12A & 80G Registration for NGOs: Process, Fees & Documents

Updated on June 19, 2025 02:53:19 PM

Non-profit organizations in India, including Societies, Trusts, NGOs, and Section 8 Companies, play a critical role in solving social, educational, and environmental issues. In order to sustain their operations and attract more donors, these organizations often look for 12A and 80G registration under the Income Tax Act, of 1961. 12A and 80G registrations are a must for Societies, Trusts, NGOs, and Section 8 Companies to avail tax exemption and attract donations.

12A Registration: This allows the organization to be exempted from paying income tax on surplus income used for charitable or religious purposes. It is critical for entities aiming to retain more funds for their activities rather than tax liabilities.

80G Registration: This facilitates tax exemption on donations. More and more people are inspired to contribute to the organization because it has credibility.

Section 8 Companies: It is a type of company, under the Companies Act, 2013, registered with the purpose of promoting arts, education, charity, environment, sports, or social welfare. The advantages of these entities are the same as those of trust or society, but these are structured and regulated more than others. Together, these registrations boost the financial sustainability and compliance of non-profits, thus making them effective in achieving their missions.

12A & 80G Sample Documents

  • 12A Registration Certificate
  • 80G Certificate
12AA-Sample
80G-Sample

What is 12A and 80G Registration for Societies and Trusts?

12A and 80G registrations are important for Societies, Trusts, and other NGOs in India for tax benefits and for soliciting donations.

12A Registration It is given under the Income Tax Act, of 1961, and exempts the income of the organization from tax if it is used for charitable or religious purposes. This registration is a must for organizations to seek long-term sustainability and reduced tax burdens.

80G Registration This is a registration that allows donors to get tax deductions for their contributions, thus encouraging more donations. It makes the organization more attractive to potential donors since they can claim 50% of the donation amount deducted from their taxable income.

Both registrations enhance credibility. Thus, it is easy for organizations to raise funds and channel resources toward objectives. These provisions are significant for ensuring financial efficiency and compliance, which enables non-profits to focus on the mission of creating social impact.

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Benefits of 12A and 80G Registration for Societies and Trusts

In India, registration under the provisions of 12A and 80G is an important certification for non-profit organizations like societies and trusts that allow such organizations to work much more efficiently in fulfilling their objectives. Here are ways in which these registrations aid such organizations:

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Documents Required for 12A and 80G Registration for Societies and Trusts

To apply for 12A and 80G registration in NGOs, Trusts, Societies, and Section 8 Companies must provide specific documents to establish their eligibility and compliance. Below is a comprehensive list:

  • Common Documents for 12A and 80G Registration
  • Specific Documents of 12A Registration
  • Specific Documents of 80G Registration
  • Memorandum of Association (MOA)
  • Pan Card
  • Registration Certificate
  • Address Proof
  • Financial Statement
  • Details of Activities
  • Bank Account Details
  • Form 10A
  • Donor Details
  • Activity Report
  • Financial Records
  • Form 10G
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Procedure for 12A and 80G Registration for Societies and Trusts

Applying for 12A and 80G registration for Societies, and Trusts involves a streamlined online process through the Income Tax Department’s e-filing portal. Here is a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Eligibility Check

  • Your organization must be a Trust, Society, or Section 8 Company that is undertaking charitable, religious, or educational activities.

Step 2: Preparation of Documents

  • Gather the necessary documents, such as registration certificates, trust deeds or MOA/AOA, PAN cards, financial statements, activity reports, and details of governing members.

Step 3: Online Application

  • Login to the Income Tax Department's e-filing portal.
  • Form 10A is for registration under 12A, and Form 10G is for registration under 80G.

Step 4: Upload Documents

  • The applicant needs to upload all supporting documents along with the forms.

Step 5: Authority Review

  • The Income Tax Department will scrutinize the application form and may ask the applicant for additional information or documents.

Step 6: Approval

  • The department issues 12A and/or 80G certifications after successful verification.
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Fees for 12A and 80G Registration for Societies and Trusts

There are no fees levied by the Income Tax Department for the 12A and 80G registration process for Societies, trusts, and NGOs.

Minor expenses may be incurred, though, in the course of doing so, including:

Note: Although the fee is variable, the entire cost will depend upon the level of applicability and the requirement for professional aid.

  • Professional fee for 12A and 80G Registration in Delhi starts from Each.
  • Note: The aforementioned fees are exclusive of GST
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Validity of 12A and 80G Registration for Societies and Trusts

State of 12A and 80G Registration for Societies and Trusts Have Disqualified in Several Changes in the Finance Act 2020.

The validity enjoyed by 12A and 80G registration for societies and trusts underwent colossal changes following amendments brought by the Finance Act of 2020. Following is the overview of these ever-dwindling periods of validity:

  • 12A Registration
    Permanent Registration (Before 2020 Amendment): 12A registration existing before the amendment made by 2020 was granted permanent registration without the condition of renewal.
  • Validity Post-2020 Amendment:
    The organizations will have to now apply for revalidation of their existing 12A registration.
    The revalidated registration remains valid for 5 years and needs to be renewed every five years thereafter.
  • 80G RegistrationPermanent Registration (Before 2020 Amendment): Similarly to 12A, registrations attained before amendment 80G were consigned permanently and did not need renewal.
  • Validity Post-2020 Amendment: Validity Post-2020 Amendment: According to the new norms, existing 80G registration shall now be valid either by revalidation of the same or otherwise. The revalidation remains valid for five years and requires renewal after five years.

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Conclusion

12A and 80G registrations are a must for non-profit organizations in India to maximize their impact and financial sustainability. These certifications benefit not only the organization and its donors but also give credibility to the organization. In understanding the procedure, fees, and documentation requirements, one can navigate the registration process better.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the purpose of 12A registration?

12A registration allows charitable organizations to be exempt from paying income tax on funds used for charitable purposes. It establishes the organization's 2019s eligibility to receive tax-exempt donations and apply for government grants.

What is the benefit of 80G registration?

With 80G registration, donors can avail of a tax deduction of their contribution made to the entity which makes it an attractive proposition for donors to support the entity.

Can newly formed organisations apply for 12A and 80G registration?

Yes, newly formed organizations can apply for both registrations as long as they meet the eligibility criteria and provide the required documentation.

How long is the validity period of 12A and 80G certificates?

12A Registration: Valid indefinitely unless revoked on grounds of non-compliance.

80G Registration: Initially valid for 5 years and requires renewal thereafter.

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