

Verification means that the entity — candidate, officeholder, or political action committee —  has confirmed that the accounts we display on their page are the correct accounts.

Can I customize my page?

Yes! Transparency USA offers the opportunity to customize your page. Add a profile picture or logo, a brief bio, a link to your website, and even a link to your donation page. 

How much does it cost to customize your page?

$145 per calendar year.