Starting an NGO is one of the most fulfilling ways to serve society. But before beginning your social journey, it’s important to understand the process to register NGO legally. As a legal expert associated with NGO Experts, I help individuals and groups register their NGOs smoothly and correctly. Let’s go step by step so you can understand how it works.
Understanding the Purpose of NGO Registration
Before you start the process to register NGO, it’s important to decide the purpose and structure of your organization. You must be clear about your mission—whether you want to focus on education, healthcare, women empowerment, or environmental causes.
Next, decide how your NGO will operate. In India, NGOs can be registered in three main ways:
- Trust under the Indian Trusts Act, 1882
- Society under the Societies Registration Act, 1860
- Section 8 Company under the Companies Act, 2013
Each type has different legal requirements and benefits. If you want a more professional setup with better credibility, Section 8 Company Registration is a great choice.
Step 1: Choose a Name for Your NGO
Your NGO name should reflect your cause and be unique. It should not match any existing registered organization or company. I always suggest checking the availability of your name on the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) website before applying. A meaningful and clear name builds trust with the public and donors.
Step 2: Prepare the Required Documents
The next step in the process to register NGO is gathering all the necessary documents. You will need:
- ID and address proof of all members
- Passport-size photos
- Office address proof (rental agreement or ownership document)
- Memorandum of Association (MOA) and Articles of Association (AOA) for Section 8 companies
- Trust deed or Society bylaws, depending on your registration type
Having all these documents ready makes your application process faster and smoother.
Step 3: Draft the Legal Documents
For Section 8 Company Registration, you must prepare your MOA and AOA carefully. These documents describe your NGO’s objectives, work area, and management structure. As a legal consultant, I ensure these are drafted in compliance with government norms.
If you are registering as a Trust or Society, you’ll need a Trust Deed or Rules and Regulations document, signed by the founding members.
Step 4: Apply for Registration
Once your documents are ready, it’s time to submit your application.
- For Trusts, you apply through the local Sub-Registrar Office.
- For Societies, registration is done at the Registrar of Societies.
- For Section 8 Companies, you apply online via the MCA portal.
During the online Section 8 Company Registration, you must also get a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) and Director Identification Number (DIN) for all directors.
Step 5: Get Your Darpan Registration Certificate
After your NGO is officially registered, apply for a Darpan Registration Certificate on the NITI Aayog Darpan Portal. This certificate is mandatory if your NGO wants to receive government funding or participate in government projects. It also adds credibility and transparency to your organization.
The Darpan registration process is simple and online. You just need your NGO registration details, PAN number, and contact information. Once verified, you’ll receive a unique Darpan ID.
Step 6: Open a Bank Account and Apply for 12A & 80G
After receiving your Darpan Registration Certificate, open a current bank account in your NGO’s name. This is required for all financial transactions.
You should also apply for 12A and 80G registration to get tax exemptions for your NGO and its donors. At NGO Experts, we guide clients through this process to ensure full compliance with Income Tax laws.
Conclusion
Registering an NGO may seem challenging, but with the right guidance, it’s a smooth process. The process to register NGO involves careful planning, document preparation, and following legal steps. By completing your Section 8 Company Registration and obtaining your Darpan Registration Certificate, you’ll set a strong foundation for your NGO’s success.
At NGO Experts, I help clients handle every stage of NGO registration—from choosing the right structure to final approval. With the correct legal support, your vision to create positive social change can quickly become a reality.
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