Step-by-Step Process for Filing NGO Registration
Step 1: Decide the Type of NGO
Choose the appropriate structure based on:
- Nature of activities
- Geographical area of operation
- Funding plans (CSR, foreign grants, donations)
- Compliance preference
Step 2: Select NGO Name
- Choose a unique and meaningful name
- Ensure the name does not violate trademarks or existing entities
- Avoid prohibited or misleading words
Step 3: Prepare Constitutional Documents
Draft the core documents based on NGO type:
- Trust Deed (for Trust)
- Memorandum of Association (MOA) & Rules (for Society)
- MOA & AOA (for Section 8 Company)
These documents define:
- Objectives
- Management structure
- Fund utilization
- Dissolution clause
Step 4: Collect Documents of Members
Prepare documents of founders/trustees/directors:
- PAN card
- Aadhaar / Passport / Voter ID
- Address proof
- Passport-size photographs
Step 5: Prepare Registered Office Proof
Documents required:
- Utility bill (not older than 2 months)
- Rent agreement or ownership proof
- No Objection Certificate (NOC) from owner
Step 6: File NGO Registration Application
File application with the appropriate authority:
- Trust: Sub-Registrar Office
- Society: Registrar of Societies
- Section 8 Company: Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA)
Submit all documents and pay government fees.
Step 7: Verification & Approval
- Authorities verify documents and objectives
- Clarifications may be requested
- Upon approval, registration certificate is issued
Step 8: Apply for PAN & Bank Account
After registration:
- Apply for PAN in NGO’s name
- Open NGO bank account
- Register on NGO Darpan (optional but recommended)
Step 9: Apply for Tax & Funding Benefits (Optional)
To enhance funding opportunities:
- 12A Registration – Income tax exemption
- 80G Registration – Tax benefit to donors
- CSR-1 Registration – CSR funding eligibility
- FCRA Registration – Foreign donations
Documents Required for NGO Registration
- Identity & address proof of members
- NGO name approval
- Registered office proof
- Constitutional documents
- Passport-size photographs
Time Required for NGO Registration
| NGO Type | Estimated Time |
|---|---|
| Trust | 7–10 working days |
| Society | 10–15 working days |
| Section 8 Company | 15–25 working days |
Benefits of NGO Registration
- Legal recognition
- Eligibility for government & CSR grants
- Tax exemptions
- Increased donor confidence
- Transparency & accountability
How Saving Mantra Helps
Saving Mantra provides end-to-end NGO registration services, including:
- Structure selection advisory
- Drafting of Trust Deed / MOA / AOA
- Registration filing & follow-ups
- PAN, 12A, 80G, CSR-1 & FCRA assistance
- Ongoing compliance support
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Can a single person start an NGO?
Trust requires minimum 2 trustees, Society requires minimum 7 members, Section 8 requires minimum 2 directors.
Q2. Is NGO registration mandatory?
Yes, registration is mandatory to operate legally and receive funds.
Q3. Can an NGO earn profits?
Yes, but profits must be used only for charitable objectives.
Q4. Which NGO structure is best?
Section 8 Company is preferred for credibility and CSR funding, while Trust and Society suit smaller operations.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or professional advice. NGO laws and procedures may change. Consult Saving Mantra experts for accurate and updated guidance.