TRUST/SOCIETY REGISTRATION
Behind every social cause lies a structure that gives it legitimacy — legal registration as a Trust or Society.
Whether you’re running an NGO, school, or community project, registration ensures transparency, accountability, and eligibility for government benefits. It’s not just paperwork — it’s the foundation of credibility and continuity for your mission-driven organization.
Documents Required
For Trust Registration:
- Trust Deed (on non-judicial stamp paper)
- Identity & Address Proof of Settlor and Trustees
- Passport-size Photographs of Trustees
- PAN Card of Settlor and Trustees
- Registered Office Proof (Rent Agreement or Ownership Document)
- Utility Bill (Electricity/Water) as address proof
- NOC from Property Owner
- Details of property/assets (if any) transferred to the trust
For Society Registration:
- Memorandum of Association (MOA)
- Rules & Regulations / Bye-laws of Society
- List of Governing Body Members (minimum 7)
- ID & Address Proof of all Members
- Passport-size Photographs
- PAN Card of Society (if available)
- Address Proof of Registered Office
- NOC from Property Owner
- Minutes of First Meeting
- Affidavit declaring non-profit nature
FAQs
A Trust is managed by trustees based on a deed, while a Society is managed by elected members under democratic procedures with periodic elections.
Only if the beneficiaries are the general public. If benefits are restricted to family members, it will be treated as a private trust.
Yes, provided they have a valid passport, visa, and address proof in India.
12A gives tax exemption to the organization’s income. 80G allows donors to claim tax deduction on donations made.
Failure to file returns for five consecutive years can lead to cancellation of registration.
Only after obtaining FCRA (Foreign Contribution Regulation Act) registration from the Ministry of Home Affairs.