Overview of NGO Registration
An organization that has a distinct and well-defined social cause or program and is involved in activities that work to improve society. NGOs do not denote a profit-making enterprise or constitute an arm of the state. These voluntary, state-independent organizations work to benefit society on a variety of fronts, including but not restricted to issues pertaining to culture, society, education, and religion. Learning how to register an NGO online is always a good idea, and our knowledgeable team is ready to help!
A non-governmental organization or NGO is a legally registered organization launched by natural persons and it operates independently without any interference of the state or central government. The government refers to these entities as "NGO" to indicate that they do not have official status. NGOs are basically engaged in cultural, social, legal, and environmental-related activities without any aim of profit.
Why NGO Registration in India is Recommended?
NGO Registration is advised if you want to form a non-profit organisation and if you want to work to enhance or better any particular region or place of society since it will be clear to the law that you are doing so. It is always better to do any social work or activity under the evidence of the law.
Which Types of NGO Registration Are Available in India?
In India, there are three different kinds of NGO registration. Let's examine each of them in more detail:
Trust: In India, the process of formally establishing a trust is known as trust registration. A trust is a kind of non-profit organization (NPO) founded to support and advance specific causes, like education, healthcare, and neighbourhood growth. The Indian Trusts Act 1882 governs the process of registering a trust, which is typically handled by a group of professionals and legal experts.
Society: A society is registered under the Indian Societies Act 1860. The standard requirements for its development are similar to the Trust formation. The only distinction is that family members cannot be in a society. Minimum members required in a society formation are seven and all seven must be from different states for a nationwide level NGO.
Section 8 Company: Businesses established under the Corporations Act of 2013 for charitable or social purposes are known as Section 8 corporations. They operate much like traditional businesses, but their primary objective is to further the common good. Under the Companies Act of 2013, they are able to register, with certain benefits and limitations.
What Is India's System of Classification for NGOs?
Here is a list of the different categories that NGOs in India fall under:
Depending on the level of orientation: Empowering, charitable, service, participatory, and so forth.
Depending on the level of operation: Community-Based, City-Wide, National, and International NGOs.
Minimum Requirements for NGO Registration
- A minimum of 2 directors is required for the Section 8 company to be incorporated as a private limited company.
- A minimum of 3 directors is required for the Section 8 company to be registered as a public limited company.
- India should be the home of at least one director.
- The address of the registered office.
- The company's sole goal should be to further social or charitable causes.
- The earnings are not transferable to the stockholders.
Documents Required for NGO Registration in India
Registering a Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) in India involves submitting key documentation to validate the identity, address, and intent of the organization's founders. Below is a list of essential documents required for NGO registration:
- Passport-Size Photographs: Recent passport-size photographs of all directors or founding members.
- Copy of Aadhaar Card: Mandatory identity proof for the directors to confirm Indian citizenship and residency.
- Copy of Driving License or Voter ID: Secondary government-issued ID for additional verification.
- Copy of PAN Card: PAN card is essential for tax and regulatory compliance of the NGO.
- Address Proof: A recent bank statement or utility bill (not older than 2 months) to verify the residential address of the directors.
- No Objection Certificate (NOC): A certificate of no objection from the property owner of the registered office address.
Ensuring all documents are complete and up to date streamlines the NGO registration process and helps avoid legal or administrative delays.
Procedure for NGO Registration in India
Registering an NGO in India under Section 8 of the Companies Act, 2013 involves a systematic process to obtain legal recognition, tax benefits, and operational rights. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
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Apply for a Certificate of Digital Signature (DSC)
Directors must obtain a DSC from a certified authority to securely sign digital documents required for registration.
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Requesting Availability of Name
Choose a unique name for your NGO and ensure it complies with MCA norms. Submit it via the RUN (Reserve Unique Name) service on the MCA portal.
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Submitting a Section 8 License Application
Apply for a Section 8 License by submitting required documents including objectives, director details, and declarations through Form INC-12.
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SPICe Form (INC-32) Filing
File Form INC-32 (SPICe) which integrates the incorporation process, including DIN allotment and company registration.
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e-MOA (INC-33) and e-AOA (INC-34) Filing
File the electronic versions of Memorandum of Association (e-MOA) and Articles of Association (e-AOA) to define the objectives and governance.
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Certificates of Incorporation, TAN, and PAN are Issued
Upon approval, the Certificate of Incorporation, PAN, and TAN are issued by the Registrar of Companies.
Documents You’ll Get After NGO Incorporation
- Certificate of Incorporation
- Section 8 License
- Permanent Account Number (PAN) of the Company
- Articles of Association
- Memorandum of Association (MOA)
- Director Identification Number (DIN)
- Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)
- EPF and ESIC Registration Documents
- Company Master Data
Duration Required to Register an NGO
Section 8 Company registration takes approximately 10–14 days. Trusts take about 20 days, while Society registration requires 25 days.
Benefits of NGO Registration
- Tax Exemptions: Registered NGOs can access exemptions under income tax, customs duties, and property tax, enhancing financial sustainability.
- Legal Recognition: Registration establishes the NGO as a distinct legal entity, increasing credibility with stakeholders and donors.
- Ability to Purchase Assets: NGOs can legally buy or sell land and retain fixed assets.
- Organizational Structure: Registration enables structured governance, ensuring transparency and accountability.
- Increased Visibility: Enhances credibility and opens doors for collaborations and partnerships.
- Legal Protection and Benefits: Registered NGOs are protected by law and can initiate legal proceedings.
- Accountability and Transparency: Regular audits and reporting increase stakeholder trust and organizational discipline.
How to Raise Funds for NGOs in India?
- Events: Organize events to mobilize funds and raise awareness.
- Personal Solicitation: Meet donors directly to build trust and support.
- Network Fundraising: Engage friends and networks to expand donor base.
- Online Fundraising: Use platforms and social media for fast, wide-reaching campaigns.
- Volunteering: Leverage volunteer time and skills cost-effectively.
- Donations in Kind: Accept goods and services as contributions.
- School and Youth Engagement: Educate and involve young people for support and awareness.
- Periodic Donations: Encourage long-term support through recurring donations.
- Collections: Run various types of donation drives in public spaces.
- Product Sales: Sell goods with profits going to your cause.
- Corporate Partnerships: Partner with companies for funding, sponsorships, and matched donations.
- Crowdfunding: Raise quick funds for specific projects via online platforms.
Why Choose Kanakkupillai?
At Kanakkupillai, we guide you through the NGO registration journey with precision and professionalism. Our services include:
- Expert Consultation: We help you select the best form of NGO based on your vision.
- Complete Documentation: Meticulous attention to legal paperwork and requirements.
- Time Efficiency: Fast processing and prompt coordination with authorities.
- Comprehensive Support: Assistance in tax filing, funding strategies, and ongoing compliance post-registration.
Partner with Kanakkupillai to register your NGO with ease and confidence, laying the foundation for lasting impact.
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