NGO Registration

NGO Registration - Introduction

Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) registration is the formal process by which an organization gains legal recognition as a non-profit entity. This recognition is essential for NGOs to operate legally, access funding, and engage in various activities aimed at addressing social, environmental, or humanitarian issues.

NGO registration offers several benefits, including eligibility for tax exemptions or deductions, access to government grants or funding, and increased credibility and legitimacy in the eyes of donors, partners, and beneficiaries. However, the registration process can vary significantly depending on the country's legal framework and administrative procedures, which may involve lengthy paperwork, bureaucratic hurdles, and sometimes political considerations.

When considering NGO registration online, it can be difficult to know which type of organization is right for you. Depending on your goals, starting a Trust, a Society, or a Non-Profit Company (Section 8 Company) may be the best fit. Our team at NGOExperts can provide you with the knowledge & guidance you need to make an informed decision. Let us help you start your journey towards creating positive change for your community today.

Types of NGO Registration in India

Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) are vital players in India's social sector. However, before they can commence operations, NGOs must undergo a rigorous registration process with the government. There are three primary types of NGO registration in India, namely, Trust, Society & Section 8.

1. Trust

A trust is a legal arrangement where property or assets are held by a trustee for the benefit of others. In NGO registration, a public charitable trust is created where the trustees hold & administer assets for charitable purposes. It is the most preferred form of registration for NGOs that seek to work with philanthropic intentions. Trusts are governed by the Indian Trusts Act of 1882, which requires a minimum of two trustees & a trust deed that outlines the organization's objectives, mode of operation, & distribution of assets during dissolution.

2. Society

A society is not formed for the sole purpose of making a profit. Societies are membership organizations that operate within a particular set of rules & regulations agreed upon by its members. They are registered under the Societies Registration Act of 1860 & regulated by state authorities. Societies are ideal for NGOs that aim to support civic & welfare projects, as they require seven or more members to register, & the governing body must contain a president, vice-president, secretary, & treasurer.

3. Section 8 Company

Also known as a non-profit company or a section 8 company, this registration is preferred by NGOs that intend to carry out social, charitable, or philanthropic activities but are also concerned with the organization's long-term sustainability. Section 8 companies are created under the Companies Act of 2013 & have to be registered with the Ministry of Corporate Affairs. Unlike other types of NGOs, they can operate across India & are allowed to receive contributions from foreign donors. However, they must satisfy strict compliance requirements under the Companies Act, such as having a board of directors with a minimum of two directors.

Choose NGOExperts for your successful NGO registration online & compliance needs & you can rest assured you're in good hands. Our team of legal experts will guide you through the NGO registration process with ease. Skip the paperwork & trust us.

Benefits of NGO Registration

Registering an NGO (Non-Governmental Organization) offers several benefits, including:

Eligibility for NGO Registration Online

When it comes to establishing a Non-Governmental Organization (NGO), there are certain criteria that must be fulfilled to be considered eligible for ngo registration.

Process of NGO Registration Online

Each type of NGO registration process requires adhering to a specific set of laws & procedures prescribed in the applicable act (trusts, societies, & section 8 companies). Here, at NGOExperts, we will offer you a detailed step by step process of each & every type of ngo registration.

1. Trust Registration

Step 1. Name of the Trust

The first step towards the registration of a Trust is deciding on a name for the Trust. The name should be unique & not identical or confusingly similar to the name of any other registered Trust or individual.

Step 2. Decide Settlers/Trustees of the Trust

According to the Indian Trusts Act, 1882, a Trust must have a minimum of two Trustees. The Settler should be a person who sets up the Trust, and the other Trustees should work for the goals & objectives of the Trust. Further, the Authors are individuals who prepare the Memorandum & Trust Deed of the Trust. The Settlers, Trustees, & Authors must be individuals of sound mind, over the age of 18, & must not be disqualified from entering into a contract.

Step 3. Form MOA for Trust

The Memorandum of Association (MOA) is a legal document containing the name of the Trust, its registered address, & the main objectives of the Trust. It must be drafted in duplicate.

Step 4. Draft the Trust Deed

When applying for trust registration certificate & drafting a trust deed registration, it is essential to include certain key elements:

Step 5. Submit the Trust Deed to Registrar

Once the MOA & Trust Deed have been drafted, they must be printed on non-judicial stamp paper of an adequate value, signed by the Settler & Trustees, & witnessed by two witnesses. The documents, along with the necessary affidavit, must be submitted to the Registrar of Trusts, along with the prescribed trust registration fees.

Step 6. Obtain Certificate of Trust Registration

Upon satisfactory scrutiny of the documents, the Registrar will register the Trust & issue a Trust Registration Certificate. The registration process usually takes around 7 working days but once completed, you can also look for the Trust Registration certificate download online.