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Register Your NGO, Trust or Society with Lawfinity
Get legal recognition, tax benefits, and open access to government and CSR funding. Fast & compliant registration process.
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Know More About NGO / Society / Trust Registration
Introduction and Its Compliance
NGOs (Non-Governmental Organizations), Societies and Trusts are non-profit entities formed for charitable, religious, educational, scientific, social welfare or similar purposes. These organizations play a vital role in serving the public and addressing societal issues.
They are governed by different laws in India: Trusts are registered under the Indian Trusts Act, 1882 (for private trusts) or applicable state trust acts (for public trusts). Societies are registered under the Societies Registration Act, 1860.
Compliances include maintenance of accounts, filing annual returns, audits, FCRA registration (for foreign contributions) and timely renewals and updates depending on the type of registration.
Why It Is Needed
Registration of an NGO, society or trust gives it a legal identity, making it eligible for government grants, tax exemptions, foreign donations (FCRA) and credibility among donors.
It also provides transparency, structure and legal protection to the activities being conducted. Without registration, it is difficult to open a bank account, sign contracts or gain public trust.
Benefits and Advantages
- Legal Recognition Registration provides the NGO or trust with a legal identity, allowing it to own property, enter into contracts and open a bank account in its name.
- Tax Benefits Registered NGOs can apply for tax exemptions under sections 12A and 80G of the Income Tax Act, benefiting both the organization and its donors.
- Credibility & Trust Legal status increases donor confidence, making it easier to raise funds from individuals, corporate and government bodies.
- Access to Grants and Funding Registered entities can apply for government schemes, CSR funds and even foreign contributions through FCRA registration.
- Continuity The organization can operate perpetually regardless of changes in its members or trustees, ensuring long-term impact.
Eligibility Criteria
Trust
- Requires a minimum of two trustees (some states may need three)
- Generally used for charitable or religious purposes
Society
- Requires at least 7 members
- One member must be from a different state (for national-level societies)
General
- All members must be above 18 years of age and of sound mind
Documents Required
Trust Registration
- Trust Deed (with details of trustees, objectives, rules)
- ID and address proof of all trustees
- Passport-sized photos
- PAN of trustees
- Proof of registered office (electricity bill, rent agreement, NOC)
Society Registration
- Memorandum of Association (MOA)
- Rules & Regulations of Society
- ID and address proof of all members
- Address proof of office
- Declaration by president and secretary
Steps for Getting Registration
- For Trust: Draft Trust Deed → Notarize → Submit to Sub-Registrar → Get Registration Certificate
- For Society: Draft MOA & Rules → Collect member proofs → Submit to Registrar → Receive Registration Certificate
Timelines
Trust Registration
7 to 10 working days
Society Registration
10 to 15 working days
Our services include guidance, documentation support, and application facilitation. It is important to note that we are not a government department, not a government-run website, and not affiliated with any government authority in any capacity. The role of lawfinity.in is purely that of a professional consultant.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Because every great business starts with the right answers.
Yes, but it cannot receive donations in its name, claim tax exemptions or enjoy legal recognition.
Yes, but there may be additional documentation and regulatory approvals required.
Yes, even if they are exempted, annual income tax returns and audits are mandatory.
FCRA (Foreign Contribution Regulation Act) registration is needed to legally accept donations from foreign sources.
They can generate surplus but must reinvest it in the organization’s charitable activities. Profits cannot be distributed.
After registration, use the certificate, PAN and trust deed/MOA to open a bank account in the organization's name.
For Trusts, at least 2 trustees are required; Societies need 7; and Section 8 Companies need 2 directors/shareholders.
An NGO can run business activities if profits are utilized solely for the achievement of its charitable objectives.
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