While we will consider completed applications once registration has begun, we cannot advise you on setting up your charity or advise you if it is the right decision for your organisation.

Our website will provide specific guidance to help you complete your application. It will include the registration process  and choosing your charity's name, purposes and governing document. We will also provide further information on how to demonstrate public benefit once we have published our Public Benefit Guidance and opened registration.

You may be able to get information and guidance from the Northern Ireland Council for Voluntary Action (NICVA The Northern Ireland Council for Voluntary Action (External link)) on setting up a new charity.

Organisations may also wish to consult a professional advisor when they are considering applying for charitable status. The Directory of Solicitors on the Law Society of Northern Ireland website (External link) may be able you identify a legal firm with expertise in Charity law in your area.