Register a society under the Societies Registration Act to create a legal entity for charitable, cultural, educational, social welfare, and other collective purposes.
Society registration allows a group of individuals to legally come together and form an organisation to pursue common objectives such as charitable, educational, cultural, scientific, literary, religious, or social welfare activities under the Societies Registration Act, 1860. A society gains a separate legal identity once it is registered, allowing it to sue or be sued, own property, enter into contracts, receive grants or donations, and take formal decisions through its governing body. To register, a minimum number of founding members — often seven or more — must agree on objectives, prepare a Memorandum of Association that states the aims and governance structure, and draft Rules and Regulations (Bye-laws) that govern membership, meetings, governance processes and internal operations. These documents are signed by all founding members and submitted along with prescribed affidavits and proofs to the Registrar of Societies in the state where the society’s registered office will be located. Once approved, the Registrar issues a registration certificate, making the society a recognised legal entity. Registered societies are often eligible for income tax exemptions and greater credibility in fundraising and partnerships. Compliance with state-level rules and annual filings helps maintain active status and ensures transparency in operations.
Creates a separate legal identity that enables holding property and entering contracts.
Enhances reputation with donors, partners, and regulatory bodies.
Makes it easier to mobilise funds, donations, and grants for collective causes.
Defined governance and rules improve accountability and operations.
Provides a recognised legal framework for pursuing social objectives.
Facilitates ownership of assets and ensures continuity beyond individual members.
Complies with the Societies Registration Act and applicable state rules.
Registered societies may be eligible for tax exemptions and subsidies under various laws.
Founding members select a unique name and agree on charitable or social objectives.
Prepare the Memorandum of Association and Rules/Bye-laws signed by all founders and witnessed.
Gather affidavits, member lists, office address proof and NOC if required.
File application and documents with the State Registrar of Societies for approval.
Discuss your group’s objectives and registration requirements with a legal professional.
Draft and sign the Memorandum, Rules & Regulations, and affidavits.
File the complete application with the Registrar of Societies in your state.
Once approved, receive the society’s registration certificate and registration number.
Application may be rejected.
How to avoid: Ensure the name is distinct and not already registered.
Registration delays or rejection.
How to avoid: Prepare all MOA, Rules, affidavits, and proofs carefully.
Invalid or vague registration purpose.
How to avoid: Clearly define the society’s charitable or social objectives.
Regulatory issues.
How to avoid: Comply with your state’s specific requirements and procedures.
Society registration formalises a group of individuals into a legal entity for charitable, educational or social purposes under the Societies Registration Act, 1860.
Typically a minimum of seven members is required to register a society.
Applications are filed with the Registrar of Societies in the state where the society’s office is located.
Yes, individuals including foreigners can be members if the Act and state rules permit.
Registered societies may be eligible for tax exemptions subject to fulfilling conditions under income tax laws.
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