Society Registration in India
Why Society Registration is Important
Society Registration is essential for any group of individuals or organizations aiming to promote charitable, educational, cultural, scientific, or social welfare activities. It provides your society with a legal identity, enabling it to function as a recognized organization capable of owning property, opening bank accounts, and accepting grants or public donations. Registration also assures donors, beneficiaries, and regulators of transparency and accountability-allowing your social mission to operate within a defined legal framework.
About Society / NGO
A Society is a voluntary association of people who unite to achieve a common non-profit objective such as promoting education, art, science, culture, or social development. Governed by the Societies Registration Act, 1860, societies are commonly used as a legal structure for NGOs operating at both local and national levels. Once registered, a society becomes a distinct legal entity, capable of managing funds, entering contracts, and acquiring or managing property in its name.
Benefits of Society Registration
- Legal recognition and operational independence as a registered entity.
- Eligibility to receive government grants, CSR funds, and foreign contributions (after FCRA approval).
- Freedom to own property, open bank accounts, and enter legal contracts.
- Enhanced credibility and public trust through transparency and accountability.
- Access to tax exemptions under Sections 12A and 80G of the Income Tax Act.
- Structured internal governance through clear rules and regulations.
Procedure for Registration
- Select a Unique Name - Choose a name that is distinct and not similar to any existing registered organization or trademark.
- Prepare MOA and Rules & Regulations - Draft legal documents defining objectives, operations, membership, and governance of the society.
- Collect Supporting Documents - ID proofs of members, registered office address, and property owner’s NOC if applicable.
- Signatures and Attestation - All founding members sign the documents, which are then attested by a notary or oath commissioner.
- Submit Application - File the complete set of documents with the Registrar of Societies, either offline or via your state’s online portal.
- Pay Registration Fees - Pay applicable government and stamp duty charges as per state regulations.
- Approval and Certification - Upon successful verification, the Registrar issues a Certificate of Registration granting the society legal status.
Pricing & Government Charges
Registration fees and government charges vary across states and depend on the nature of the society.
- Government Registration Fees: ₹ 500-₹ 5,000 (approx.)
- Stamp Duty: ₹ 1,000-₹ 10,000 depending on property value and state.
- Professional Fees (Agarwal Avinash & Co): Starting from ₹ 4,999 with drafting, filing, and compliance advisory.
This transparent pricing model ensures that you get a cost-effective yet fully compliant registration experience.
Advantages
- Enables societal groups to function legally and receive grants or donations.
- Allows tax benefits and financial exemptions after registration under 12A and 80G.
- Offers flexibility in internal management and governance.
- Provides access to various government and CSR funding programs.
- Builds long-term credibility and community trust for public welfare activities.
Disadvantages
- Lengthy approval process in some states.
- State-level variations in documentation and procedural requirements.
- Continuous compliance required for renewals, audits, and filings.
- Limited ownership or personal control over assets, as all property belongs to the society.
Mandatory Compliances
Once registered, every society must follow certain legal and annual compliance procedures:
- File audited financial statements and annual returns with the Registrar of Societies.
- Conduct Annual General Meetings (AGMs) as per bylaws.
- File ITR annually under the Income Tax Act.
- Maintain proper records of meetings, resolutions, and membership changes.
- Inform the Registrar of any amendments or changes in governing members.
- Renew registration typically every five years (may vary by state).
Timeline
The Society Registration process usually takes 10 to 20 working days, depending on document readiness and the respective state’s approval procedure. With Agarwal Avinash & Co guidance and follow-up system, your registration is completed accurately and within the earliest possible timeframe.
Deliverables
After registration, you will receive:
- Certificate of Registration from the Registrar of Societies.
- Memorandum of Association (MOA) and Rules & Regulations.
- PAN application support for the society.
- Assistance for 12A/80G and NGO Darpan registration (if applicable).
- Advisory materials for annual compliance and renewal requirements.
Why Choose Agarwal Avinash & Co
Agarwal Avinash & Co simplifies the entire Society Registration process-from documentation to certification-through expert legal handling.
- End-to-end digital filing and complete legal support.
- Accurate MOA and Rules drafting tailored to your mission.
- Experienced compliance experts for state-level and national NGOs.
- Transparent pricing with no hidden charges.
- Guidance on post-registration compliance, renewals, and audits.
With Agarwal Avinash & Co, your society’s registration is handled professionally, helping you focus on the noble cause rather than the paperwork.
FAQs
1. What is Society Registration?
It is the legal process that gives a group of individuals or NGOs an official identity, allowing them to operate for non-profit objectives.
2. How many members are required to form a society?
At least seven members are necessary for registration.
3. What documents are required?
A Memorandum of Association, Rules & Regulations, PAN and ID proof, address proof, NOC, affidavit, and photos of members.
4. What is the cost of registration?
Typically between ₹ 5,000 and ₹ 10,000, depending on state and professional assistance.
5. How long does the process take?
Generally 10-20 working days, based on document verification and state processing time.
6. Can family members form a society?
Yes, though including at least one unrelated member is recommended for better transparency and credibility.
7. Is registration mandatory for a society?
Yes, registration is required to gain legal recognition, own property, and access grants or tax exemptions.
8. Can a registered society receive foreign funding?
Yes, with FCRA approval from the Ministry of Home Affairs, registered societies can legally receive foreign contributions.
Start Your Society Registration with Agarwal Avinash & Co
Build your social impact initiative with full legal strength and compliance.
Agarwal Avinash & Co manages documentation, registration, and post-approval support so your team can focus on making a difference.
Contact Agarwal Avinash & Co today for expert-led Society Registration and a free consultation to get started.