Who can apply for 12A and 80G registration in Karnataka?

Eligible Trusts, Societies and Section 8 Companies can apply for 12A and 80G registration, subject to the applicable requirements.

Is 12A and 80G registration available online in Karnataka?

Yes. The application process is completed online through the Income Tax e-filing system.

What documents are required for 12A and 80G registration?

Commonly required documents include the NGO registration certificate, PAN, accounts and relevant activity or work reports, along with other documents applicable to the organization.

Can NGOs in Bengaluru, Mysuru and Mangaluru apply for 12A and 80G registration?

Yes. NGOs operating in Bengaluru, Mysuru, Mangaluru and other parts of Karnataka can apply through the applicable online Income Tax process.

12A 80G Registration in Karnataka

12A and 80G registrations are central tax provisions; their impact increases in Karnataka, as it is India's premier hub for tech and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR).

As a major centre for MNC and tech giants, Karnataka, particularly Bengaluru, is a primary source of CSR funding.

The Karnataka state government often mandates these registrations for participation in its various social welfare schemes.

For NGOs in Karnataka that provide services (such as vocational training or consultancy) to other organisations, 12A-registered NGOs can apply for a Lower or Nil TDS Certificate under Section 197.

Karnataka has a high concentration of High-Net-Worth Individuals (HNIs) and professional donors who prioritise tax efficiency.

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12A means your NGO doesn't pay income tax. 80G means your donors get a tax discount too. In Karnataka, there's no government fee for either approval, and professional help typically costs ₹7,000 to ₹12,000. You apply on the Income Tax e-filing portal using Form 104 (new NGOs) or Form 105 (NGOs with a track record). Every Karnataka application, regardless of city, is reviewed by one office in Bengaluru. From 1 April 2026, these approvals are officially called Section 332 (12A) and Section 354 (80G)

Ready to Apply for 12A and 80G Registration in Karnataka?

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What Is 12A & 80G Registration?

12A and 80G are two separate approvals from India's Income Tax Department:

12A means your NGO's own income isn't taxed, as long as you spend it on your real charitable work
80G means anyone who donates to your NGO can claim a deduction on their own taxable income
Most NGOs apply for both together, since 80G approval usually needs valid 12A status in place first
12A protects your NGO's money; 80G protects your donor's money, so together they make your NGO both tax-friendly and donor-friendly

These rules are the same everywhere in India, including Karnataka; what differs is the state law your NGO registers under first, before it ever reaches this stage.

Eligibility for 12A & 80G Registration in Karnataka

If your NGO meets the basic requirements, you can proceed with the 12A and 80G application. Here's what you need to qualify:

You're already registered as a Trust, Society, or Section 8 Company
Your PAN is in the NGO's own name, not a trustee's or director's personal PAN
Your goals are genuinely charitable: education, healthcare, poverty relief, environment, or similar public work
You're not set up to benefit only specific named people, like family members

If your NGO isn't registered yet, start with our guide to NGO registration in Bangalore.

Not Sure If Your NGO Needs 12A and 80G?

Understand the benefits, eligibility, and requirements before you apply.

Check 12A and 80G Eligibility

Documents Required for 12A & 80G Registration in Karnataka

Keep these ready before you apply for 12A & 80G Registration in Karnataka:

PAN card of the NGO
Your registration certificate: Trust Deed, Karnataka Society certificate, or Certificate of Incorporation
A No Objection Certificate (NOC) from your property owner
A recent utility bill, like a BESCOM bill, for your office
Bank statements and audited accounts, if your NGO has been active for a while
A real report of your work, with actual numbers and places
Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) of the person filing the form

12A & 80G Registration Step-by-Step Process in Karnataka

Applying for 12A and 80G registration in Karnataka is an online process, but having your NGO's documents and details ready beforehand makes the application much smoother. Whether your NGO operates in Bengaluru, Mysuru, Mangaluru, Hubballi, or another part of Karnataka, here's exactly how to apply:

Step 1: Complete Your Base Registration

Make sure your NGO's base registration is done. You can register as a Trust, Society, or Section 8 Company, whichever fits your work in Karnataka.

Step 2: Log In to the Income Tax E-Filing Portal

Step 3: Select the Appropriate Form

Choose the correct form based on your NGO's status:

Form 104 – if your NGO is new
Form 105 – if your NGO already has a track record

Step 4: Enter NGO Details and Upload Documents

Fill in your NGO's details and upload the required documents, including:

Registration certificate
PAN
Accounts
Work report

Step 5: Apply for 12A and 80G Together

Apply for 12A and 80G together to avoid any gap between the two.

Step 6: Submit the Application

Submit the application using your DSC (Digital Signature Certificate). After submission, note your acknowledgment number so you can track the application.

Step 7: Respond to Any Queries

If the Income Tax Department raises any questions or requests additional information, respond as quickly as possible. Slow replies can lead to delays in the application process.

12A & 80G Registration Fees & Timeline in Karnataka

The government does not charge a fixed state-wise fee for 12A and 80G registration. However, your overall cost may vary based on professional assistance, documentation, and application complexity.

What's Included	Cost
Government fee (12A and 80G)	₹0
Professional help (documents, filing, follow-up)	₹7,000 to ₹12,000
Digital Signature Certificate	₹500 to ₹2,000
Time needed	A few weeks to a few months

There's no government fee for the application itself. You pay for professional help to get it right the first time.

Want a clear, fixed-price quote? Get one built around your NGO's needs. [Get My Quote →]

Which Office Reviews Karnataka's Applications?

Every 12A and 80G application from a Karnataka NGO, no matter which city, goes to the same place: the Commissioner of Income Tax (Exemptions), Karnataka & Goa charge, based in Bengaluru. This means 12A and 80G registration in Bengaluru, Mysuru, Mangaluru, Hubballi, and Belagavi all follow the same review process. Your local city matters only for your initial registration as a Trust, Society, or Section 8 Company. The state handles NGO tax exemption approval centrally.

The Akshaya Patra Foundation, headquartered in Bengaluru and registered as a Section 8 Company, runs one of the world's largest school mid-day meal programs, feeding over two million children daily. It holds valid 12A and 80G approvals. That combination is a genuine reason it can operate at this scale: corporate donors and philanthropists funding its kitchens can claim a deduction on their contributions, while the Foundation itself doesn't pay tax on the donations it spends on food, logistics, and infrastructure. It's a real, well-documented example of what these two approvals make possible for a Karnataka NGO once they're in place.

Latest Updates in 2026

From 1 April 2026, a new law changed how these approvals are named:

12A is now officially called Section 332
80G is now officially called Section 354
Form 105 replaces the older Form 10AB for regular registration and renewal

If your NGO already had valid registration before 31 March 2026, it stays valid. The new rules apply only when you apply for fresh registration, renew, or reapply after a rejection.

For the full renewal process, read our guide on renewal of 12A and 80G registration.

Ready to Apply for 12A and 80G Registration in Karnataka?

Let NGOExperts assist you with documentation, online filing, and application follow-up.

Start My 12A & 80G Application

12A 80G Registration in Karnataka

12A and 80G registrations are central tax provisions; their impact increases in Karnataka, as it is India's premier hub for tech and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR).

As a major centre for MNC and tech giants, Karnataka, particularly Bengaluru, is a primary source of CSR funding.

The Karnataka state government often mandates these registrations for participation in its various social welfare schemes.

For NGOs in Karnataka that provide services (such as vocational training or consultancy) to other organisations, 12A-registered NGOs can apply for a Lower or Nil TDS Certificate under Section 197.

Karnataka has a high concentration of High-Net-Worth Individuals (HNIs) and professional donors who prioritise tax efficiency.

5000+

Happy Customers

2427+

NGOs Registered

3499+

Govt Registrations

Ready to Apply for 12A and 80G Registration in Karnataka?

Get expert support with documents, application filing, and follow-up for your NGO.

Start My 12A & 80G Application

What Is 12A & 80G Registration?

12A and 80G are two separate approvals from India's Income Tax Department:

12A means your NGO's own income isn't taxed, as long as you spend it on your real charitable work
80G means anyone who donates to your NGO can claim a deduction on their own taxable income
Most NGOs apply for both together, since 80G approval usually needs valid 12A status in place first
12A protects your NGO's money; 80G protects your donor's money, so together they make your NGO both tax-friendly and donor-friendly

These rules are the same everywhere in India, including Karnataka; what differs is the state law your NGO registers under first, before it ever reaches this stage.

Eligibility for 12A & 80G Registration in Karnataka

If your NGO meets the basic requirements, you can proceed with the 12A and 80G application. Here's what you need to qualify:

You're already registered as a Trust, Society, or Section 8 Company
Your PAN is in the NGO's own name, not a trustee's or director's personal PAN
Your goals are genuinely charitable: education, healthcare, poverty relief, environment, or similar public work
You're not set up to benefit only specific named people, like family members

If your NGO isn't registered yet, start with our guide to NGO registration in Bangalore.

Not Sure If Your NGO Needs 12A and 80G?

Understand the benefits, eligibility, and requirements before you apply.

Check 12A and 80G Eligibility

Documents Required for 12A & 80G Registration in Karnataka

Keep these ready before you apply for 12A & 80G Registration in Karnataka:

PAN card of the NGO
Your registration certificate: Trust Deed, Karnataka Society certificate, or Certificate of Incorporation
A No Objection Certificate (NOC) from your property owner
A recent utility bill, like a BESCOM bill, for your office
Bank statements and audited accounts, if your NGO has been active for a while
A real report of your work, with actual numbers and places
Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) of the person filing the form

12A & 80G Registration Step-by-Step Process in Karnataka

Step 1: Complete Your Base Registration

Make sure your NGO's base registration is done. You can register as a Trust, Society, or Section 8 Company, whichever fits your work in Karnataka.

Step 2: Log In to the Income Tax E-Filing Portal

Step 3: Select the Appropriate Form

Choose the correct form based on your NGO's status:

Form 104 – if your NGO is new
Form 105 – if your NGO already has a track record

Step 4: Enter NGO Details and Upload Documents

Fill in your NGO's details and upload the required documents, including:

Registration certificate
PAN
Accounts
Work report

Step 5: Apply for 12A and 80G Together

Apply for 12A and 80G together to avoid any gap between the two.

Step 6: Submit the Application

Submit the application using your DSC (Digital Signature Certificate). After submission, note your acknowledgment number so you can track the application.

Step 7: Respond to Any Queries

If the Income Tax Department raises any questions or requests additional information, respond as quickly as possible. Slow replies can lead to delays in the application process.

12A & 80G Registration Fees & Timeline in Karnataka

The government does not charge a fixed state-wise fee for 12A and 80G registration. However, your overall cost may vary based on professional assistance, documentation, and application complexity.

What's Included	Cost
Government fee (12A and 80G)	₹0
Professional help (documents, filing, follow-up)	₹7,000 to ₹12,000
Digital Signature Certificate	₹500 to ₹2,000
Time needed	A few weeks to a few months

There's no government fee for the application itself. You pay for professional help to get it right the first time.

Want a clear, fixed-price quote? Get one built around your NGO's needs. [Get My Quote →]

Which Office Reviews Karnataka's Applications?

Latest Updates in 2026

From 1 April 2026, a new law changed how these approvals are named:

12A is now officially called Section 332
80G is now officially called Section 354
Form 105 replaces the older Form 10AB for regular registration and renewal

If your NGO already had valid registration before 31 March 2026, it stays valid. The new rules apply only when you apply for fresh registration, renew, or reapply after a rejection.

For the full renewal process, read our guide on renewal of 12A and 80G registration.

Ready to Apply for 12A and 80G Registration in Karnataka?

Let NGOExperts assist you with documentation, online filing, and application follow-up.

Start My 12A & 80G Application

Frequently Asked Questions

Does my NGO need to be registered under the Karnataka Societies Registration Act to apply?

Yes. If you are a Society, you must have a valid registration from the District Registrar in Karnataka. If you are a Trust, your deed must be registered with the Sub-Registrar.

Can a Karnataka-based NGO apply for 80G without a 12A certificate?

No. Under the current 2026 rules, 12A is a mandatory prerequisite. You can file the applications simultaneously on the portal, but the department will only process your 80G after your 12A eligibility is confirmed.

Is NGO Darpan registration mandatory for Karnataka NGOs seeking 80G?

While 12A doesn't strictly require it, having a NITI Aayog Darpan ID is practically mandatory for 80G in 2026.

My NGO is registered in Bengaluru; where will my 12A/80G application be processed?

All applications are now processed digitally by the CIT (Exemptions), Bengaluru, regardless of the district in Karnataka where you are located.

Are there specific Objective Clauses required by the Karnataka authorities?

Yes. To qualify for 12A, your trust deed or MOA must include an Irrevocability Clause and a Dissolution Clause. In Karnataka, these must be explicitly mentioned and stamped to avoid rejection.

12A 80G Registration in Karnataka

Ready to Apply for 12A and 80G Registration in Karnataka?

What Is 12A & 80G Registration?

Eligibility for 12A & 80G Registration in Karnataka

Not Sure If Your NGO Needs 12A and 80G?

Documents Required for 12A & 80G Registration in Karnataka

12A & 80G Registration Step-by-Step Process in Karnataka

Step 1: Complete Your Base Registration

Step 2: Log In to the Income Tax E-Filing Portal

Step 3: Select the Appropriate Form

Step 4: Enter NGO Details and Upload Documents

Step 5: Apply for 12A and 80G Together

Step 6: Submit the Application

Step 7: Respond to Any Queries

12A & 80G Registration Fees & Timeline in Karnataka

Which Office Reviews Karnataka's Applications?

Latest Updates in 2026

Ready to Apply for 12A and 80G Registration in Karnataka?

📢Subscribe For Updates

12A 80G Registration in Karnataka

Ready to Apply for 12A and 80G Registration in Karnataka?

What Is 12A & 80G Registration?

Eligibility for 12A & 80G Registration in Karnataka

Not Sure If Your NGO Needs 12A and 80G?

Documents Required for 12A & 80G Registration in Karnataka

12A & 80G Registration Step-by-Step Process in Karnataka

Step 1: Complete Your Base Registration

Step 2: Log In to the Income Tax E-Filing Portal

Step 3: Select the Appropriate Form

Step 4: Enter NGO Details and Upload Documents

Step 5: Apply for 12A and 80G Together

Step 6: Submit the Application

Step 7: Respond to Any Queries

12A & 80G Registration Fees & Timeline in Karnataka

Which Office Reviews Karnataka's Applications?

Latest Updates in 2026

Ready to Apply for 12A and 80G Registration in Karnataka?

Frequently Asked Questions

📢Subscribe For Updates

Frequently Asked Questions