Preparing for your application

Before preparing for your application, you should through read our Meeting the charity test guidance. This guidance explains how we will determine if your organisation can become a charity. If you are an existing charity wishing to change legal form to a SCIO, please read our Guide to Incorporation for further information.

There are many factors to consider when deciding to become a charity. It may be more advantageous for your organisation not to pursue charitable status. However, even if you decide it is the appropriate route, your application won't succeed unless you provide all the necessary information.

The upcoming sections guide you through the 10 essential questions you need to address in your application to become a charity. Each part includes references to supplementary advice for more detailed information.