Founding and running a club or association

In short: An association (Verein) is a voluntary union of people with a shared purpose, such as sport, culture or social engagement. The most common form in Germany is the registered association (e.V.).

In more detail: To register, an association needs at least seven founding members and articles of association.

In detail

• Articles of association: Set out the purpose, membership, bodies and rules of the association.
• Bodies: The members’ assembly as the highest body, the board for day-to-day management.
• Registration: At the local court into the register of associations, after which the suffix “e.V.” is allowed.
• Charitable status: Can be applied for at the tax office, brings tax advantages and allows donation receipts.
• Liability: The registered association is liable with its assets, not members personally.
• Funding: Membership fees, donations and grants as common income sources.
• Responsibility: The board must keep proper accounts and inform the members (Volunteering).