A Step-by-Step Guide to Register a Mosque, Church or Temple as a Charity in British Columbia

Religious organizations like mosques, churches and temples play an essential role in serving communities. In British Columbia, registering your religious organization as a nonprofit or charity not only formalizes its operations but also makes it eligible for tax exemptions, government grants, and other benefits. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the registration process.

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1. Understand the Legal Structure

Before you begin, decide on the legal structure of your organization. Most religious organizations register as nonprofits or charities in Canada.

• Nonprofit Organization: Operates for purposes like religion, education, or social welfare but does not generate profits for members.
• Registered Charity: Similar to a nonprofit, but it allows the organization to also issue tax receipts for donations and access more benefits, including grants.
  
  

Tip: If you plan to seek charity status in the future, structure your organization with that goal in mind.

2. Draft a Clear Purpose for Your Organization

Your organization’s purpose must align with nonprofit or charitable objectives under Canadian law. For religious organizations, this typically includes:

• Providing religious services.
• Promoting spiritual growth and education.
• Supporting community outreach and charitable activities.

Example: Instead of saying, “To run a church,” describe your purpose as: “To advance the Christian faith by organizing prayer services, providing religious education, and offering community support programs.”

3. Choose a Name for Your Organization

The name must be unique and not cause confusion with existing entities. It should also clearly reflect the religious nature of your organization.

• Check the name’s availability through the BC Registry Services.
• Avoid including terms like “Corporation” unless required.

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4. Incorporate Under the Societies Act of British Columbia or Federally

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You can choose to incorporate your religious organization either provincially under the Societies Act of British Columbia or federally under the Canada Not-for-profit Corporations Act.

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Provincial Incorporation (BC)

If your temple, mosque, or church will primarily operate in British Columbia, incorporating provincially is a simple option. You’ll need to:

1. Reserve the Name: Ensure it’s unique through BC Registry Services.
2. Prepare Constitution and Bylaws: Outline your purpose and rules.
3. Submit the Application: Complete the process online and pay the fee.

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Federal Incorporation

For organizations operating nationwide, federal incorporation provides broader recognition. You’ll need to:

1. Reserve the Name: Through Corporations Canada.
2. Prepare Articles of Incorporation: Outline governance and purpose.
3. Submit the Application: Complete the process online and pay the fee.

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Advantages of Federal Incorporation:

• Broader recognition across Canada.
• Access to national grants.

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5. Apply for Charitable Status with the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA)

If you want to issue donation tax receipts and access additional benefits, you’ll need to apply for charitable status.

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Requirements for Charitable Status

• Your organization must fall into one or more of the four categories of charity under Canadian law:
  • Advancement of religion.
  • Relief of poverty.
  • Advancement of education.
  • Other purposes beneficial to the community.
    
    

How to Apply

• Step 1: Prepare the Charity Application via the CRA's MyBusiness Portal.
• Step 2: Submit Governing Documents: Include your constitution, bylaws, and incorporation certificate.
• Step 3: Include a Detailed Description of Activities: Explain how your programs support religious and community goals.
• Step 4: Submit Financial Information: Provide details of your funding sources and a budget for the first year of operations.

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The CRA will take several months to review your application. Once approved, your organization will be a registered charity and can issue tax receipts for donations. If your charity application is prepared and filed by a charity lawyer, you can typically expect a 5-6 charity registration timeline for your mosque, church or temple. For those who apply without expert counsel, can expect a turnaround time of about 10-12 months.

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6. Obtain Necessary Licenses and Permits

Depending on your activities, you may need additional approvals, such as:

• Zoning permits for your place of worship.

7. Build and Maintain Good Governance

After registering your organization, focus on compliance and transparency.

• Hold Regular Board Meetings: Ensure decisions are documented.
• File Annual Reports: Submit these to the BC Registry and CRA to maintain active status.
• Follow Ethical Fundraising Practices: This builds trust with donors.

8. Seek Professional Assistance

Navigating the legal requirements can be complex. Consider hiring a charity lawyer or consultant with expertise in charity law regulations to avoid errors and save time.

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Registering a temple, mosque, or church in British Columbia or Vancouver involves multiple steps, from defining your purpose to incorporating and obtaining charitable status. While the process requires effort, it ensures your organization can operate effectively, gain public trust, and achieve its mission of serving the community. By following this guide and seeking professional advice when needed, you’ll set a strong foundation for your religious organization’s future.

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The charity lawyers at B.I.G. Charity Law Group have assisted numerous mosques, churches and temples in Vancouver, across British Columbia and Canada with charity registration and compliance. If you are looking for quick, affordable and streamlined registration of your mosque or church, click on the link above to start your charity registration.

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