Setting up a charity

Check if setting up a charity is right for you and if you are eligible

Everything you need to know and think about when setting up a charity. Check out these resources:

→ GOV.UK

→ NCVO

→ Charity Set Up

→ Resource Centre

Choose your charity structure and write your charity’s purposes

Decide whether to set up a CIC, a charitable company or an unincorporated association or trust. Check out these resources:

→ GOV.UK

→ NCVO

→ Charity Set Up

→ Resource Centre

Create a governing document

The governing document is a set of rules that explains how your charity is run. It needs to include your charity’s structure, name and purposes. Check out these resources:

→ GOV.UK

→ NCVO

→ Charity Set Up

Find your trustees

Trustees are responsible for the operation of your charity. They must show they understand their legal requirements. Check out these resources:

→ GOV.UK

→ NCVO

→ Charity Set Up

Opening a charity bank account

Choosing a bank and opening an account. Check out these resources:

→ Charity Set Up

→ Resource Centre

Register your charity

You must apply to register your charity with the Charity Commission if either:

• its income will be at least £5,000 per year
• it’s a charitable incorporated organisation (CIO)

Register with the Charity Commission

You can register your charity’s details with HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) to get tax back on things like Gift Aid donations.

Register with HMRC