Before you set up a trust board
Choosing a legal structure that’s right for you
If you’re setting up a community organisation – whether social, charitable, or something else – you’ll need to consider which legal structure is most appropriate for the group and its activities.
Will an unincorporated group, operating informally, be sufficient? Or will you need something more formalised, with written rules and procedures, such as an incorporated society or charitable trust board?
There are a number of legal structures that may be suitable, each with its advantages and disadvantages. These include:
- unincorporated groups
- incorporated societies
- trusts
- charitable trust boards
- companies
- industrial and provident societies.
In considering your options it’s important to understand the benefits and implications of each, particularly when it comes to administration, tax status and legal liability.
Before making a decision you should seek professional legal advice.
Related articles
- Things to do before you apply From Starting a charitable trust board
- Your responsibilities From Getting started on the register
Other guides in
Starting a charitable trust board
- Things to do before you apply
- Trustees applying to incorporate a trust board
- Your responsibilities as a charitable trust board
