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NGO Registration

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What is an NGO?

Business Registration

An NGO (Non-Governmental Organization) is a non-profit entity formed to work for social, charitable, educational, cultural, religious, environmental, or humanitarian causes. NGOs operate independently of the government and focus on public welfare rather than profit generation.

In India, NGOs can be legally registered under different structures such as Trust, Society, or Section 8 Company, depending on the nature of activities, governance needs, and long-term vision.

Key Features of NGO Registration

  • Non-profit and charitable objective
  • Formed for public welfare and social causes
  • Legal recognition and credibility
  • Eligible for government grants and CSR funding
  • Profits reinvested for social objectives
  • Regulated under applicable Indian laws
  • Builds trust among donors and authorities

Types of NGO Registration in India

Trust Registration

Registered under the Indian Trusts Act, 1882, mainly suitable for charitable and religious activities.

Society Registration

Registered under the Societies Registration Act, 1860, ideal for cultural, educational, and social welfare organizations.

Section 8 Company Registration

Registered under the Companies Act, 2013, best suited for NGOs requiring higher credibility, structured governance, and CSR funding.

Is NGO Registration Mandatory?

Yes. To legally operate as an NGO, open a bank account, receive donations, apply for government grants, CSR funding, or claim tax benefits, registration under an appropriate legal structure is mandatory.

Registered NGOs are eligible to apply for:

  • Government schemes and grants
  • CSR funding
  • Income tax exemptions under 12A & 80G
  • Foreign donations (after FCRA approval)

Who Should Choose NGO Registration?

NGO registration is suitable for:

  • Social activists and welfare groups
  • Educational and research institutions
  • Healthcare and environmental organizations
  • Charitable and religious bodies
  • CSR implementation agencies
  • Individuals or groups working for public welfare

NGO Registration Process

Step 1: Select NGO Type

Choose the appropriate structure – Trust, Society, or Section 8 Company – based on objectives and future plans.

Step 2: Name Finalization

Select a unique and meaningful name reflecting the NGO’s mission.

Step 3: Document Preparation

Draft Trust Deed / MOA / Rules & Regulations as per selected structure.

Step 4: Filing of Registration Application

Submit application with required documents to the concerned authority.

Step 5: Registration Certificate Issuance

After verification, the NGO Registration Certificate is issued.

Documents for NGO Registration

Common Documents (For All NGO Types)

  1. PAN Card of founders / trustees / directors
  2. Aadhaar Card
  3. Passport-size photographs
  4. Email ID and mobile number

Address Proof

  1. Electricity bill / Water bill
  2. Rent agreement or ownership proof
  3. No Objection Certificate (NOC) from owner

Additional Documents (As Applicable)

  1. Trust Deed (for Trust Registration)
  2. Memorandum & Rules (for Society Registration)
  3. MOA & AOA (for Section 8 Company)
  4. Declarations and affidavits

Time for NGO Registration

  • Trust Registration: 5–7 Working Days
  • Society Registration: 7–10 Working Days
  • Section 8 Company Registration: 10–15 Working Days

(Timelines may vary depending on state regulations and document verification)

Advantages of NGO Registration

  • Legal Recognition –Registered NGOs gain official legal identity.

 

  • Eligibility for Government Grants –Access to various central and state government schemes.

 

  • CSR Funding Opportunities –Registered NGOs can receive CSR funds from eligible companies.

 

  • Tax Benefits –Eligible to apply for income tax exemptions under 12A & 80G.

 

  • Donor Trust & Transparency –Registration improves credibility and donor confidence.

 

  • Structured Operations – Clear governance ensures long-term sustainability.

NGO vs Section 8 Company vs Trust

Particulars

NGO (Trust/Society)

Section 8 Company

Governing Law

Trust / Society Act

Companies Act, 2013

Objective

Charitable

Charitable

Credibility

Medium

High

CSR Eligibility

Limited

High

Compliance Level

Low–Moderate

Moderate

Governance

Flexible

Structured

Compliance Requirements for NGO

Annual Income Tax Return filing

  • Annual audit of accounts
  • Maintenance of proper books of accounts
  • Compliance as per NGO structure
  • Renewal and reporting (if applicable)

Why Choose JS Certification Services?

  • Experienced NGO & compliance consultants
  • Complete support for Trust, Society & Section 8
  • Transparent and affordable pricing
  • Fast and smooth registration process
  • Assistance in 12A, 80G & FCRA registration
  • Dedicated post-registration support

FAQ

A reassuring message that focuses on clarity and understanding.
It shows a commitment to answering every question with care, one step at a time.

Yes, registration is required to obtain legal recognition, open a bank account, receive donations, and apply for grants or tax exemptions.

Yes, but the NGO must obtain FCRA registration or prior permission from the government to receive foreign contributions.

Yes, NGOs must comply with annual filings such as income tax returns, audit reports, and other statutory requirements based on their structure.

Google Review

Pankaj Srivastava
Pankaj Srivastava
Founder – Rural Development NGO
Excellent guidance for NGO registration. The team helped us choose the right structure and completed all documentation smoothly. Very professional and supportive service.
Maria Fernandes
Maria Fernandes
Program Director – Women Empowerment NGO
Hassle-free NGO registration experience. Everything was explained clearly, from legal formalities to post-registration compliance. Highly recommended.
Karthik R
Karthik R
Operations Head – Healthcare NGO
Smooth registration process with timely updates. Their support made NGO formation easy and stress-free.