Society Registration

Society registration is the process of legally establishing an organization to promote charitable, literary, scientific, or cultural objectives. Under the Societies Registration Act, 1860, societies can be formed to operate as a non-profit entity. At Apnaa Filing, we provide end-to-end assistance for society registration, ensuring compliance with all legal requirements and a smooth registration process.

1. What is a Society?

Definition: A society is a group of individuals who come together voluntarily to promote common objectives such as education, art, culture, or public welfare.
Legal Framework: Societies in India are governed under the Societies Registration Act, 1860, or respective state legislation.
Non-Profit Objective: The primary aim is to operate without profit motives, channeling resources toward the intended goals.

2. Advantages of Registering a Society

Legal Entity: A registered society attains legal recognition and can enter contracts, own property, and sue or be sued.
Tax Benefits: Registered societies are eligible for tax exemptions under the Income Tax Act.
Credibility: Registration adds credibility, helping in fundraising and gaining public trust.

3. Documents Required for Society Registration

Founding Members:
- Minimum of seven members, including at least one from a different state (for national-level societies).
- Identity proof (PAN Card, Aadhaar, Passport).
- Address proof (utility bills, voter ID, etc.).
Proposed Society Name:
- The name should be unique and not resemble any existing registered society or trademark.
- Avoid prohibited words as per government guidelines.
Address Proof of Registered Office:
- Utility bill or rent agreement (if applicable).
- No-Objection Certificate (NOC) from the property owner.
Key Documents:
- Memorandum of Association (MOA): Defines the objectives and working scope of the society.
- Rules and Regulations: Governing rules for day-to-day operations, membership criteria, and meeting protocols.

4. Step-by-Step Society Registration Process

Selection of Members:
- Identify at least seven members willing to be part of the society.
- Choose members from diverse locations for a national-level society.
Drafting Key Documents:
- Prepare the Memorandum of Association (MOA) outlining the purpose, aims, and address of the society.
- Frame the Rules and Regulations that will govern the society’s operations.
Name Reservation: Ensure the proposed name is unique and complies with the Registrar of Societies’ guidelines.
Submission of Application: Submit Form A, MOA, Rules & Regulations, and member details to the Registrar of Societies.
Verification and Approval: The Registrar reviews the submitted documents and verifies the objectives and authenticity of the application.
Issuance of Registration Certificate: Upon approval, the Registrar issues a Certificate of Registration, granting legal recognition to the society.

Key Points to Remember

Minimum Members: At least seven members are required for registration, with one member from a different state for national-level societies.
Non-Profit Nature: The society must operate on a non-profit basis, with all income used for achieving its objectives.
Post-Registration Compliance: Societies must maintain annual reports, conduct regular meetings, and file periodic returns.
Timeframe: The registration process typically takes 30-45 days, subject to document verification and approval.