Society Registration

If you’ve ever thought about starting an organization for education, cultural promotion, environmental awareness, or social development — then society registration is one of the best and most credible legal options in India.

A society gives your group a formal structure, making it easier to raise funds, enter into contracts, and gain government recognition. Whether you are a group of volunteers, teachers, artists, or social reformers, registering a society turns your vision into a recognized legal entity.

Society. registration

This detailed guide explains everything about society registration — from meaning and benefits to the registration process, documentation, and how Meerad can help you get your society registered smoothly and quickly in Patna, Bihar, or anywhere in India.

What is a Society?

A Society is a non-profit organization formed by a group of people with a shared objective of promoting charitable, cultural, literary, or social welfare causes.

Societies in India are governed by the Societies Registration Act, 1860, and must have a Memorandum of Association (MOA) and Rules & Regulations that define their objectives and operations.

In simpler words, a society is a collective effort of like-minded individuals working towards the betterment of society without any profit motive.

Example:

A group of teachers forming a society to provide free education to underprivileged children.
A group of doctors forming a society to organize free health camps.
Environmentalists forming a society to promote tree plantation and waste management.

Why Register a Society?

Many people run social organizations informally, but registration offers several benefits that informal groups can’t enjoy.

Here’s why society registration is essential:

Legal Recognition:
Registration gives your organization a separate legal identity — it can own property, open bank accounts, and enter into contracts in its name.
Credibility:
Donors, government bodies, and corporates prefer funding registered societies due to their legal transparency.
Tax Benefits:
Registered societies can apply for 12A and 80G certificates to enjoy tax exemptions and help donors claim deductions.
Government Grants:
Many state and central government schemes provide funds or support only to registered societies.
Perpetual Existence:
A registered society continues to exist even if its members change — ensuring continuity of your mission.
Transparency:
A registered society must maintain records, conduct meetings, and file annual returns, which increases public trust.

Who Can Register a Society?

Any group of at least seven people can form a society in India. These members can be:

Individuals
Companies
Partnerships
Registered bodies

At least one of the members must be a resident of India.

Purposes for Which a Society Can Be Formed

The Societies Registration Act allows formation of societies for various objectives, such as:

Promotion of education, science, literature, or arts
Charitable or religious causes
Environmental protection and sustainable development
Health and sanitation awareness
Sports and recreation
Preservation of natural or cultural heritage
Women and child welfare
Rural development and poverty eradication

Basically, if your purpose benefits the public or a specific community, you can register a society.

Documents Required for Society Registration

Before applying for registration, prepare the following documents:

PAN card and Aadhaar card of all members
Passport-size photographs of all members
Address proof of all members (Voter ID/Driving License)
Registered office address proof (electricity bill or rent agreement)
NOC from property owner for using the premises as the society’s registered office
Memorandum of Association (MOA) stating:
- Name of society
- Registered office address
- Aims and objectives
- Names and addresses of governing members
Rules & Regulations describing how the society will function
Covering letter signed by all founding members

Step-by-Step Process of Society Registration

The registration process may vary slightly by state, but here’s a general step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Choose a Unique Name

The first step is to select a name for your society.

The name should be unique and not identical to any existing registered society or government entity.
Avoid using words like “Government”, “India”, or “National” unless permitted.

Step 2: Draft Memorandum of Association (MOA)

MOA acts like the constitution of the society. It defines:

The objectives of the society
Details of members
The official address
Governance structure

Step 3: Draft Rules and Regulations

These outline the internal management of the society, including:

Procedure for membership
Rights and duties of members
Frequency of meetings
Election process of office bearers
Maintenance of accounts

Step 4: Prepare the Documents

Gather identity proofs, address proofs, photographs, and office proof. Ensure all documents are self-attested by members.

Step 5: Submit the Application

File your application with the Registrar of Societies in your district or state, along with the required fee and documents.

Step 6: Verification by Registrar

The Registrar reviews the documents and may ask for clarifications or corrections.

Step 7: Issuance of Registration Certificate

After verification, the Registrar issues the Certificate of Registration, officially recognizing your society.

Once this certificate is issued, your society becomes a legal entity that can open bank accounts, own property, and operate independently.

Post-Registration Compliances for Societies

Once your society is registered, you need to comply with the following ongoing requirements:

Maintain Proper Records:
Keep minutes of meetings, financial statements, and membership registers updated.
Conduct Regular Meetings:
Annual General Meetings (AGM) must be held as per the society’s rules.
File Annual Returns:
Submit annual reports and accounts to the Registrar of Societies.
Renew Registration (if required):
Some states require periodic renewal of registration.
Audit Accounts:
Annual audit by a Chartered Accountant is mandatory to maintain transparency.
Apply for 12A and 80G Registrations:
To claim tax benefits for your society and its donors.

Difference Between Trust, Society, and Section 8 Company

Particulars	Trust	Society	Section 8 Company
Law	Indian Trusts Act, 1882	Societies Registration Act, 1860	Companies Act, 2013
Members Required	2+	7+	2 Directors & 2 Shareholders
Control	Trustees	Managing Committee	Board of Directors
Suitable For	Family/Religious Charities	Educational, Cultural, Social Causes	Professional NGOs
Compliance Level	Low	Moderate	High
Funding Opportunities	Limited	Moderate	High

Benefits of Society Registration

Legal Identity:
Your society can open bank accounts, own land, or enter contracts in its own name.
Better Funding Opportunities:
Registered societies are eligible for government and CSR grants.
Tax Advantages:
Eligible for 12A and 80G registrations to save tax and attract donations.
Transparency & Accountability:
Annual filings and audits build trust with donors and authorities.
Ease of Management:
The governing body manages day-to-day affairs democratically.
Continuity:
Even if members change, the society continues as a perpetual legal entity.

Example: How Society Registration Helps

Let’s say a group of youth volunteers in Patna want to start a campaign for “Clean Ganga.” Initially, they organize events informally but face issues while collecting donations or approaching authorities.

They decide to register as a society. With Meerad’s help:

They draft the MOA and Rules.
File for registration with the Bihar Registrar of Societies.
Obtain registration and later apply for 12A and 80G certificates.

Now, they can open a bank account, collect CSR funds, and expand operations legally.

Why Choose Meerad for Society Registration in Patna, Bihar?

Getting a society registered involves legal documentation, drafting, and compliance — areas where professional assistance is crucial.

Here’s why Meerad is your ideal partner for society registration:

1. Expert Legal Assistance

Our Chartered Accountants and legal professionals ensure your MOA and rules are legally sound and accepted without delays.

2. Complete Guidance

From choosing the right name to filing annual returns — we provide end-to-end support.

3. Quick and Hassle-Free Process

We handle all the paperwork, coordination, and follow-up with authorities, ensuring a smooth registration process.

4. Assistance with 12A, 80G, and FCRA

We also help your society obtain tax exemptions and permission to receive foreign donations.

5. Affordable & Transparent Fees

Meerad offers high-quality services at reasonable and transparent prices — no hidden charges.

6. Local Expertise

With our deep understanding of Bihar’s regulatory environment, we ensure compliance with all state-specific requirements.

FAQs on Society Registration

Q1. How many members are required to start a society?
A minimum of 7 members are required, and there is no upper limit.

Q2. How long does the registration process take?
Usually 20 to 30 working days, depending on document verification and local authorities.

Q3. Can foreigners be members of a society?
Yes, but they must have a valid visa and address proof in India.

Q4. What is the validity of a society registration certificate?
It remains valid unless cancelled, but some states may require periodic renewal.

Q5. Can a registered society receive donations?
Yes. After obtaining 12A and 80G certificates, donations become tax-exempt.

Q6. What are the penalties for non-compliance?
Failure to file annual returns or maintain records can lead to fines or cancellation of registration.

Conclusion

A registered society enjoys legal recognition, credibility, and access to funding — all essential for making a long-lasting impact. Whether you want to start a school, promote art and culture, or serve society in any way, formal registration is the first step.

If you’re looking to register your society in Patna, Bihar, or anywhere in India, Meerad can handle it all — from drafting documents to obtaining registration and managing post-registration compliance.

Let our team of expert Chartered Accountants and legal advisors help you turn your dream into a registered reality.

📞 Contact Meerad Today!
Phone: +91-85400-99000
Email: info@meerad.in