Starting a charity in Singapore is a noble endeavor that requires careful planning, compliance with regulations, and a clear mission to address a societal need. Whether you want to support underprivileged communities, promote education, or aid in environmental conservation, setting up a charity involves a structured process. This guide will take you through the detailed steps to start a charity in Singapore.

 

Step 1: Define Your Charity’s Mission and Objectives

Before starting a charity, clearly define your mission and objectives. Your charity should aim to benefit the public, and your mission must align with one of the four recognized charitable purposes under Singapore’s law:

  1. Relief of poverty
  2. Advancement of education
  3. Advancement of religion
  4. Other purposes beneficial to the community

Having a well-defined purpose helps in gaining support, fundraising, and fulfilling regulatory requirements.

 

Step 2: Choose a Legal Structure

There are several legal structures available when setting up a charity in Singapore:

  1. Society – Register under the Registry of Societies (ROS) if you intend to have a membership-based organization.
  2. Company Limited by Guarantee (CLG) – Register with the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA) if you require a corporate structure with limited liability.
  3. Trust – Suitable for organizations managing significant assets and funds, with a focus on philanthropy.

Selecting the right structure depends on your operational needs, governance preferences, and liability concerns.

 

Step 3: Register with the Relevant Authorities

Depending on the chosen structure, you need to register with the appropriate authority:

For Societies: Register with the Registry of Societies (ROS) under the Ministry of Home Affairs.
For CLGs: Register with the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA).
For Trusts: Establish a trust deed and register it accordingly.

Each registration type has different compliance requirements and administrative obligations.

 

Step 4: Apply for Charity Status with the Commissioner of Charities (COC)

Once your entity is registered, you must apply for charity status with the Commissioner of Charities (COC) under the Charities Act. To qualify, your organization must:

  • Have exclusively charitable purposes
  • Provide public benefit
  • Maintain transparency in governance and financial management

Submit your application through the Charity Portal, along with necessary documents such as your governing instrument, financial plans, and objectives.

 

Step 5: Apply for Institution of a Public Character (IPC) Status (Optional)

If your charity wants to receive tax-deductible donations, you should apply for Institution of a Public Character (IPC) status. IPC status allows donors to enjoy tax deductions for their contributions. To qualify, your charity must:

  • Be fully dedicated to benefiting the community in Singapore
  • Have sound financial and governance structures
  • Comply with IPC regulations and reporting requirements

 

Step 6: Set Up Governance and Compliance Measures

A strong governance framework ensures accountability and operational efficiency. Some key governance steps include:

  • Appointing a Board of Directors or Trustees
  • Establishing clear financial controls and record-keeping practices
  • Drafting policies for fundraising, conflict of interest, and internal auditing

Following the Code of Governance for Charities and IPCs helps maintain credibility and regulatory compliance.

 

Step 7: Open a Corporate Bank Account

To manage your charity’s funds effectively, open a corporate bank account in the charity’s name. Banks in Singapore typically require:

  • A copy of your registration certificate
  • Board resolution authorizing the account opening
  • Identification documents of the authorized signatories

A corporate account facilitates transparent financial transactions and donations.

 

Step 8: Fundraising and Resource Mobilization

Once your charity is legally established, you need resources to operate. Fundraising strategies include:

  • Crowdfunding campaigns
  • Corporate sponsorships
  • Grant applications
  • Membership or donor programs

Ensure compliance with the Charities (Fund-Raising Appeals for Local and Foreign Charitable Purposes) Regulations when raising funds.

 

Step 9: Compliance and Reporting Requirements

Registered charities must fulfill annual reporting obligations, including:

  • Submitting financial statements and annual reports
  • Conducting audits if required
  • Ensuring transparency in financial disclosures

Failure to comply with regulations may result in penalties or deregistration.

 

Conclusion

Starting a charity in Singapore involves multiple steps, from defining your mission to legal registration, governance, and fundraising. By following these steps and complying with Singapore’s charity laws, you can create a sustainable and impactful organization that serves the community effectively.

If you’re ready to start your charity, consult with the team from Raffles Corporate Services to ensure smooth registration and compliance. You can contact the corporate secretarial team at [email protected]. With the right planning, your charity can make a meaningful difference in society.

 

Yours sincerely,
The editorial team at Raffles Corporate Services