Online NGO Registration in India: Legal Process & Funding

Online NGO Registration in India: Legal Process & Funding Eligibility Guide

To register an NGO as a legal entity and become eligible for funding from the government and private sector, follow these steps:

Step 1: Choose the Right Legal Structure for Your NGO

In India, NGOs can be registered under three legal structures:

  1. Trust (Under Indian Trusts Act, 1882)
  2. Society (Under Societies Registration Act, 1860)
  3. Section 8 Company (Under Companies Act, 2013)

For fundraising and legal compliance purposes, a Section 8 Company is the best option due to its credibility and structured governance.

Step 2: Online Registration Process

For Section 8 Company (Recommended)

  1. Apply for Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)
    • Obtain DSC for the directors from certifying authorities like eMudhra or Sify.
  2. Apply for Director Identification Number (DIN)
  3. Name Approval (RUN Form)
    • Submit Reserve Unique Name (RUN) Form to MCA with โ€œFoundation,โ€ โ€œAssociation,โ€ or โ€œSocietyโ€ in the name.
  4. File INC-12 for License
    • Submit INC-12 with Memorandum of Association (MOA) and Articles of Association (AOA).
  5. Incorporation Filing (SPICe+ Form INC-32, INC-33 & INC-34)
    • File the incorporation forms with MCA, including details of directors, registered office, and object clauses.
  6. Obtain Certificate of Incorporation & PAN/TAN
    • After approval, you will receive a Certificate of Incorporation, PAN, and TAN.

Step 3: Apply for Registrations to Receive Funds

  1. Get 12A Registration (Tax Exemption for NGO)
    • File an application with the Income Tax Department for tax exemption.
  2. Get 80G Registration (Tax Benefits for Donors)
    • Register under 80G to allow donors to claim tax deductions.
  3. Register for CSR Funding (Corporate Donations)
    • List your NGO on NGO Darpan (NITI Aayog) to get CSR funds from private companies.
  4. FCRA Registration (For Foreign Donations)
  5. Register for Government Grants & Tenders
    • Enroll with government portals like NGO Darpan, MSME, and GeM for grant eligibility.

Step 4: Open a Bank Account

  • Open a dedicated bank account in the name of the NGO to receive funds transparently.

Step 5: Compliance & Reporting

  • File annual returns and financial statements with MCA and IT Department.
  • Submit utilization reports for received grants and donations.

Conclusion

For government and private funding, ensure compliance with 12A, 80G, CSR, and FCRA registrations. If you need professional assistance in registration, legal documentation, or compliance, I can help with the process. Let us know how youโ€™d like to proceed! Advocate B Pramanik & Associates can help you to register your NGO Online in India.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *