Society Registration

Society Registration in India – Complete Guide

What is a Society?

A Society is a group of individuals united by a common non-profit objective, such as promoting education, art, culture, religion, sports, science, or social welfare. Societies are typically formed by voluntary associations and governed by the Societies Registration Act, 1860 (central) or relevant state laws.

A society gains legal recognition after registration and can operate as a legal entity.

Common Objectives for Society Formation:

• Charitable activities

• Education and literacy promotion

• Religious or spiritual development

• Promotion of art, music, and culture

• Public health and environmental protection

• Welfare of underprivileged groups

Documents Required:

1. Memorandum of Association (MoA) – Must include:

• Name of the society

• Address

• Objectives

• Names & addresses of founding members

• Signature of all members (usually on each page)

2. Rules & Regulations (Bye-laws) – Should cover:

• Membership eligibility

• Powers and duties of the governing body

• Meeting procedures

• Dissolution process

• Amendment procedure

3. Supporting Documents:

• PAN & Aadhaar of all members

• Passport-size photographs

• Address proof of registered office (rent agreement or ownership document)

• NOC from landlord (if rented)

• Affidavit from president/secretary (in some states)

Registration Process:

1. Prepare MoA and Rules & Regulations

   • Drafted and signed by all founding members.

2. Choose a Unique Name for the Society

   • Should not be identical to an existing society/trademark.

3. Submit Application to Registrar of Societies

   • Along with MoA, rules, affidavits, ID/address proofs, and registration fee.

4. Verification by Registrar

   • May include document review or in-person clarification.

5. Certificate of Registration Issued

   • Once approved, a registration number and certificate are provided.

Time Required:

Usually 10–20 working days, depending on the state and documentation.

Post-Registration Compliances:

• PAN card application for society

• Open bank account in society’s name

• Apply for 12A and 80G (for tax exemption)

• Maintain minutes of meetings & account books

• Annual filing with Registrar of Societies (as per state laws)

Why Choose SSA TAX for Society Registration?

We offer:

• Complete drafting of MoA & Rules

• Filing with Registrar of Societies

• PAN & Bank Account Setup

• 12A & 80G Application

• Post-registration compliance & advisory