HMRC launches Charities Digital Service

Charities can now register their details online with HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC).

The digital service allows new charities to register their details with HMRC for tax purposes. It has in-built checks and guidance to help organisations provide the right information and supporting documentation so HMRC can confirm their tax status.

HMRC’s Chief Digital and Information Officer, Mark Dearnley, said:

“We are completely changing the way we work with our customers – including charities. Our new digital services are straightforward, easy to use and convenient.

“The charities service minimises the risk of making mistakes so applications are less likely to be returned to the organisation.”

There are currently 15,500 new charity registrations per annum.

The new service, and information about registering a charity’s details, can be found at https://www.gov.uk/charities-and-tax/get-recognition.

Notes for editors

1. The new digital service will replace the existing print and post forms currently available on the HMRC pages on GOV.UK. HMRC will not reject any outstanding print and post forms unless they are incomplete, which is in line with current practice.
2. Currently, organisations making an application must complete a form ChA1 and send it to HMRC Charities. If the application contains errors or mistakes it is returned to the      organisation for correction.
3. The new digital service allows organisations to register online.They will be provided with a number which they need to use to send the supporting documentation to HMRC.
4. Initially customers will use the Government Gateway to access the new service.The aim is to move across to GOV.UK Verify at a later date. GOV.UK Verify will provide a single way for users to verify their identity when they need to, to use government services online. It replaces expensive, less effective face to face and postal methods of identity proofing and verification. GOV.UK Verify offers a service that is faster and more secure for users, suitable for digital by default services and is re-usable across a range of services. More information about Verify can be found at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/introducing-govuk-verify/introducing-govuk-verify