The Charity Commission requires evidence that an organisation has £5,000 before it can Register a new charity. The best evidence of this is having a bank statement, in the organisation’s name, showing an income of £5,000.

We know that banks and building societies will not open a charity account until you are registered as a charity, however, many do offer “Treasurer’s” or “Community” accounts. These accounts usually offer free banking and other helpful services to their customers.

It is an account such as this that we would expect your organisation to open prior to application for registration. It is often the case that these accounts can be converted into charity accounts once registration is complete.

If you have any problems in establishing such an account with your local bank or building society you may wish to consider high street alternatives.

ID: 2013