Expert guidance for Section 8 Company, Trust, and Society registration – legally compliant, fast, and affordable.
NGO Registration in India – Start Your Trust, Society or Section 8 Company
Thinking of starting a non-profit? Musecorp offers expert-led NGO registration in India for all three legal structures — Section 8 Company, Trust, and Society. We handle the entire process, so you can focus on creating impact.
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Pan-India Service
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Quick Government Approvals
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Registered with MCA
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CA & CS-Led Expert Assistance
Not-for-profit. All for purpose.
What is NGO Registration and Why Does It Matter?
Section 8 Company
Best for organizations seeking high credibility, tax exemptions, and foreign funding eligibility.
Registered under the Companies Act, 2013 with the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA).
Trust
Best suited for family-run or community-based charitable entities requiring flexible governance.
Formed under the Indian Trusts Act, 1882 (or relevant state trust laws).
Society
Ideal for cultural, educational, and social welfare groups that want simpler compliance.
Registered under the Societies Registration Act, 1860 at the state level.
Not sure if it’s right for you? [Talk to a Musecorp expert →]
Benefits of NGO Registration in India
Why NGO Registration is Beneficial for Your Mission
Registering your NGO under a recognized legal structure like a Section 8 Company, Trust, or Society offers more than just compliance — it unlocks credibility, sustainability, and funding opportunities. Here’s why it’s a smart and necessary move for anyone committed to social impact.
Legal Identity & Recognition
A registered NGO becomes a separate legal entity, allowing it to enter contracts, own property, and operate in its name. This provides structure, professionalism, and the foundation for long-term impact.
Eligibility for Tax Exemptions (12A & 80G)
Registered NGOs can apply for 12A and 80G certificates under the Income Tax Act, making donations to your organization tax-deductible for donors — a huge incentive to support your cause.
Access to Government & CSR Funding
Most government grants, corporate CSR programs, and institutional donors require legal registration before offering funds or collaboration. NGO registration helps you qualify.
Foreign Donations via FCRA
Section 8 Companies and Societies (once registered under FCRA) can legally receive foreign contributions to support their programs. This opens doors to global funding sources.
Trust & Transparency for Donors
Registration boosts credibility with individual donors, banks, partners, and communities. It shows that your NGO follows governance standards and financial reporting practices.
Bank Account & Financial Operations
You can open a current account in the NGO’s name and manage finances professionally. This is essential for receiving grants, issuing receipts, and managing budgets.
Continuity and Governance
Unlike informal groups, registered NGOs have documented rules (MoA, Trust Deed, etc.) and a governing board or council, ensuring long-term stability even with leadership changes.
📌 Note: Without proper registration, your organization may not be able to open a bank account in its name or apply for grants and tax exemptions.
One mission. Three legal structures.
Types of NGO Registration in India: Trust, Society & Section 8 Company
In India, NGO registration can be done under one of three legal structures — each governed by a different Act and suited to specific goals, operational styles, and levels of compliance. Choosing the right one is critical to ensuring smooth governance, funding access, and long-term sustainability.
⚖️ Overview of Legal Structures:
🟩 1. Trust
Registered under the Indian Trusts Act, 1882 or relevant state laws. Commonly used for family-run or religious charities.
- Simple structure and registration
- Ideal for property-based or legacy institutions
- Flexible internal governance
🟦 2. Society
Registered under the Societies Registration Act, 1860, typically at the state level.
- Suited for community-based or cultural groups
- Requires a minimum of 7 members
- Easier day-to-day compliance
🟨 3. Section 8 Company
Registered under the Companies Act, 2013, regulated by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs.
- Best for formal NGOs seeking funding & recognition
- Offers highest legal credibility
- Eligible for FCRA and tax exemptions (12A/80G)
💡 Tip:
Not sure which structure suits your NGO?
We’ll help you choose during your free consultation.
✅ Compare All Types
✅ [Get a Recommendation]
India’s most preferred structure for high-impact NGOs.
Section 8 Company NGO Registration in India
Unlike a Trust or Society, this structure offers a separate legal identity, limited liability for members, and a professional governance model — making it the most recognized NGO format in India.
🔍 Key Highlights:
Registered with the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA)
Minimum 2 directors required (no minimum capital)
Eligible for 12A & 80G tax exemptions
FCRA compliant for foreign donations (with approval)
Legal identity helps build trust with donors and corporates
Strong internal governance via MoA, AoA, and Board Resolutions
✅ Best Suited For:
Education, healthcare, or environmental NGOs
Social enterprises with a national or global vision
Organizations seeking CSR partnerships and funding
NGOs looking to apply for government grants or FCRA
📞 Thinking of starting a Section 8 Company?
Let our experts help you with end-to-end NGO registration.
👉 [Start Your Registration] | [Talk to an Expert]
Simplicity meets tradition in charitable registration.
Trust-Based NGO Registration in India
🔍 Key Highlights:
Governed by the Indian Trusts Act, 1882 (or respective state acts)
Requires at least 2 trustees
Trust deed is the founding document
Simple setup and low compliance burden
Eligible for 12A and 80G registration for tax exemptions
Not subject to ROC/MCA filings
Not FCRA eligible by default (requires additional steps)
✅ Best Suited For:
Religious or spiritual charities
Small community-focused initiatives
Family-run philanthropic activities
Organizations managing property or legacy donations
📞 Want to register a Trust for your cause?
Musecorp simplifies the entire NGO registration process — from drafting your trust deed to completing formalities.
👉 [Start Trust Registration] | [Book a Free Call]
Where collaboration meets compliance.
Society-Based NGO Registration in India
A Society is a group of individuals united for a common cause — such as art, education, science, social welfare, or cultural development. Societies are registered under the Societies Registration Act, 1860 at the state level, making them ideal for NGOs operating within a specific state or region.
🔍 Key Highlights:
Governed by the Societies Registration Act, 1860
Requires a minimum of 7 members from different states (for national-level)
Managed by a Governing Body or Executive Committee
Less compliance-heavy than a Section 8 Company
Eligible for 12A & 80G for tax exemptions
Can apply for FCRA (with approval) for foreign contributions
Requires bylaws and regular AGM minutes to remain compliant
✅ Best Suited For:
Educational and cultural organizations
NGOs working in health, art, or science
Grassroots movements with regional operations
Clubs, associations, or social welfare societies
📞 Want to register a Society for your NGO?
We help you navigate state-level registrations and compliance from start to finish.
👉 [Start Society Registration] | [Speak to an Advisor]
Still unsure? Here's a side-by-side comparison.
Trust vs Society vs Section 8 Company – Which NGO Registration is Right for You?
Comparison: Trust vs Society vs Section 8 Company
| Feature | Trust | Society | Section 8 Company |
|---|---|---|---|
| Governing Act | Indian Trusts Act, 1882 | Societies Registration Act, 1860 | Companies Act, 2013 |
| Registration Authority | Sub-Registrar (State) | Registrar of Societies (State) | Ministry of Corporate Affairs (Central) |
| Legal Status | Not a separate legal entity | Separate legal entity | Separate legal entity |
| Minimum Members | 2 Trustees | 7 Members | 2 Directors |
| Compliance Level | Low | Moderate | High |
| 12A/80G Eligibility | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| FCRA Eligibility | Yes (after registration) | Yes (after registration) | Yes (after registration) |
| Credibility Level | Low to Medium | Medium | High |
| Suitable For | Family-run or property-based NGOs | Community groups & cultural orgs | Scalable, professional NGOs |
Need help preparing your documents? [Talk to Our Compliance Expert →]
Your cause is unique — your structure should be too.
How to Choose the Right NGO Registration Format
Not sure whether to register as a Trust, Society, or Section 8 Company? Choosing the right NGO registration format depends on your goals, funding plans, team size, and long-term vision.
Here are a few key factors to consider:
✅ Things to Consider Before Choosing:
Purpose of Your NGO
Are you focused on social, cultural, religious, educational, or environmental activities?
Operational Scale
Will you work locally, across multiple states, or at a national/international level?
Donor Type
Are you seeking government grants, CSR funding, or foreign contributions?
Compliance Comfort
Do you want a flexible or structured format with formal governance?
Governance Preference
Are you okay with annual filings and audits? Or do you prefer low compliance?
Tax Benefits & Donor Transparency
Want to offer 12A and 80G tax benefits? Section 8 Companies are often preferred by donors and CSR partners for their credibility and transparency.
💡 Quick Recommendations:
Choose a Trust if you want simplicity and flexibility (often family-run).
Choose a Society if you’re building a community or state-level group with members.
Choose a Section 8 Company if you want formal recognition, credibility, and funding eligibility (CSR/FCRA).
📞 Still unsure which is right for you?
We offer free expert consultations to help you choose the best legal path for your mission.
👉 [Get a Recommendation] | [Speak to an NGO Expert]
Trusted by 500+ NGOs. Built on expertise, not shortcuts.
Why Musecorp is the Right Choice for Your NGO Registration.
Want to talk to a real person before you register? [Book Free Consultation →]
At Musecorp Legal Solutions, we don’t just fill out forms — we build legally strong, fully compliant organizations that are ready to grow and inspire change. Our NGO registration services are delivered by qualified Chartered Accountants (CAs) and Company Secretaries (CSs) who understand every detail of Trust, Society, and Section 8 Company formation.
We go beyond paperwork to ensure your structure aligns with your mission, funding goals, and future compliance needs.
🔐 Here’s Why NGOs Choose Musecorp:
✅ Expert Team of CA/CS Professionals – No bots. No shortcuts.
✅ All 3 NGO Types Covered – Trust, Society & Section 8 Company
✅ Transparent Pricing – No hidden fees, full cost breakdowns
✅ Official Partner of e-Mudhra – Get DSCs issued securely and quickly
✅ Post-Incorporation Support – From 12A/80G to FCRA assistance
✅ Pan-India Service – We serve clients across all Indian states
✅ Rated 4.9★ on Google – 500+ NGOs already registered with us
📞 Need clarity before starting?
Let us walk you through the process and help you choose what’s best.
👉 [Book a Free Consultation] | [View Our Registration Packages]
Hassle-free. Fully guided. Always compliant.
How Musecorp Makes NGO Registration Easy
✅ Our Step-by-Step Process:
✅ Step 1: Free Consultation & Structure Recommendation
We understand your mission and help you choose the best registration format — Section 8 Company, Trust, or Society.
✅ Step 2: Name Approval & Document Collection
We assist with name availability (RUN or state portal) and collect the necessary ID, address proof, and object clauses.
✅ Step 3: Drafting & Digital Signature Issuance
Our experts draft Trust Deed / Society Bylaws / MOA & AOA. We also issue Class 3 DSCs as an official partner of e-Mudhra.
✅ Step 4: Filing with Authorities
We file all forms with the appropriate authority (MCA for Section 8, Registrar/Sub-Registrar for Society/Trust).
✅ Step 5: Certificate of Registration Issued
Once approved, you receive your Certificate of Incorporation or Registration — your NGO is now legally recognized and ready to operate.
🧩 Optional:
We also help with PAN, TAN, 12A/80G, FCRA, and other post-registration services.
👉 [View Required Documents] | [Get Started with Registration]
Clarity before commitment.
Documents Required for NGO Registration in India
To register your NGO in India — whether as a Trust, Society, or Section 8 Company — you’ll need to submit a set of identification, address, and legal documents. Below is a breakdown of the key documents required for each structure.
Documents Required for Trust Registration
| Document | Details |
|---|---|
| Trust Deed | Prepared by Musecorp, signed by the settlor and trustees |
| Photographs of Trustees | Passport-size photos of all trustees |
| ID Proof | PAN card of settlor and all trustees |
| Address Proof | Aadhar card, passport, driver’s license, or utility bill |
| Registered Office Proof | Rent agreement and NOC from the property owner / ownership proof |
Documents Required for Society Registration
| Document | Details |
|---|---|
| Memorandum of Association (MoA) | Outlines the purpose, members, and rules — drafted by Musecorp |
| Rules & Regulations (Bylaws) | Defines how the Society will operate |
| ID Proof of Members | PAN card and Aadhaar card of all founding members (min. 7) |
| Address Proof of Members | Utility bill, passport, or government-issued ID |
| Registered Office Proof | Rent agreement, NOC, or property ownership papers |
Documents Required for Section 8 Company Registration
| Document | Details |
|---|---|
| ID Proof | PAN card of all directors and subscribers |
| Address Proof | Aadhaar, passport, driver’s license, or bank statement (not older than 2 months) |
| Photographs | Recent passport-size photos of all directors |
| Registered Office Proof | Rent agreement + NOC / ownership deed + utility bill |
| Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) | We arrange DSCs for electronic filing (Class 3) |
| Declaration of Objects | Detailed description of the NGO’s charitable purpose |
📌 Need help organizing these documents?
Musecorp handles end-to-end documentation, drafting, and filing for all NGO types.
👉 [Talk to a Consultant] | [Start My Registration]
Transparent. Fair. Tailored to your mission.
NGO Registration Cost in India – Flexible Plans for Every Need
At Musecorp, we believe in transparent pricing — no hidden charges, no misleading “starting from” traps. Your NGO registration cost will depend on your chosen structure, the number of trustees or members, state of registration, and post-registration services like 12A, 80G, or FCRA support.
Most organizations we work with fall between the following ranges:
💸 Typical Pricing Range:
- Trust Registration: ₹6,500 – ₹9,000
- Society Registration: ₹8,000 – ₹12,000
- Section 8 Company: ₹10,000 – ₹18,000
✅ Includes DSC, DIN, documentation, govt fees, and registration.
📋 Final quote may vary slightly based on location & complexity.
🎯 Why We Don’t List One Flat Price
We don’t cut corners to compete with automated platforms. Instead, your registration is personally handled by legal experts, ensuring it’s compliant, complete, and tailored to your needs.
🗨️ “Unlike DIY portals, we don’t just file forms — we build legal foundations.”
📦 Optional Add-ons:
- PAN/TAN
- 12A & 80G Application
- FCRA Advisory
- Current Account Setup
- GST Registration (if applicable)
Get a Custom Quote Based on Your Business Requirements.
Fill out a quick form or talk to an expert to receive a personalized quote — inclusive of govt. fees and only what you actually need.
Don’t just take our word for it.
What NGO Founders Say About Musecorp
We’re more than a registration service — we’re your compliance partner from day one. Here’s why over 10,000 entrepreneurs trust Musecorp for their business needs.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
NGO Registration in India – Frequently Asked Questions
Still have a questions?
Can’t find the answer to your question? Send us an email and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible!
What is the best legal structure for NGO registration in India?
It depends on your mission, team, and funding goals. Section 8 Companies are best for credibility and funding. Societies are ideal for community-based groups. Trusts work well for family-run or asset-based charities.
How long does NGO registration take?
Typically 10–20 working days, depending on the structure and the state of registration. Section 8 Companies may take slightly longer due to MCA approvals.
What documents are required for NGO registration?
You’ll need ID and address proof of members, registered office documents, and object clauses. View detailed document list above.
Can I apply for 12A and 80G tax exemptions after registration?
Yes. Musecorp provides complete post-registration support, including 12A/80G, PAN, TAN, GST, and even FCRA if needed.
Is GST registration mandatory for NGOs?
Not legally for all, but it’s practically required if you want to apply for MSME, Shop & Establishment, or open a current account.
Does Musecorp offer services across India?
Yes! We serve clients in every Indian state and UT through our 100% online, expert-led process.
What modes of payment do you accept?
We accept UPI, net banking, cards, and direct transfers. Invoices are GST-compliant.
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