NGO REGISTRATION

Are you looking for NGO registration in Patna, NGO Registration in Bihar or Ranchi or Jharkhand or in other place of India? If yes, Call or whatsapp at+91-8540099000 or email us at info@meerad.in to talk to the best NGO Consultant of Bihar and Jharkhand. From 2013, we have served more than 10000 entrepreneurs directly or indirectly. Our focus from our inception is to provide to our customers best of services and satisfaction. Where focus of other companies could be to earn money but our focus has always been to provide best and timely services to our customers and at the same time, to keep costs to minimum and lower than the market rate.

ngo registration

What is an NGO??

A non-governmental organization (NGO) is an organization that is neither a part of a government nor is formed for-profit business. Usually it is set up by ordinary citizens, NGOs may be funded by governments, foundations, businesses, or private persons.

Purpose/Objectives of NGOs:

1. Social Welfare
2. Up-lifting living conditions of weaker sections of society
3. Preservation of cultures, traditions and languages
4. Carry out research and studies
5. Carry out activities of social importance

Non Governmental Organisations are such organisations that are formed for non profit motive and primarily for welfare of the society. Thus, NGOs are social institutions, working for benefit of weaker parts of society or for carrying out activities for welfare of society. It could be working for “eradication of poverty” or creating awareness of ” causes of malnutrition”. There are primarily three types of institutions which are called as “NGOs” such as Trust, Society and Non Profitable company. Where as trusts are registered under Indian Trust Act, Societies are registered under Indian Society Registration Act and Non Profitable companies are registered under section 25 of Indian Companies Act, 2013.

Here’s the full-length version of the article👇

NGO Registration in India: A Complete 2000-Word Guide by Meerad

Starting an NGO is one of the noblest ways to contribute to society. Whether your dream is to educate underprivileged children, protect the environment, empower women, or provide healthcare in rural areas, having a registered NGO gives your vision a legal foundation and credibility.

However, registering an NGO in India can seem complicated — with multiple types, legal compliances, and documentation requirements. Don’t worry — this detailed guide will walk you through every step and help you understand how you can easily register your NGO in Patna or anywhere in India with the help of Meerad, one of the most trusted CA firms for NGO registration and compliance services.

What is an NGO?

NGO stands for Non-Governmental Organization, a non-profit entity formed to serve society and work toward social, cultural, environmental, educational, or charitable causes.

Unlike a company or business that focuses on generating profit, NGOs use their funds for social welfare activities and public good. These organizations can receive funds from members, the public, corporate CSR, or government grants to carry out their objectives.

NGOs can be small community-based groups or large organizations operating at the national and international levels.

Why Register an NGO?

Many people start social initiatives informally, but without registration, such organizations face limitations. Registering an NGO gives you:

Legal Recognition:
You get a separate legal identity, allowing the NGO to open bank accounts, acquire property, and enter contracts.
Trust and Credibility:
Donors, government agencies, and corporates prefer to fund only registered NGOs because they ensure transparency and accountability.
Tax Benefits:
Once registered, NGOs can apply for 12A and 80G certificates to get income tax exemptions and offer tax benefits to donors.
Access to Funding:
Government grants, CSR funds, and foreign contributions are available only to legally registered NGOs.
Continuity:
A registered NGO continues even if founders leave, ensuring the organization’s purpose is sustained long-term.

Types of NGO Registration in India

There are three main types of NGO registration in India, depending on your objectives and structure:

1. Trust Registration

A Trust is one of the oldest and simplest forms of NGO registration, governed by the Indian Trusts Act, 1882. It is created when a person (called the “author”) transfers property or money to trustees for a charitable or religious purpose.

Example:
An individual donates property to a trust that runs a school for poor children.

Key Highlights:

Minimum two trustees required
Managed by a board of trustees
No central authority for registration — it is registered with local sub-registrar offices
Suitable for family-led charities or religious trusts

Documents Required:

Trust Deed (main document)
ID proof of trustees
Address proof of registered office
Passport-size photos of trustees

2. Society Registration

A Society is governed by the Societies Registration Act, 1860, and is usually formed by a group of people working for a common social cause like education, culture, or welfare.

Societies operate democratically, electing members to a managing committee.

Example:
A group of doctors forming a society to provide free medical camps in villages.

Key Highlights:

Minimum seven members required
Open and democratic management
Suitable for welfare associations and educational institutions
Requires regular meetings and elections

Documents Required:

Memorandum of Association (MOA)
Rules and Regulations of the society
ID proof of members
Address proof of office

3. Section 8 Company Registration

A Section 8 Company is the most structured and credible form of NGO registration, governed by the Companies Act, 2013.

It functions like a private limited company but works for charitable purposes instead of profit. Any income generated must be used for promoting the objectives of the NGO.

Example:
An NGO promoting renewable energy awareness across India through workshops and government partnerships.

Key Highlights:

Minimum two directors and two shareholders required
High legal credibility
Eligible for CSR funding and foreign donations
Must comply with annual MCA filings and audits

Documents Required:

PAN and Aadhaar of directors
Registered office proof
MOA and AOA
Declaration under INC-14 and INC-15 forms

Step-by-Step Process of NGO Registration

Whether you choose to register as a Trust, Society, or Section 8 Company, the general process follows these steps:

Select NGO Type:
Decide which structure suits your purpose — Trust, Society, or Section 8 Company.
Choose a Unique Name:
Pick a meaningful name that reflects your mission. Make sure it’s not already in use.
Draft Legal Documents:
- For Trust: Trust Deed
- For Society: MOA & Rules and Regulations
- For Section 8: MOA & AOA
Prepare Required Documents:
Collect PAN, Aadhaar, photographs, address proof, and office proof.
Submit Application:
File with the appropriate Registrar — Sub-Registrar (for Trust), Registrar of Societies, or Registrar of Companies (for Section 8).
Verification:
Authorities verify your documents and objectives.
Registration Certificate:
After successful verification, you’ll receive your registration certificate — the legal birth of your NGO.
Post Registration Compliance:
- Apply for PAN
- Open bank account
- Apply for 12A and 80G registrations
- Maintain accounts and records

Tax Benefits for Registered NGOs

Once your NGO is registered, you can apply for several tax exemptions and benefits:

1. 12A Registration

Exempts the NGO’s income from tax.
Without it, donations received may be taxable.

2. 80G Registration

Allows donors to claim tax deduction on donations made to your NGO.
Increases credibility and donations.

3. FCRA Registration

Required to receive foreign donations or grants.
Must be applied for separately through the Ministry of Home Affairs.

Key Points to Remember

NGOs must maintain proper books of accounts.
Annual audits are mandatory.
Regular filing of annual reports and returns is required.
For Section 8 Companies, MCA compliance is compulsory.

Failure to comply with these can lead to penalties or cancellation of registration.

Common Challenges in NGO Registration

Many first-time applicants face these hurdles:

Confusion about which structure to choose
Rejection due to incomplete or incorrect documentation
Lack of clarity on tax and compliance laws
Difficulty in getting 12A, 80G, or FCRA approvals

That’s why professional assistance makes all the difference.

Why Choose Meerad for NGO Registration in Patna, Bihar?

Registering and running an NGO involves legal, financial, and compliance complexities — but Meerad takes care of all of them for you.

We’re not just a CA firm — we’re your trusted partner in building and growing your social mission legally and sustainably.

1. One-Stop Solution

From NGO registration to 12A, 80G, FCRA, and audit services — we handle everything under one roof.

2. Expert Guidance

Our Chartered Accountants and legal experts guide you on the best structure for your NGO based on your goals and scale.

3. Transparent and Affordable

We believe in transparent pricing and honest advisory. No hidden charges, no delays — just simple and efficient services.

4. Tailored for Bihar NGOs

If you’re setting up an NGO in Patna or anywhere in Bihar, we understand the local laws, departments, and processes — ensuring a smooth registration experience.

5. Post-Registration Support

Meerad doesn’t stop at registration. We also help you with:

Annual audits
Compliance filing
Tax exemption renewals
Financial reporting and project budgeting

Real-Life Example

Imagine a group of teachers in Patna wanting to provide free coaching to underprivileged students. Initially, they run it informally but soon realize they can’t accept donations or apply for grants.

They approach Meerad. We analyze their goals and suggest registering as a Section 8 Company for credibility.
We help them:

Choose a suitable name
Draft MOA and AOA
Get registration certificate
Obtain 12A and 80G exemption

In less than a month, their NGO becomes a registered legal entity eligible for government and CSR funding.

FAQs on NGO Registration

Q1. What is the minimum number of members required to start an NGO?
For a Trust – 2 trustees, for a Society – 7 members, and for a Section 8 Company – 2 directors.

Q2. How long does NGO registration take?
Usually between 15 to 30 days depending on document verification and type of registration.

Q3. Can a registered NGO earn income?
Yes, but the income must be used for the NGO’s objectives, not distributed as profit.

Q4. Can an NGO receive foreign donations?
Yes, after obtaining FCRA registration.

Q5. What’s the difference between 12A and 80G?
12A gives tax exemption to the NGO itself, while 80G gives tax benefits to donors.

Q6. Can a single person start an NGO?
No. A minimum of two people are needed for Trusts or Section 8, and seven for Societies.

Conclusion

Registering your NGO is not just a legal process — it’s the foundation for your mission to create real social impact. A registered NGO gains recognition, credibility, and access to funding — all essential for long-term success.

If you’re planning to start an NGO in Patna, Bihar, or anywhere in India, let Meerad be your trusted partner. From registration to annual compliance, our team of Chartered Accountants and legal professionals ensures a smooth, transparent, and affordable process.

📞 Contact Meerad Today!
Phone: +91-85400-99000
Email: info@meerad.in
Address: A98, Bindapur Matiala Road, Uttam Nagar, New Delhi, India – 110059

Take the first step toward creating lasting change — and let Meerad handle the paperwork while you focus on changing lives.