80G and 12A registrations are essential for any NGO seeking tax exemptions, donor credibility, and long-term financial sustainability. Issued by the Income Tax Department of India, these registrations empower your organization to receive tax-free income and enable your donors to claim tax deductions on their contributions.

At NGOedge, we simplify the process with expert-driven guidance, ensuring your NGO meets all compliance requirements and secures the recognition it deserves — legally and financially.

Why Register for 12A and 80G?

✅ Tax Exemption for NGO (12A)
Income of the NGO becomes tax-exempt under Section 12A of the Income Tax Act, allowing maximum fund utilization for your programs.

✅ Tax Benefits to Donors (80G)
Donors receive a 50% or 100% tax deduction on their donations under Section 80G, making your NGO more attractive to contributors.

✅ CSR & Government Grant Eligibility
Mandatory for accessing CSR funds, government grants, and international funding opportunities.

✅ Build Donor Trust
Registration enhances transparency and credibility among corporates, HNIs, and institutions.

✅ Long-term Sustainability
Tax-free status and donor incentives ensure consistent support and reduced financial pressure on operations.

Eligibility for 12A & 80G Registration

To qualify, your NGO must:

• Be registered as a Trust, Society, or Section 8 Company.

• Operate solely for charitable, educational, religious, or social welfare objectives.

• Maintain regular books of accounts and adopt transparent financial practices.

• Avoid using income for the benefit of trustees or members.

• Not engage in commercial activities as the primary purpose.

Step-by-Step Process for 12A & 80G Registration

1. Application Filing on Income Tax Portal

   • Apply online via Form 10A (for 12A) and Form 10B (for 80G) through the Income Tax Department portal.

2. Document Submission

   • Submit the founding documents (MOA, Trust Deed, Registration Certificate), PAN, financials, activity reports, and details of trustees.

3. Review by IT Department

   • The Commissioner of Income Tax reviews your application and may request clarifications or additional documents.

4. Verification and Approval

   • On successful review, your NGO will receive 12A Certificate and 80G Certificate, valid for 5 years (renewable thereafter).

Documents Required

• PAN card of the NGO

• Trust Deed / MOA & Registration Certificate

• List of Trustees / Directors with ID proof

• Audited financial statements (last 1–3 years, if available)

• Activity report

• Bank account details and canceled cheque

• Utility bill for office address

Why Choose NGOedge?

At NGOedge, we go beyond document filing. We are your strategic partners in building a compliant and donor-friendly nonprofit.

Our Strengths:

✅ 100% Accurate Filing & Compliance
✅ Advisory from Legal & Tax Experts
✅ End-to-End Support (Form 10A, 10B, documentation, follow-ups)
✅ Fastest Turnaround with Zero Hassles
✅ Guidance on Post-Approval Compliance & Renewals
✅ Support for FCRA, CSR-1, and NGO Darpan integration

At NGOedge, we specialize in simplifying this process, providing end-to-end advisory and compliance services that enable changemakers to focus on impact while we handle the intricacies of the law.

Why Register an NGO?

Registering an NGO offers a wide array of benefits:

• Legal Identity: It ensures legal recognition, allowing the organization to function as a separate entity.

• Tax Exemptions: Registered NGOs can apply for tax relief under applicable sections of the Income Tax Act, resulting in financial savings.

• Access to Grants: Only registered NGOs are eligible to apply for government schemes, CSR grants, and international funding.

• Enhanced Credibility: Legal recognition strengthens the organization’s credibility with donors, institutions, and partners.

• Government Partnerships: Registered NGOs qualify for collaborations with government bodies through initiatives like NGO Darpan.

• Brand Value & Visibility: Registration enhances brand legitimacy and social influence, increasing volunteer and donor engagement.

• Legal Safeguards: Founders enjoy protection from personal liability as the NGO becomes a separate legal entity.

Types of NGO Registration in India

NGOs in India can be registered under one of the following legal structures:

1. Trust

A Public Charitable Trust is ideal for those aiming to manage assets for philanthropic activities. Governed by the Indian Trusts Act, 1882, it requires at least two trustees and a trust deed that defines the objectives and governance framework.

Key Features:

• Simplified formation process

• Can own immovable property

• Limited liability for trustees

2. Society

A Society is a membership-based organization that works for charitable, literary, or scientific purposes. It is governed by the Societies Registration Act, 1860, and must consist of at least seven members.

Key Features:

• Flexible governance

• Easy to modify bylaws

• Suitable for civic and welfare initiatives

3. Section 8 Company

A Section 8 Company is incorporated under the Companies Act, 2013, and is ideal for organizations seeking a structured, scalable, and transparent model with national or international operations.

Key Features:

• National operating scope

• High credibility and transparency

• Eligible for foreign contributions under FCRA

Eligibility Criteria for NGO Registration

To qualify for NGO registration in India, an organization must:

• Operate with a non-profit motive focused on social welfare.

• Have a clearly drafted Memorandum of Association (MOA) outlining its objectives.

• Maintain transparent financial practices and conduct regular audits.

• Appoint a Board of Directors/Trustees with relevant experience in social work.

• Avoid any form of discrimination based on caste, religion, gender, etc.

• Ensure that activities align with national and local laws and contribute to societal welfare.

Step-by-Step Registration Process

Trust Registration

1. Name Selection – Unique and distinguishable.

2. Identify Settler & Trustees – Minimum of two trustees.

3. Draft MOA & Trust Deed – Include objectives, governance, powers, and dispute mechanisms.

4. Submission to Registrar – Along with affidavits and stamp papers.

5. Registration Certificate Issued – Upon successful verification.

Society Registration

1. Application Filing – With state Registrar of Societies.

2. MOA & Bylaws Drafting – Signed by founding members.

3. Board Resolution – Appointing office-bearers.

4. Affidavit Submission – On stamp paper declaring legitimacy.

5. Fee Payment & Certificate Issuance – Varies by state.

Section 8 Company Registration

1. Obtain DSC & DIN – For all proposed directors.

2. Name Reservation – Via MCA’s RUN (Reserve Unique Name) service.

3. Prepare Documentation – MOA, AOA, address and ID proofs.

4. Filing with MCA – Through SPICe+ form on the MCA portal.

5. Verification & Registration Certificate – Issued upon approval.

Why Choose NGOedge?

At NGOedge, we don’t just assist in documentation—we partner in your mission. Our experienced professionals guide you through the legal maze so that you can concentrate on creating meaningful social impact.

What sets us apart:

• ✅ Expert Legal & Compliance Advisory

• ✅ Tailored Consulting for Trusts, Societies & Section 8 Companies

• ✅ End-to-End Service from Drafting to Certification

• ✅ Faster Turnaround with Complete Accuracy

• ✅ Dedicated Support for FCRA, 80G, 12A & NGO Darpan