The Regulator for Charities in England and Wales
What is Online Application for Registration?
It is the ability for charities to complete and submit their application form for charity registration electronically rather than use our paper application form. It provides a quick and easy means of getting the registration application form and governing document to the Commission. As now, we require a hard copy of the trustee declaration form. The user-friendly system provides you with online guidance throughout completion of the form, and allows you to save the form at any time and come back to it another time if you wish.
Who can use On-line Applications for Registration?
At the moment only charities using an approved governing document and those charities that are changing to a company or incorporated structure can use Online Applications for Registration. Approved governing document are produced by some large charities and umbrella bodies. You can find details of the approved governing document we accept together with contact details for the umbrella organisations here.
What is an approved governing document?
This is a governing document that has been agreed with a national, umbrella or other body that can be used by charities associated with them. These approved governing documents contain both agreed objects and administrative provisions that are specific to a particular type of charity. A list of organisations for which an approved governing document has been agreed. Please note that copies of these documents are not available from the Charity Commission - you will need to contact the umbrella body concerned.
Will I get a registration number as soon as I submit an application?
No. You will be given a charity reference number which you should quote when submitting any additional documentation. This is an online application system, not an online registration system. Applications received will still need to be considered in the usual way before registration is confirmed. Using online application for registration will reduce the time it takes for us to consider your application.
How long will it take to register a charity using online application for registration?
If you have used an approved governing document without changing it, and there is no significant private benefit to any trustee or related party, we will normally be able to approve your application and give you the registration number within 10 working days.
Do I have to use online application for registration if I am using an approved governing document?
No. We would prefer applicant charities to use the new service and it has the added benefit of reducing the time it takes us to consider your application, but, you can complete and submit a paper form.
NB see also Online Application for Registration