Trust & Society Registration
Legal Entities for Charitable and Educational PurposesTrust vs. Society: Which NPO is Right for You?
**Trusts** and **Societies** are the two primary ways to register a **Non-Profit Organisation (NPO)** in India, besides a Section 8 Company. They are typically used for education, poverty relief, medical aid, or cultural promotion.
**Trusts** are governed by a Trust Deed (generally for private and family NPOs), while **Societies** are governed by the Societies Registration Act, requiring more members and formal democratic structures (better for public projects and educational institutions).
Trust Requirements
- **Minimum Trustees:** 2
- **Governed by:** Trust Deed
- **Ideal For:** Private/Family Trusts, Endowments
Society Requirements
- **Minimum Members:** 7 (State level)
- **Governed by:** Memorandum of Association
- **Ideal For:** Schools, Hospitals, Research Centres
Common Benefits of NPO Registration
Tax Exemptions (80G/12A)
Eligibility to apply for income tax exemption and provide tax benefits to donors.
Legal Identity
Allows the organization to own assets, enter into contracts, and manage funds legally.
Eligibility for Grants
Mandatory status to receive government funding, grants, and international aid (FCRA).
Trust/Society Registration Process
Drafting Documents
Drafting of the comprehensive **Trust Deed** or **Society Memorandum of Association (MoA) and Bye-Laws**.
Member Signatures & Stamp Duty
Collecting signatures from trustees/members and execution of the Deed on appropriate stamp paper.
Registration Authority Filing
Filing the documents with the local Registrar (Sub-Registrar for Trust, Registrar of Societies for Society).
PAN, TAN & Bank Account
Obtaining permanent PAN/TAN and facilitating the opening of the NPO's bank account.
Trust/Society Registration Package
Register your NPO correctly and ensure compliance for future grant eligibility:
NPO Standard Plan
- ✔ Drafting Trust Deed / MoA & Byelaws
- ✔ Registration with Local Authority
- ✔ Assistance with Stamp Duty Formalities
- ✔ PAN & TAN Application
- ✔ 3 Months Advisory Support
- ✔ **12A & 80G** Application Guidance