An NGO (Non-Governmental Organization) plays a vital role in India’s social, educational, charitable, and developmental activities. NGO Registration in India gives legal recognition to organizations working for social welfare and enables them to receive donations, grants, and tax benefits. In this Saving Mantra guide, we explain the step-by-step process of NGO Registration in India, types of NGO structures, documents required, and post-registration compliance in simple terms.
What is an NGO?
An NGO is a non-profit organization established to work for charitable, social, religious, educational, or cultural purposes. NGOs in India can be registered under different legal structures depending on objectives and operational needs.
Types of NGO Registration in India
1. Trust Registration
Registered under the Indian Trusts Act, 1882, mainly used for charitable and religious purposes.
2. Society Registration
Registered under the Societies Registration Act, 1860, suitable for education, culture, art, and social welfare organizations.
3. Section 8 Company
Registered under the Companies Act, 2013, ideal for NGOs requiring higher credibility and structured governance.
Benefits of NGO Registration
- Legal identity and recognition
- Eligibility to receive donations and grants
- Tax benefits under Income Tax Act
- Increased credibility with donors and authorities
- Ability to open bank accounts in NGO name
- Eligibility for government and CSR funding
Step-by-Step Process for NGO Registration in India
Step 1: Decide the Type of NGO
Choose between Trust, Society, or Section 8 Company based on objectives, scale of operations, and compliance capacity.
Step 2: Select Name and Objectives
Finalize a unique name and clearly define the charitable objectives of the NGO. The name should not violate trademark or existing organization rules.
Step 3: Prepare Legal Documents
For Trust:
- Trust Deed mentioning objectives, trustees, and rules
For Society:
- Memorandum of Association (MOA)
- Rules & Regulations
For Section 8 Company:
- MOA & AOA
- Declaration by promoters
Step 4: Submit Application to Authorities
- Trust: Register with the Local Sub-Registrar
- Society: File with Registrar of Societies
- Section 8 Company: Apply via MCA portal
Step 5: Obtain Registration Certificate
After verification of documents, the authority issues a Registration Certificate, officially recognizing the NGO.
Step 6: Apply for PAN and Bank Account
Apply for PAN Card in the NGO’s name and open a bank account for financial transactions.
Step 7: Apply for Tax Exemptions (Optional but Important)
- 12A Registration – Income tax exemption
- 80G Registration – Tax deduction benefit for donors
Documents Required for NGO Registration
Common Documents:
- PAN & Aadhaar of trustees/directors/members
- Address proof
- Passport-size photographs
- Office address proof
- NGO objectives and activity details
Compliance After NGO Registration
- Annual Income Tax Return filing
- Annual audit of accounts
- Filing annual returns (Society/Section 8)
- Compliance with FCRA (if receiving foreign funds)
Why Choose Saving Mantra for NGO Registration?
- Expert consultation on correct NGO structure
- Complete documentation and filing support
- Affordable and transparent pricing
- Quick registration with compliance guidance
- End-to-end post-registration assistance
Conclusion
NGO Registration in India is the first and most important step towards creating a legally compliant organization for social impact. Choosing the right structure and following the correct step-by-step registration process ensures long-term credibility and smooth operations. With Saving Mantra, you can register your NGO easily and focus on making a positive difference in society.