Starting a non-profit group? Want to run an NGO? You need legal proof to operate in India. That’s where the society registration certificate comes in.
This certificate gives your group legal status. It helps you raise funds, open a bank account, and apply for tax benefits like 12A registration. You also need it before applying for NGO Darpan registration.
Let’s make it simple. Here's how to get a society registered in India.
What Is a Society?
A society is a group of people working for a common charitable cause. It can be for education, health, culture, or social welfare.
You need at least seven members to form a society. Anyone can be a member—Indian or foreigner.
The purpose must not be profit. It should serve the public good.
Why You Need a Society Registration Certificate
You can’t run a society legally without registration. This certificate proves your society exists.
It helps with:
Legal identity
Tax exemption through 12A registration
Applying for ngo darpan registration
Foreign and domestic funding
Trust and credibility with donors
A registered society is stronger than an unregistered group. People take you seriously.
Step 1: Choose a Name
Pick a unique name. Make sure it’s not too similar to an existing society or government body.
Avoid names that hurt religious or national sentiments.
Check availability with the Registrar of Societies.
Step 2: Draft the Memorandum and Rules
You need two main documents:
Memorandum of Association (MOA)
Name and address of society
Objectives
Details of governing body
Rules and Regulations
Membership rules
Meeting process
Powers of the managing committee
These documents are the foundation of your society. Write clearly. Be transparent.
Step 3: Collect Required Documents
Here’s what you’ll need:
PAN cards of all members
ID and address proofs
Passport-size photos
Society office address proof
No objection certificate (NOC) from property owner
MOA and rules signed by all founding members
Scan and save all documents. Keep hard copies too.
Step 4: File for Registration
Go to the Registrar of Societies in your state. Submit your application with all documents.
Some states allow online registration. Others need physical submission.
Pay the registration fee. It’s usually low.
Once submitted, the Registrar checks your documents.
Step 5: Get the Certificate
If all documents are correct, you get the society registration certificate.
It usually takes 1–2 months. Time may vary by state.
Once you have the certificate, your society becomes a legal entity.
What to Do After Registration
Now that your society is registered, take the next steps:
1. Apply for PAN
Your society needs a PAN card. It’s required for bank accounts and tax filing.
2. Open a Bank Account
Open a bank account in your society’s name. Use your PAN and registration certificate.
3. Apply for 12A Registration
With 12A, your income becomes tax-free. Apply on the Income Tax portal.
It helps you save money for your cause.
4. Register on NGO Darpan
NGO Darpan is a government portal. It links your society with ministries and departments.
NGO darpan registration is needed to apply for government grants.
You’ll need your PAN, society certificate, and details of activities.
Benefits of Registering with NGO Experts
Getting your certificate can be tricky. Rules change. Paperwork is confusing.
That’s why NGO Experts is here.
They help with:
Drafting documents
Filing applications
Society registration certificate
NGO darpan registration
Annual compliance
FCRA support
Their team is fast, honest, and expert. You focus on your work. They handle the legal side.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Wrong or duplicate name
Missing NOC from landlord
Incorrect documents
Not following state-specific rules
Fixing mistakes takes time. Do it right the first time.
Final Words
Getting a society registration certificate is the first step toward creating real change.
It gives your work a legal base. It opens doors to funding and growth.
Don’t let paperwork stop your mission. Let NGO Experts make it smooth.
