Here’s What You Need to Know Before 5 April 2026
If your incorporated society hasn’t yet discussed the Incorporated Societies Act 2022, now is the time. All societies must actively choose whether to reregister under the new Act, and the deadline of 5 April 2026 is approaching faster than many realise.
Failing to take action isn’t a neutral choice. It has serious consequences for your society, its members, and any assets or obligations you hold.
Here’s a straightforward overview of what’s changing, what you must consider, and why tackling this early will save a lot of stress later.
Before 5 April 2026, every society must choose one of three paths:
- Apply to reregister under the 2022 Act to continue operating.
- Appoint a liquidator.
- Wind up and apply for dissolution.
If your society does nothing?
It will simply cease to exist and that can create a range of unexpected and potentially costly problems. It may sound administrative, but the real‑world fallout can be significant. Without legal status, the society can no longer hold contracts, operate bank accounts, manage property, or make decisions in its own name. Even more concerning, members may find themselves exposed to personal liability for debts or obligations such as leases, loans, or unpaid invoices. The protection that comes with being an incorporated society disappears overnight.
Losing incorporated status also means losing control. Any assets the society owns bank balances, equipment, property, or community resources may end up being dealt with by the Registrar rather than the society itself. The group’s name becomes unprotected too, so another organisation could adopt it without any recourse.
A society that does not reregister also loses the ability to function in even the most basic ways. It cannot sign new contracts, renew existing agreements, apply for funding, or represent itself legally. For many community groups, that would bring activities to a sudden halt.
The 2022 Act sets new expectations around governance, financial reporting, membership, dispute management, and officer responsibilities. Some societies will meet these requirements easily; others will need to make structural or constitutional changes to stay compliant. Understanding how the new obligations apply to your society and what adjustments are needed is essential before deciding whether to reregister.
The key message is simple: doing nothing is not a safe option. Whether your society chooses to continue, wind up, or take another path, the decision must be made formally and on time. The risks of ignoring the deadline are far greater than the effort required to prepare.
If you’re unsure what this means for your society, or whether you’re positioned to meet the new standards, we can help you understand your risks and your options and provide a seamless process for you.
