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12A Registration in India
Starting From ₹ 7499 + GST
Planning to get an income tax exemption for your NGO? Get your 12A registration done right with Registration Park. We handle the paperwork, the process, and every compliance step quickly, affordably, and stress-free.
Inside 12A Registration
- Compliant & Streamlined 12A Application Process
- Assistance with Documentation & Eligibility Verification
- Complete Income Tax Department Compliance Support
- Legally Avail Income Tax Exemption for Your NGO
- Transparent Pricing – No Hidden Charges
Free Consultation by Expert
Overview
Want to secure an income tax exemption for your NGO and maximize the funds for your mission? 12A registration is your first step toward long-term compliance and financial sustainability for your non‑profit organization.
Section 12A of the Income Tax Act allows eligible trusts, societies, and Section 8 companies to enjoy complete exemption from income tax on surplus income, provided it’s used exclusively for charitable purposes. Obtaining 12A registration isn’t just a legal benefit; it’s essential for credibility, smooth operations, and unlocking further tax advantages such as 80G registration.
With 12A registration, your organization can utilize 100% of its income for social impact without the burden of tax liabilities. It ensures seamless compliance with Income Tax Department rules, enhances trust with donors, and increases your eligibility for government grants, CSR funding, and institutional support. Staying compliant also protects you from penalties, rejections, and unnecessary legal hurdles as your NGO grows. Most importantly, it lays the foundation for sustainable success and greater impact in your chosen cause.
Don’t let the application process become a roadblock. Let the experts at Registration Park handle your 12A application online quickly, accurately, and fully compliant.
Talk to our Experts We’re Here To Help You
Why is 12A Registration Essential?
12A registration is the official process that allows a non-profit organization in India to secure exemption from paying income tax on its surplus income. It applies to registered trusts, societies, and Section 8 companies engaged in charitable, social, educational, religious, or welfare activities. Once granted, the organization receives a 12A certificate and unique registration number from the Income Tax Department, enabling it to operate with full tax benefits in a lawful manner.
The 12A certificate acts as proof of compliance with Indian tax laws and contains key details such as the organization’s name, registration number, address, and approval status. For NGOs and similar entities, obtaining 12A registration is crucial to establish financial legitimacy, maintain transparency, and build trust with donors, corporates, and funding agencies.
It also serves as a requirement for applying for 80G registration, which allows donors to claim tax deductions on their contributions. Without 12A registration, an NGO’s income is subject to tax, reducing funds available for charitable work and potentially impacting credibility.
How Can 12A Registration Help Your Organization?
Legal Exemption from Income Tax
12A registration gives your organization the legal right to claim 100% exemption from paying income tax on its surplus income, provided it is used for charitable purposes. This maximizes funds available for projects, long‑term initiatives, and expansion, while ensuring compliance with the Income Tax Act.
Trust and Credibility with Donors
Organizations with valid 12A registration are seen as compliant, credible, and transparent. The 12A certificate demonstrates your NGO’s legitimacy, helping you inspire donor confidence and attract more consistent funding from individuals, corporates, and institutions.
Compliance with Income Tax Department Guidelines
Following 12A rules helps your organization avoid unnecessary taxation, penalties, or compliance‑related issues. Proper registration and adherence to reporting requirements keep you in good standing with tax authorities, ensuring smooth operations.
Eligibility for 80G and Other Funding Opportunities
Holding a valid 12A certificate is a prerequisite for obtaining 80G registration, which enables your donors to claim tax deductions. It also increases your eligibility for CSR funds, institutional grants, and government schemes that require tax‑exempt status.
Transparent Financial Management
12A registration encourages accountability through proper bookkeeping, audited financials, and compliant fund utilization. This not only supports internal governance but also strengthens your NGO’s reputation during audits and donor evaluations.
Official Recognition as a Tax‑Exempt NGO
12A registration officially recognizes your organization as a law‑abiding, tax‑exempt charitable entity in India. This status boosts your credibility with stakeholders, expands collaboration opportunities, and strengthens your NGO’s overall profile.
Who Must Register for 12A in India?
12A registration is mandatory for charitable and religious organizations in India that wish to claim exemption from income tax on their surplus funds. This registration is governed by the Income Tax Act, 1961, and applies to a wide range of entities including trusts, societies, and not-for-profit institutions engaged in educational, medical, social, or religious activities.
If your organization operates for charitable purposes, obtaining 12A registration is crucial for availing tax benefits, enhancing credibility, and ensuring compliance with statutory requirements.
Eligibility Criteria for 12A Registration
Type of Organization Eligible for 12A Registration
To apply for 12A registration, the applicant must be a registered charitable entity such as a trust, society, or Section 8 company engaged in charitable, social welfare, educational, religious, or philanthropic activities.
Permanent Account Number (PAN) Requirement
A valid PAN card in the name of the organization is mandatory. The PAN details of trustees, directors, or key office bearers may also be requested during the verification process.
Operational Track Record
While newly formed organizations can also apply, having a consistent record of genuine charitable activities strengthens the application. Submitting documented reports and proper financial statements helps in demonstrating credibility.
Compliance and Legal History
The applicant must have a clean compliance history with no involvement in misuse of funds, tax violations, or activities contrary to charitable objectives.
Operational Bank Account
The organization must maintain an active bank account in its name, used for receiving and utilizing funds solely for charitable purposes in line with the objectives mentioned in its registration documents.
Purpose of Income Utilization
All income donations, grants, or program revenue must be directed toward lawful and approved charitable purposes such as education, healthcare, environmental protection, poverty alleviation, or other recognized social causes. Use of funds for personal benefit or political purposes is strictly prohibited.
Documents Checklist for 12A Registration
To apply for 12A Registration, you will need the following documents:
- Registration certificate of the organization (Trust Deed, Society Registration Certificate, or Section 8 Company Incorporation Certificate)
- PAN of the organization
- Trust Deed / Memorandum of Association (MoA) / Rules & By laws as applicable
- Audited financial statements for the last 3 years (Income & Expenditure Account, Balance Sheet, and Receipts & Payments) – for new organizations, prepare provisional financial statements if available
- Activity report detailing past charitable projects and fund utilization
- PAN and Aadhaar of key functionaries (Trustees, Directors, or Members of the Governing Body)
- Resolution passed by the governing body authorizing the application for 12A registration
- Affidavit or self-declaration confirming that income and assets will be applied solely for charitable purposes
- Details of the operational bank account in the name of the organization, used for receiving donations or grants
- Proof of registered office address (electricity bill, property tax receipt, rent agreement, or similar valid document)
12A Registration: A Guide by Registration Park
Free Consultation & Eligibility Check
We start by understanding your organization’s legal structure, objectives, and current compliance status. Based on Income Tax Department guidelines, we assess whether you qualify for permanent or provisional 12A registration.
Document Collection & Review
Our team helps you compile all required documents registration certificate, PAN, trust deed or memorandum, audited financials, activity reports, and governing body resolutions and carefully reviews them to ensure accuracy and completeness.
12A‑Specific Documentation Preparation
We assist in drafting required declarations, undertakings, and supporting statements, ensuring they align with your organization’s charitable purpose and financial policies.
Filing the 12A Application
We submit your application online through the Income Tax Department’s portal in the prescribed format, ensuring precise data entry and strict adherence to legal requirements.
Compliance Support During Assessment
If the assessing officer requests clarifications or additional documents, we handle all follow‑ups and submissions to keep your application moving forward.
Certificate Issuance & Post‑Approval Guidance
income. We also guide you on compliance practices to maintain your exemption and assist with renewals or amendments as necessary.
Why Choose Registration Park for 12A Registration?
Expert Guidance
Expert Guidance
End-to-End Assistance
End-to-End Assistance
Fast Turnaround Time
Fast Turnaround Time
Error-Free Filing
Error-Free Filing
Affordable Pricing
Affordable Pricing
Dedicated Support Team
Dedicated Support Team
Compliance-Focused Approach
Compliance-Focused Approach
Tailored Solutions
Tailored Solutions
Post-Registration Assistance
Post-Registration Assistance
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is 12A registration?
12A registration is a certification granted by the Income Tax Department that exempts charitable organizations from paying income tax on their surplus income under Section 12A of the Income Tax Act.
Who needs to apply for 12A registration?
All non-profit organizations like trusts, societies, Section 8 companies, and NGOs engaged in charitable, social, educational, or religious activities seeking income tax exemption must apply for 12A registration.
Is 12A registration mandatory for operating as a charitable NGO?
While not legally mandatory to function as an NGO, 12A registration is essential for securing tax exemption on income, enhancing credibility, and qualifying for other benefits like 80G registration.
Can new NGOs apply for 12A registration?
Yes, newly formed NGOs can apply for 12A registration immediately after incorporation to start enjoying income tax exemption benefits.
What documents are required for 12A registration?
Key documents include the organization’s registration certificate, PAN card, trust deed or memorandum, audited financial statements, activity reports, and resolutions passed by the governing body.
How long does it take to get 12A registration?
12A registration usually takes between 1 to 3 months, depending on the completeness of documents and the Income Tax Department’s verification process.
Is 12A registration permanent?
Generally, 12A registration remains valid permanently as long as the organization maintains compliance with the Income Tax Act and files required returns.
Can 12A registration details be updated later?
Yes, changes such as trustee details, address change, or other relevant updates can be reported to the Income Tax Department and reflected in the 12A registration records.
What are the benefits of 12A registration?
12A registration exempts the organization from income tax on surplus funds, builds donor and institutional trust, facilitates eligibility for government grants and CSR funding, and is a prerequisite for applying for 80G registration to provide tax benefits to donors.
12A Registration Customised by States and Cities
- 12A Registration in Pune
- 12A Registration in Mumbai
- 12A Registration in Delhi
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