Charity registration

OK Charity is a legal entity working in partnership with the Accountants, Auditors and Consultants to help you find the right solution to set up your charity in the UK.

We can help you set up the charity from Start to Finish. Fill in the contact form to talk to our consultant for a free no obligation call.

    By submitting your details on this form, you are agreeing to our Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy, an expert will contact you to assist you with your enquiry. Throughout the process, you could be contacted via phone, SMS, email and/or post..

    Some facts about the charities.

    UK has just over 168,000 charities registered until 2020.

    Incorporating Your charity

    Our strength lies in our experience supporting grassroots charities and we can support you to register your charity.

    We offer 24-hour service to people, and organisations interested in registering a charity and obtaining a charity number in the UK.

    We can also help you fundraise, strengthen your team, and improve your digital footprint.

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

    We have compiled a list of the Frequently Asked Questions which will help you understand the charity registration process and the services we offer.

    What are the types of charities and what’s best for me?

    In the UK, there are several types of charities that can be registered for legal and tax purposes, including:

    • Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO) - a legal structure specifically designed for charities, allowing them to have their own legal identity separate from their trustees.
    • Charitable Trust - a legal structure where a group of trustees holds and manages property for a charitable purpose.
    • Unincorporated Association - a group of individuals who come together for a common purpose, but do not have a separate legal identity.
    • Community Interest Company (CIC) -- a type of limited company designed for social enterprises and organisations that want to use their profits and assets for the public good.
    • Company Limited by Guarantee - a type of limited company often used by organisations that do not have shareholders, such as charities and clubs.
    • Charitable Company - a type of company limited by guarantee that is also a registered charity.
    • Royal Charter - a type of incorporation granted by the Crown, typically used by large, national charities or professional bodies.

    What are your fees for the charity registration services and what does it include?

    We charge £1,000 to help you register your charity with the charity commission, which includes the preparation and submission of various documents including the application form, the charity’s governing document, the trustee declaration form and all/any other relevant documents required for the purpose of the formation of charity at all stages up to the registration of the charity.

    What information/ documents do I need before registering the charity?

    In order to register a charity in the UK, you should know about the Name, Purpose of Charity and Work it will conduct, the place, Business Plan and the information about the Trustee. We can, however, help in any area you may face difficulty.

    When is it compulsory to register as a charity?

    In the UK, it is compulsory for an organization to register as a charity with the Charity Commission if it meets certain criteria. These criteria include:

    1. Having a specific charitable purpose that is for the public benefit.
    2. Generating income or assets over a certain threshold: Organizations with an annual income or assets over £5,000 must register as a charity.
    3. Carrying out activities that are solely or mainly charitable: Organizations that only carry out non-charitable activities, such as political campaigning or commercial trading, are not eligible to register as a charity.

    It is also important to note that even if an organization does not meet these criteria, it can still apply to register as a charity if it can demonstrate that it is operating for the public benefit.

    Additionally, organisations that are charitable incorporated organisations (CIOs) are required to register with the Charity Commission, regardless of the size of their income or assets.

    It is important to remember that even if an organization is not legally required to register as a charity, it may still choose to do so in order to access certain benefits, such as tax exemptions and eligibility for grant funding.

    What’s the minimum required number and age of the trustee?

    The minimum number of trustees should be 3, however, there is no upper limits for number of trustees in a charity.

    The minimum age for a Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO), or a Charitable Company is 16 years or at least 18 years age of a trustee is required for any other type of charity.

    How long does it take to get the registration number?

    We will file your application within 5 working days of receiving the details and required information; it may, however, take about 2 months for the charity commission to issue the charity number. We will keep you informed about any updates and will remain in touch with the commission on your behalf.

    Need help registering your charity

      By submitting your details on this form, you are agreeing to our Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy, an expert will contact you to assist you with your enquiry. Throughout the process, you could be contacted via phone, SMS, email and/or post.