Register of Associations – Registering liquidators of an association

If an association is dissolved, this is normally followed by liquidation. During liquidation, the association’s affairs are wound up. If necessary,

• ongoing business is concluded, and
• outstanding debts are recovered,
• the association’s assets are realised,
• the association’s debts are settled,
• tax obligations are met and
• any surplus paid out to the entitled parties.

Liquidation does not take place if the association’s assets revert to the state by virtue of the articles of association or by law. If insolvency proceedings have been opened in respect of the association’s assets, these proceedings take precedence. If the association still has assets remaining after the conclusion of the insolvency proceedings, liquidation will also take place.

In most cases, the association’s executive committee is responsible for the liquidation. The general meeting may instead appoint special liquidators for this task. If your association’s articles of association contain specific provisions regarding the appointment of liquidators – for example, concerning their qualifications or the requirement that they be members of the association – these must be observed. The liquidators must be entered in the register of associations. They are vested with the power of representation. The executive committee must notify the local civil court of the scope of this power of representation when registering the liquidators.