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Trust Registration

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What is a Trust Registration?

Business Registration

A Trust is a legal arrangement created to manage property or funds for charitable, religious, educational, or social welfare purposes. Trusts are commonly formed to carry out non-profit activities and are governed by the Indian Trusts Act, 1882 (for private trusts) or relevant state trust laws (for public charitable trusts).

Trust registration provides legal recognition, credibility, and a structured way to manage donations and assets for public benefit.

Key Features of Trust Registration

  • Non-profit and charitable objective
  • Easy to form and manage
  • Minimum compliance requirements
  • Legal recognition and credibility
  • Assets protected under trust deed
  • Suitable for long-term charitable activities
  • Profits used only for trust objectives

Benefits of Trust Registration

Ownership Protection

Trust property is legally protected and managed by trustees.

Public Trust Credibility

Builds trust among donors and the public.

Easy Formation

Simple registration process compared to companies.

Is Trust Registration Mandatory?

While an unregistered trust can exist, registration is highly recommended to operate legally, open a bank account, receive donations, and apply for tax benefits and government grants.

A registered trust can apply for:

  •  PAN for Trust
  • Bank account in Trust name
  • Income tax exemptions under 12A & 80G
  • Government and private funding

Who Should Choose Trust Registration?

Trust registration is suitable for:

  • Charitable and religious organizations
  • Educational and cultural institutions
  • NGOs and welfare groups
  • Hospitals and healthcare initiatives
  • Individuals or families starting a charity
  • Philanthropic foundations

Trust Registration Process

Step 1: Drafting of Trust Deed

A Trust Deed is prepared mentioning objectives, trustees, powers, and rules.

Step 2: Finalization of Trust Name

A unique name reflecting the charitable purpose is selected.

Step 3: Stamp Duty Payment

Stamp duty is paid as per state regulations.

Step 4: Trust Deed Execution

Trust Deed is signed by settlor and trustees in presence of witnesses.

Step 5: Trust Registration

Trust Deed is registered with the Sub-Registrar Office.

Documents Required for Trust Registration

Trustee & Settlor Documents

  1. PAN Card
  2. Aadhaar Card
  3. Passport-size photographs
  4. Email ID and mobile number

Registered Office Address Proof

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

Trust-Specific Documents

  1. Draft Trust Deed
  2. Name and objectives of the Trust
  3. Details of trustees and settlor

Time Required for Trust Registration

  • Drafting of Trust Deed: 1–2 Working Days
  • Registration Process: 3–5 Working Days

Total Time: 5–7 Working Days
(May vary depending on state and documentation)

Advantages of Trust Registration

  • Simple & Cost-Effective – Trust registration is affordable and easy compared to other NGO structures.

 

  • Legal Recognition – Provides official legal identity to the charitable organization.

 

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

 

  • Asset Protection – Trust assets are legally protected and used only for trust purposes.

 

  • Operational Flexibility – Fewer compliances and simple governance structure.

Trust vs Society vs Section 8 Company

Particulars

Trust

Society

Section 8 Company

Governing Law

Indian Trusts Act

Societies Act

Companies Act

Minimum Members

1

7

2

Compliance Level

Low

Moderate

Moderate

Credibility

Medium

Medium

High

CSR Eligibility

Limited

Limited

High

Management

Trustees

Managing Committee

Directors

Compliance Requirements for Trust

  • Annual Income Tax Return filing
  • Maintenance of proper books of accounts
  • Audit (if applicable)
  • Compliance with trust deed provisions

Why Choose JS Certification Services?

  • Experienced NGO & trust consultants
  • End-to-end Trust Registration support
  • Legally compliant Trust Deed drafting
  • Transparent pricing with no hidden charges
  • Fast processing and expert guidance
  • Post-registration support for 12A & 80G
  •  

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.

While a trust can exist without registration, registering it provides legal validity, helps in opening bank accounts, owning property, and claiming tax benefits.

Yes, a trust can earn income, but the income must be used strictly for the objectives mentioned in the trust deed and not for personal benefit.

Yes, a registered trust can apply for income tax exemptions under applicable sections, subject to compliance with income tax regulations.

Google Review

Ashok Narayanan
Ashok Narayanan
Managing Trustee
Excellent service for trust registration. The trust deed was drafted clearly, and the entire registration process was completed smoothly. Very professional and reliable support.
Reena Malhotra
Reena Malhotra
Founder – Charitable Trust
Hassle-free trust registration experience. The team explained legal requirements in simple terms and handled all documentation efficiently.
Harish Patel
Harish Patel
Chairman – Community Welfare Trust
Very satisfied with the service. From trust deed preparation to registration, everything was managed efficiently and professionally.