Starting an NGO in India requires proper legal steps. One important step is 12A registration. This registration helps NGOs get income tax exemption. It is issued by the Income Tax Department. With this certificate, the NGO can save funds and use them for social activities.

I work with NGO Experts, a legal company that offers support in this process. Our goal is to simplify the registration for NGOs. We also assist in getting the 80G certificate and NGO Registration.

What is 12A Registration?

12A registration is a process under the Income Tax Act, 1961. This registration allows an NGO to claim exemption from paying income tax. Without this certificate, all donations and income received by the NGO become taxable.

If you want to serve society and receive funds legally, 12A registration is a must. It gives your organization legal strength. It also helps in building trust with donors and government departments.

Benefits of 12A Registration

There are many benefits of 12A registration. Here are the key ones:

• Tax exemption on income received
  
  
• Eligible to apply for government grants
  
  
• Build credibility with donors and institutions
  
  
• Funds can be fully used for social work
  
  

At NGO Experts, we support new and existing organizations to get this certificate quickly and correctly.

Who Can Apply for 12A Registration?

Not all organizations are eligible. Only a few types can apply:

• Trusts
  
  
• Societies
  
  
• Section 8 Companies
  
  

If your organization falls into any of these categories, you can apply. But make sure your documents are in place. Our team at NGO Experts helps in reviewing and preparing all the paperwork.

Documents Needed for 12A Registration

Here are the key documents needed:

• PAN Card of the NGO
  
  
• Registration certificate of the NGO
  
  
• Trust Deed or Memorandum of Association
  
  
• Details of the members or trustees
  
  
• Bank statement of the NGO
  
  
• Utility bill or address proof
  
  

We recommend keeping everything ready to avoid delays. NGO Experts provides complete document support.

Process of 12A Registration

The process starts with filing Form 10A. This form is available on the Income Tax Portal.

Steps include:

1. Login using NGO PAN details
   
   
2. Fill the form online
   
   
3. Upload all required documents
   
   
4. Submit the application
   
   
5. Wait for approval or notice
   
   

After submission, the department may ask for more documents or clarification. NGO Experts handles all communication with the authorities. We make sure the process goes smoothly.

Time Frame and Validity

After submission, it may take 1–2 months to receive the certificate. Earlier, 12A registration was valid for a lifetime. But now, it must be renewed every 5 years. We also help with renewal and follow-up filings.

What is 80G Certificate?

The 80G certificate is another important registration. It allows donors to get tax deductions for donations made to your NGO. When both 12A and 80G are available, your NGO becomes more attractive to donors.

NGO Experts offers both services together. This helps new NGOs save time and cost.

NGO Registration and Compliance

Before applying for 12A, your NGO Registration must be completed. This means your Trust, Society, or Section 8 Company must be legally formed. Without this step, you cannot apply for 12A or 80G.

After registration, there are regular compliances to follow. You must file annual returns and update changes in the organization. NGO Experts provides yearly compliance support.

Why Choose NGO Experts?

I believe in simplifying legal processes. At NGO Experts, we guide NGOs from start to finish. We offer end-to-end services like:

• NGO Registration
  
  
• 12A registration
  
  
• 80G certificate
  
  
• Darpan portal registration
  
  
• Annual filing and compliance
  
  

We keep all records secure and confidential. Our goal is to support NGOs in their legal journey without any stress.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many NGOs face delays due to simple errors. Some common mistakes include:

• Incomplete documents
  
  
• Wrong PAN number
  
  
• Errors in Form 10A
  
  
• Not responding to department notices
  
  

Avoid these by working with professionals. Our team reviews each step in detail.

Conclusion

12A registration is vital for your NGO's legal and financial health. With this certificate, your organization gets income tax relief. You can focus on social development without worrying about taxes.

Start your journey with proper NGO Registration. Get your 12A and 80G certificate. And stay compliant with Indian laws.

I and my team at NGO Experts are always ready to help. Let's build a better society together.