Types of NGO Registration in India

Before starting an NGO, you must choose the right legal structure. In India, NGOs can be registered in three main forms:

1. Trust Registration

A Public Charitable Trust is the simplest way to start an NGO. It requires a minimum of one founder and two trustees.

👉 Best for: Family or small group-based NGOs

2. Society Registration

A Society is formed by a group of people working together for a common cause. It requires at least 7 members.

👉 Best for: Community-based organizations

3. Section 8 Company Registration

A Section 8 Company is registered under the Companies Act and offers higher credibility and structured management.

👉 Best for: Large NGOs seeking funding and professional operations

Step-by-Step Process to Start an NGO in India

Starting an NGO involves several legal steps. Here is a simplified process:

Step 1: Choose a Unique Name

Select a name that reflects your NGO’s mission and is not already registered.

Step 2: Decide the NGO Structure

Choose between Trust, Society, or Section 8 Company based on your goals and team size.

Step 3: Prepare Legal Documents

Prepare documents such as:

• Identity proof (Aadhar, PAN)
• Address proof
• Passport-size photographs
• NGO objectives

Step 4: Draft Legal Deed or MOA

• Trust → Trust Deed
• Society → Memorandum of Association (MOA)
• Section 8 → MOA & AOA

Step 5: Apply for Registration

Submit your application to the relevant authority:

• Trust → Sub-Registrar
• Society → Registrar of Societies
• Section 8 → Ministry of Corporate Affairs

Step 6: Open Bank Account

After registration, open a bank account in the NGO’s name.

Documents Required for NGO Registration

The basic documents required include:

• PAN Card & Aadhar Card of members
• Address proof of office
• Rent agreement/NOC (if rented)
• Passport-size photographs
• NGO objectives
• Electricity bill

Importance of 12AB and 80G Registration

After registering your NGO, the next important step is to apply for 12AB and 80G registration.

🔹 12AB Registration

Provides income tax exemption to NGOs.

🔹 80G Registration

Allows donors to claim tax benefits, increasing donation opportunities.

👉 These registrations are essential for building trust and attracting funding.

What is FCRA Registration?

If your NGO wants to receive foreign donations, you must apply for FCRA registration (Foreign Contribution Regulation Act).

🔹 Key Requirements:

• NGO must be at least 3 years old
• Proper financial records
• Dedicated FCRA bank account

👉 FCRA ensures legal compliance for foreign funding.

How to Get CSR Funding for NGOs

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funding is one of the main sources of financial support for NGOs.

🔹 Steps to Get CSR Funding:

1. Register under CSR-1
2. Maintain proper compliance
3. Create a strong NGO profile
4. Apply to companies

👉 NGOs with 12AB, 80G, and compliance have higher chances of approval.

Annual Compliance for NGOs

Running an NGO is not just about registration. You must follow regular compliance to avoid penalties.

🔹 Important Compliance:

• Income Tax Return Filing
• 10BD & 10BE Filing
• Audit Reports
• FCRA Returns (if applicable)

👉 Proper compliance ensures smooth functioning and legal safety.

 Benefits of NGO Registration

Registering an NGO provides several advantages:

✔ Legal recognition

✔ Eligibility for government schemes

✔ Access to CSR and foreign funding

✔ Tax benefits

✔ Increased credibility