Frequently Asked Questions

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VASWS staff are here to help you with starting up or running your charity or community group.

Here is a selection of questions we are most often asked.
For more help, call 01483 504626 or email info@vasws.org.uk

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Q. We are an association and have been working for a number of years getting money from individuals and the occasional grant. Do we have to pay tax?
A. You probably don’t need to pay tax but it is recommended that you register with HM Revenue and Customs. They review an organisation's situation every five years in case it changes and they can recover taxes from you. This registration is especially relevant if your accounts are not processed by an accountant with an in-depth understanding of tax law.

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Membership is free for voluntary and community groups in Guildford and Waverley -
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Q. We have been providing services for a number of years. Must we register with the Charity Commission?

A. As long as your constitution outlines the public benefit that the organisation provides, and you work to charitable purposes, it is only necessary to register with the Charity Commission when your income reaches £5,000. Please call us on 01483 504626 to discuss this further.

Q. I have been doing a lot of work for the charity of which I am a trustee. Our paid coordinator left and I was offered the post. Can I continue being a trustee and get paid until we recruit another coordinator?
A. No person (or group of people) should receive exclusive benefit from the charity, unless agreed with the Charity Commission prior to initiating the work. In this situation, you will need to step down from your trusteeship before taking on the job, even temporarily. To comply with equalities legislation, you may have to explain why it is that only you can take the position instead of advertising for other candidates. It is important to follow the right process because your membership may complain about you receiving a benefit to the Charity Commission and the latter may ask you to pay it back. It is best if you call the Charity Commission and ask for their advice.

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