Singapore Society Act: Registered Society Obligations
Obligations of Registered Societies Under the Societies Act in Singapore
Registered societies in Singapore are subject to various obligations under the Societies Act. These obligations are designed to ensure transparency, accountability, and compliance with the law. Here are some of the key requirements:
Financial Obligations
Annual Accounts: Societies must maintain proper accounts and records of their transactions and affairs. These accounts should be audited annually by a qualified auditor.
Annual Return: A society is required to submit an Annual Return to the Registry of Societies (ROS) within one month of its Annual General Meeting (AGM). This return includes information about the society's activities, membership, and financial status.
Fundraising Appeals: For any fundraising appeal, the society must submit an audited statement of accounts to the ROS within 60 days of its completion.
Governance and Administrative Requirements
Constitution: Every society must have a constitution that outlines its objectives, rules, and procedures.
AGM: Societies must hold an Annual General Meeting to discuss their affairs and elect office bearers.
Office Bearers: The society must appoint office bearers (e.g., president, secretary, treasurer) who are responsible for its management.
Changes: Any changes to the society's name, place of business, or rules must be notified to the ROS.
Insignia: If the society intends to use a flag, symbol, emblem, badge, or other insignia, it must obtain permission from the ROS.
Other Requirements
Compliance with Laws: Societies must comply with all applicable laws and regulations in Singapore.
Public Interest: The society's activities must be in the public interest and not be detrimental to the community.
For more information, you can visit the Registry of Societies website: https://www.mha.gov.sg/mha-e-services/ros/registered-societies
How Bestar Can Help Registered Societies in Singapore
Bestar can provide invaluable assistance to registered societies in Singapore, ensuring their compliance with the Societies Act and other relevant laws. Here are some ways we can help:
Constitution and Bylaws
Drafting: Bestar can help draft or review a society's constitution and bylaws to ensure they are clear, comprehensive, and compliant with the law.
Amendments: We can assist in making necessary amendments to the constitution or bylaws to reflect changes in the society's operations or legal requirements.
Registration and Incorporation
Guidance: Besar can provide guidance on the registration process and ensure that all necessary documents and information are submitted correctly.
Compliance: We can help societies comply with the registration requirements of the Registry of Societies (ROS) and other relevant authorities.
Financial Matters
Accounting and Auditing: Bestar can advise on accounting practices, record-keeping, and auditing requirements to ensure financial transparency and compliance with the law.
Fundraising: We can assist in structuring fundraising activities to comply with relevant regulations and minimize legal risks.
Governance and Management
Best Practices: Bestar can advise on good governance practices, including the roles and responsibilities of office bearers, decision-making processes, and conflict resolution mechanisms.
Risk Management: We can help identify and mitigate legal risks associated with the society's activities.
Regulatory Compliance
Advice: Bestar can provide advice on compliance with the Societies Act and other relevant laws, such as the Charities Act.
Updates: We can keep societies informed of any changes in the law that may affect their operations.
By engaging Bestar, registered societies in Singapore can benefit from our expertise and avoid potential legal pitfalls.
Constitution - Society (Singapore)
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