What is NGO registration in India?

NGO registration is the legal process of establishing a non-profit organization under Indian law. You can register as a Trust under the Indian Trusts Act, 1882, a Society under the Societies Registration Act, 1860, or a Section 8 Company under Section 8 of the Companies Act, 2013. Registration gives your organization legal identity, enables tax exemption eligibility, and opens access to government grants and CSR funding.

What are the three types of NGO registration in India?

India offers three legal structures for NGOs: Trust (minimum 2 trustees, registered with Sub-Registrar or Charity Commissioner), Society (minimum 7 members, registered with Registrar of Societies), and Section 8 Company (minimum 2 directors and 2 shareholders, registered with MCA). Each structure has different compliance levels, liability protections, and suitability for various charitable objectives.

How much does NGO registration cost in India?

NGO registration costs depend on the structure. Trust registration costs ₹5,000 to ₹15,000 (including stamp duty of ₹100 to ₹500). Society registration costs ₹8,000 to ₹20,000. Section 8 Company registration costs ₹15,000 to ₹35,000 (including DSC, DIN, and MCA fees). At IncorpX, professional fees start at ₹1,999 with government fees at actuals.

What is the government fee for Trust registration?

Trust registration government fees include stamp duty on Trust Deed (₹100 to ₹500, state-dependent), Sub-Registrar registration fee (₹200 to ₹500), PAN application (₹107), and TAN application (₹65). Total government fees range from ₹372 to ₹1,172 depending on the state. Maharashtra charges ₹500 for charitable trust stamp duty under the Bombay Public Trust Act.

What is the government fee for Section 8 Company registration?

Section 8 Company government fees include RUN name reservation (₹1,000), INC-12 licence application (₹2,000), DSC per director (₹800 to ₹1,500), PAN (₹107), and TAN (₹65). DIN is included in SPICe+ at no extra charge. Total government fees range from ₹3,972 to ₹5,672 for a standard Section 8 Company with 2 directors.

What documents are required for NGO registration?

Common documents for all NGO types include PAN and Aadhaar of all founders, address proof (utility bill or bank statement not older than 2 months), passport-size photographs, registered office address proof with NOC from property owner, and the governing document. Trusts need a Trust Deed on stamp paper. Societies need an MOA and Rules. Section 8 Companies additionally require DSC and DIN for directors.

Do I need a Digital Signature Certificate for NGO registration?

DSC is mandatory only for Section 8 Company registration since all MCA filings must be digitally signed. Class 3 DSC is required for each proposed director and costs ₹800 to ₹1,500 per person. Trust and Society registrations do not require DSC. IncorpX handles DSC procurement for Section 8 Company registrations within 24 to 48 hours.

How to register an NGO online in India?

NGO registration follows 8 steps: (1) Choose the right structure with expert consultation, (2) Reserve a unique name, (3) Draft the governing document (Trust Deed, MOA, or AOA), (4) Collect and verify identity and address documents, (5) Execute documents on stamp paper where required, (6) File with the appropriate authority, (7) Obtain the registration certificate, and (8) Apply for PAN, TAN, and open a bank account. IncorpX handles the entire process from ₹1,999.

How long does NGO registration take in India?

Trust registration takes 7 to 10 working days. Society registration takes 10 to 15 working days. Section 8 Company registration takes 15 to 30 working days (including INC-12 licence approval). Timelines depend on document readiness and processing speed of the respective registering authority. IncorpX completes Trust registrations in as few as 7 working days.

What is 12A registration and why do NGOs need it?

12A registration under Section 12A of the Income Tax Act grants complete income tax exemption to NGOs on income from donations, grants, and charitable activities. Without 12A, the NGO's income is taxable at normal rates. Under the new regime (post-April 2021), new NGOs receive provisional 12A registration valid for 3 years. Permanent registration is valid for 5 years and must be renewed through Form 10AB.

What is 80G registration and how does it benefit donors?

80G registration under Section 80G of the Income Tax Act allows donors to claim 50% or 100% tax deduction on donations made to the NGO. This makes your NGO more attractive for fundraising since donors receive direct tax benefits. 80G registration requires prior 12A registration and is valid for 5 years. At IncorpX, we handle both 12A and 80G applications simultaneously.

How to apply for 12A and 80G registration?

Apply online through the Income Tax e-filing portal using Form 10A (for new NGOs, provisional) or Form 10AB (for permanent registration). Documents required include the registration certificate, Trust Deed or MOA/AOA, PAN, bank statements, and activity reports. Processing takes 30 to 60 working days. IncorpX provides complete 12A and 80G registration assistance.

What is the difference between 12A, 12AA, and 12AB registration?

12A was the original tax exemption provision. 12AA was introduced for NGOs registered after a certain date. From April 2021, both were replaced by 12AB under the new regime. All existing NGOs with 12A or 12AA must migrate to 12AB by filing Form 10AB. The 12AB registration is valid for 5 years and requires renewal. New NGOs apply directly under 12AB.

What is FCRA registration and when is it required?

FCRA registration under the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act, 2010 is mandatory for NGOs receiving foreign donations. Without FCRA, accepting funds from foreign sources (including NRIs and international foundations) is illegal. The NGO must be operational for at least 3 years and must have spent a minimum of ₹15 lakhs on charitable activities. The government fee is ₹5,000.

Who is eligible for FCRA registration?

To qualify for FCRA registration , an NGO must have been registered for at least 3 years, spent a minimum of ₹15 lakhs on its core charitable activities during those 3 years, and maintained audited accounts. The NGO must open a designated FCRA bank account at the State Bank of India, New Delhi Main Branch as mandated by the FCRA Amendment Rules, 2020.

What is NGO Darpan registration?

NGO Darpan is a portal managed by NITI Aayog providing a public database of registered NGOs in India. Registration on NGO Darpan is free and essential for receiving government grants, partnering with government welfare programs, and establishing organizational credibility. You need your registration certificate, PAN, and activity details. The unique ID issued is required for many government scheme applications.

What is CSR-1 registration for NGOs?

CSR-1 registration on the MCA portal is mandatory for NGOs seeking to receive Corporate Social Responsibility funds from companies. Under the Companies (CSR Policy) Amendment Rules, 2021, every NGO must register on the CSR-1 portal with its PAN, registration certificate, and 12A/80G details. Without CSR-1 registration, companies cannot legally transfer CSR funds to your NGO.

Can an NGO receive CSR funding from companies?

Yes, NGOs with valid 12A, 80G, and CSR-1 registration can receive CSR funds. Companies with net worth above ₹500 crore, turnover above ₹1,000 crore, or net profit above ₹5 crore must spend 2% of average net profits on CSR under Section 135 of the Companies Act. Section 8 Companies are preferred by corporates for CSR funding due to their MCA oversight and structured governance.

What is the minimum number of members required for each NGO type?

Trust: Minimum 2 trustees (including the Author/Settlor). Society: Minimum 7 members from the same state. Section 8 Company: Minimum 2 directors and 2 shareholders. At least one person in each structure must be an Indian resident who has stayed in India for 182 or more days in the previous calendar year.

Who is eligible to register an NGO in India?

Any Indian citizen above 18 years with a valid PAN card can register an NGO. The founders must have no criminal record and no disqualification under any applicable law. The primary objective must be charitable, social, educational, or religious. A registered office address in India is mandatory. NRIs and foreign nationals can also participate, subject to residency requirements for key positions.

Can NRIs register an NGO in India?

Yes, NRIs can register and be part of an NGO in India. They can serve as trustees, members, or directors. However, at least one trustee, member, or director must be an Indian resident (182+ days in India). NRI contributions from NRE accounts may trigger FCRA requirements. IncorpX assists NRIs with complete NGO registration including documentation for overseas applicants.

Can foreign nationals be part of an Indian NGO?

Yes, foreign nationals can be members or directors of an NGO in India with certain restrictions. For Section 8 Companies , foreign nationals need a valid passport (notarized and apostilled) and DIN. For Trusts and Societies , foreign nationals can be members but face restrictions on holding key positions in states like Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu. FCRA registration is needed if the NGO plans to receive foreign contributions.

What is a Trust Deed and why is it important?

A Trust Deed is the foundational legal document for a Trust. It defines the trust's objectives, trustee powers and duties, beneficiary classes, management rules, amendment provisions, and dissolution procedures. The Trust Deed must be executed on stamp paper (₹100 to ₹500, state-dependent) and registered with the Sub-Registrar or Charity Commissioner. It serves as the constitution of the Trust.

What is the difference between a Trust and a Society?

A Trust requires only 2 trustees, is governed by a Trust Deed, offers simpler compliance, but trustees bear personal liability. A Society requires 7 members, has democratic governance with an elected managing committee, offers limited liability, but needs state-level registration and annual general meetings. Trusts suit family charities and religious organizations. Societies suit community and cultural bodies.

Which NGO structure is best for receiving CSR funding?

Section 8 Company is the best structure for CSR funding. Companies prefer Section 8 entities because of MCA oversight, structured governance, mandatory statutory audit, and higher transparency. Section 8 Companies also find it easier to obtain 12A, 80G, and CSR-1 registrations. For organizations focused on large-scale impact with corporate partnerships, Section 8 is the recommended choice.

What compliance is required for Section 8 Companies?

Section 8 Companies must file Form MGT-7A (annual return) within 60 days of AGM, Form AOC-4 (financial statements) within 30 days of AGM, conduct minimum 4 board meetings per year, hold an AGM by September 30, file DIR-3 KYC for each director by September 30, complete a statutory audit, and file ITR-7. Penalties for non-compliance start at ₹100 per day of delay.

What are the annual compliance requirements for NGOs?

All NGOs with 12A registration must file ITR-7 by October 31. Trusts maintain books of accounts. Societies file annual returns with the Registrar of Societies and hold AGMs. Section 8 Companies file MGT-7A, AOC-4, conduct board meetings, and complete statutory audits. NGOs with FCRA must file annual FC-4 returns. All 12A/80G registrations must be renewed every 5 years.

What is ITR-7 and when should NGOs file it?

ITR-7 is the income tax return form for NGOs registered under Section 12A/12AB. It must be filed by October 31 of each assessment year (or by the extended deadline). The return includes details of income, donations received, expenditure on charitable activities, and accumulated funds. An audit report under Section 12A(1)(b) is required if total income exceeds the basic exemption limit.

What happens if an NGO does not file its annual returns?

Non-filing leads to cancellation of 12A/80G registration (loss of tax exemption), penalties of ₹100 per day of delay for Section 8 Companies (MCA filings), late filing fees of ₹5,000 to ₹10,000 for ITR-7, FCRA registration cancellation if FC-4 is not filed, and potential deregistration. Directors of Section 8 Companies face personal disqualification under Section 164(2) of the Companies Act, 2013.

Can an NGO own property and assets?

Yes, registered NGOs can own property. Section 8 Companies and Societies are separate legal entities that directly own property in the organization's name. Trusts hold property through trustees on behalf of the Trust. All property must be used for the NGO's stated charitable objectives. Sale or transfer of NGO property requires proper authorization and compliance with the governing document.

Can an NGO pay salaries to its staff and trustees?

Yes, NGOs can pay reasonable salaries to employees, staff, and even trustees or directors for services rendered. Compensation must be in line with market rates and approved by the governing body. Excessive salaries attract scrutiny from the Income Tax Department and may jeopardize 12A/80G tax exemption status. Section 8 Company directors cannot receive remuneration unless authorized by the Central Government.

What is the validity of 12A and 80G registration?

Under the current tax regime (post-April 2021), new NGOs receive provisional 12A and 80G registration valid for 3 years . After demonstrating actual charitable activities, they must apply for permanent registration valid for 5 years . Both must be renewed before expiry by filing Form 10AB. Failure to renew results in loss of tax exemption and inability to provide donor tax benefits.

Can I convert a Trust into a Section 8 Company?

Yes, but it is a multi-step process: (1) dissolve the existing Trust per Trust Deed provisions with Charity Commissioner approval, (2) transfer all assets to the new Section 8 Company, (3) register the Section 8 Company with MCA through SPICe+, (4) apply for fresh 12A, 80G, and FCRA registrations. The conversion takes 3 to 6 months. IncorpX provides end-to-end conversion assistance.

What is the penalty for receiving foreign funds without FCRA registration?

Receiving foreign contributions without valid FCRA registration is punishable under the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act, 2010 . Penalties include imprisonment up to 5 years, a fine up to ₹10 lakhs (or five times the foreign contribution received, whichever is higher), and seizure of the foreign contribution. All foreign funds must be returned to the donor immediately.

Can an NGO operate in multiple states across India?

Section 8 Companies have central MCA registration valid across India with no additional filings. Trusts can operate pan-India if the Trust Deed allows, though some states require local registration. Societies are registered at the state level and may need separate registration in each state under respective State Societies Acts for formal operations.

What activities can an NGO legally undertake?

NGOs can undertake education, healthcare, women empowerment, child welfare, environmental conservation, rural development, disaster relief, arts and culture promotion, sports promotion, animal welfare, and skill development. Activities must align with the objectives stated in the governing document (Trust Deed, MOA, or AOA). Commercial activities are permitted if profits are reinvested into charitable purposes.

Can an NGO be dissolved after registration?

Yes. Trusts follow dissolution provisions in the Trust Deed, requiring Charity Commissioner approval. Societies need a special resolution with 3/5th majority and Registrar approval. Section 8 Companies undergo voluntary winding up under the Companies Act or NCLT-directed dissolution. Remaining assets must be transferred to another NGO with similar objectives, never to members.

How does IncorpX help with NGO registration?

IncorpX provides end-to-end NGO registration services starting at ₹1,999. Our package includes free consultation to choose the right structure, Trust Deed or MOA/AOA drafting, application filing with the registering authority, PAN and TAN application, bank account opening assistance, and follow-up with the department. We also assist with 12A and 80G registration , FCRA registration , and ongoing compliance.

What are the penalties for operating an unregistered NGO?

Operating without registration means no legal identity, inability to receive tax-exempt donations, no access to government grants or CSR funds, personal liability for organizers, taxability of all income at standard rates, difficulty opening bank accounts, and lack of donor credibility. Registration under any of the three structures provides legal protection, tax benefits, and access to institutional funding.

Can two NGOs merge into one entity?

Yes. Trusts require a complex process, sometimes needing court approval. Societies merge through special resolutions and Registrar approval. Section 8 Companies merge under Companies Act provisions with NCLT approval (similar to corporate mergers). Post-merger, all registrations (12A, 80G, FCRA, PAN) must be transferred or re-applied for in the surviving entity's name.

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NGO Registration Online in India

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Complete NGO Registration Package
Trust, Society & Section 8 Options
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Reviewed by CAs & Legal Experts: Nebin Binoy & Ashwin Raghu

Last Updated: 27 Apr 2026, 09:24 PM

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Types of NGO Registration in India

Discover the best NGO registration options for your mission. Compare Section 8 Company, Trust, and Society registration to find the ideal structure for your non-profit organization in India.

Section 8 Company Registration

Best for NGOs focused on charitable, educational, or social objectives. Enjoy legal recognition, tax benefits, and credibility with donors and government agencies.

Ideal for non-profits seeking grants and CSR funding
Limited liability for members
Separate legal entity under Companies Act, 2013
Eligible for 80G & 12A tax exemptions
Online registration in 10-15 working days

Trust Registration

Popular for charitable, religious, and social welfare activities. Simple setup and compliance, ideal for family or private trusts.

Quick registration under Indian Trusts Act, 1882
Minimum two trustees required
Suitable for property and asset management
Can apply for 12A & 80G tax benefits
Registration in 7-10 working days

Society Registration

Ideal for groups promoting art, culture, sports, or social causes. Democratic structure with easy membership and management.

Registered under Societies Registration Act, 1860
Minimum seven members required
Transparent and democratic management
Eligible for government grants and tax exemptions
Registration in 10-15 working days

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Parameter	Details
Governing Laws	Indian Trusts Act 1882, Societies Registration Act 1860, Companies Act 2013 (Section 8)
Registering Authorities	Sub-Registrar / Charity Commissioner, Registrar of Societies, Registrar of Companies (MCA)
Processing Time	7 to 30 working days (structure-dependent)
Professional Fee (IncorpX)	Starting at ₹1,999
Government Fee Range	₹372 to ₹5,672 (varies by structure and state)
Tax Exemption	Available through 12A and 80G registration (valid for 5 years)

Feature	Trust	Society	Section 8 Company
Governing Law	Indian Trusts Act, 1882	Societies Registration Act, 1860	Companies Act, 2013 (Section 8)
Registering Authority	Charity Commissioner / Sub-Registrar	Registrar of Societies (State)	Registrar of Companies (MCA)
Minimum Members	2 Trustees	7 Members	2 Directors + 2 Shareholders
Legal Status	Not a separate legal entity	Separate legal entity	Separate legal entity
Liability	Trustees personally liable	Limited liability for members	Limited liability for members
Registration Time	7 to 10 working days	10 to 15 working days	15 to 30 working days
Amendment Flexibility	Difficult to amend	Moderately flexible	Easy with MCA procedures
Compliance Level	Low	Moderate	High (MCA filings required)
CSR Funding Eligibility	Limited	Moderate	Preferred by corporates
Multi-State Operation	Allowed if Trust Deed permits	May need state-level registration	Central registration, pan-India
Total Cost Range	₹5,000 to ₹15,000	₹8,000 to ₹20,000	₹15,000 to ₹35,000
Best For	Family charities, religious trusts	Cultural bodies, sports clubs	Large NGOs, CSR recipients

Requirement	Trust	Society	Section 8 Company
Minimum Members	2 Trustees (Author/Settlor + Trustee)	7 Members from the same state	2 Directors + 2 Shareholders
Indian Resident Required	At least 1 trustee (182+ days in India)	At least 1 member	At least 1 director (182+ days)
Age Requirement	Above 18 years	Above 18 years	Above 18 years (director)
NRI Participation	Allowed as trustee	Allowed as member	Allowed as director/shareholder
Foreign Nationals	Allowed with restrictions	Allowed with state-specific rules	Allowed with valid passport, DIN
Registered Office	Required in India	Required in India	Required in India
PAN Requirement	Mandatory for all trustees	Mandatory for all members	Mandatory for all directors
DSC/DIN Required	Not required	Not required	DSC + DIN for all directors
Objective	Charitable, religious, social	Literary, scientific, charitable	Charitable, not-for-profit

Document	Trust	Society	Section 8 Company
Governing Document	Trust Deed on stamp paper (₹100 to ₹500)	MOA + Rules & Regulations	MOA + AOA (drafted by CS)
Identity Proof	PAN + Aadhaar of 2 trustees	PAN + Aadhaar of 7 members	PAN + Aadhaar of directors
Address Proof	Utility bill/bank statement (within 2 months)	Utility bill/bank statement (within 2 months)	Utility bill/bank statement (within 2 months)
Photographs	Passport-size of all trustees	Passport-size of all members	Passport-size of all directors
Office Proof	Rent agreement + NOC + utility bill	Rent agreement + NOC + utility bill	Rent agreement + NOC + utility bill
Declaration	Affidavit by settlor	Declaration by President/Secretary	INC-9 declaration + DIR-2 consent
DSC	Not required	Not required	Class 3 DSC for each director
DIN	Not required	Not required	DIN for each director (via SPICe+)

Cost Component	Trust (₹)	Society (₹)	Section 8 Company (₹)
Stamp Duty / Gov Fee	₹100 to ₹500	₹1,000 to ₹5,000	₹2,000 to ₹8,000
Registration Fee	₹200 to ₹500	₹1,000 to ₹3,000	₹500 to ₹2,000 (MCA)
DSC (per director)	Not Required	Not Required	₹800 to ₹1,500
PAN Application	₹107	₹107	₹107
TAN Application	₹65	₹65	₹65
Professional Fee (IncorpX)	₹1,999 onwards	₹2,999 onwards	₹5,999 onwards
Total Estimated Cost	₹5,000 to ₹15,000	₹8,000 to ₹20,000	₹15,000 to ₹35,000

Registration	Government Fee	Professional Fee	Validity
12A Registration	₹500	₹2,000 to ₹5,000	5 years (renewable)
80G Registration	₹500	₹2,000 to ₹5,000	5 years (renewable)
FCRA Registration	₹5,000	₹15,000 to ₹30,000	5 years (renewable)
NGO Darpan	Free	₹500 to ₹1,000	Perpetual
CSR-1 Registration	Free	₹1,000 to ₹2,000	Perpetual

Registration	Benefit	Beneficiary	Key Requirement
12A / 12AB	Complete income tax exemption on NGO income from donations, grants, and charitable activities	NGO	Apply via Form 10A (new) or 10AB (renewal); valid for 5 years
80G	Donors claim 50% or 100% tax deduction on donations from their taxable income	Donors	12A is prerequisite; valid for 5 years
FCRA	Legal authority to receive foreign donations and international grants	NGO	3 years of existence; ₹15 lakhs spent; SBI designated account
CSR Eligibility	Receive 2% CSR spend from qualifying companies under Section 135	NGO	Valid 12A, 80G, and CSR-1 registration
GST Exemption	Many charitable activities (education, healthcare, social welfare) exempt from GST	NGO	Activity-specific exemptions under GST law

NGO Type	Advantages	Disadvantages
Trust	Simple registration (7 to 10 days) Only 2 trustees required Minimal compliance obligations Lower operational costs Perpetual succession	Trustees are personally liable Trust Deed difficult to amend Not a separate legal entity Lower credibility for large funding Limited governance structure
Society	Democratic governance with elected body Limited liability for members Separate legal entity Flexible membership expansion Suitable for community organizations	Requires 7 members minimum State-level registration (may need multi-state filing) Annual general meetings mandatory Moderate compliance burden Rules vary by state
Section 8 Company	Highest credibility and recognition Limited liability protection Preferred by CSR funders and international donors Central registration valid pan-India Easy to amend objectives via MCA	Higher compliance (MGT-7A, AOC-4, board meetings) Longer registration (15 to 30 days) Mandatory statutory audit every year Higher professional fees DSC and DIN required for directors

Compliance	Deadline	Applicable To	Penalty for Non-Compliance
ITR-7 Filing	October 31 (annually)	All NGOs with 12A	₹5,000 to ₹10,000 late fee; loss of exemption
Form MGT-7A (Annual Return)	Within 60 days of AGM	Section 8 Company	₹100 per day of delay
Form AOC-4 (Financial Statements)	Within 30 days of AGM	Section 8 Company	₹100 per day of delay
Statutory Audit	Before AGM	Section 8 Company (mandatory); others if income exceeds ₹5 lakhs	Qualification of returns
Board Meetings	Minimum 4 per year	Section 8 Company	₹25,000 per meeting missed
DIR-3 KYC	September 30 (annually)	Section 8 Company directors	₹5,000 penalty; DIN deactivation
FC-4 Return (FCRA)	December 31 (annually)	All FCRA-registered NGOs	FCRA cancellation
12A/80G Renewal	6 months before expiry	All NGOs	Loss of tax exemption
Society Annual Return	As per state rules	Societies	Striking off from register

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Oct 7, 2025

NGO Registration Online in India

Register Your Trust, Society or Section 8 Company in Just 7 Days Starting from ₹1,999 Only

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Types of NGO Registration in India

Section 8 Company Registration

Trust Registration

Society Registration

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NGO Registration Package

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Key Benefits

Important Notes

NGO Registration in India: Complete Guide 2026

Types of NGO Registration in India

Benefits of Registering an NGO in India

Eligibility for NGO Registration in India

Documents Required for NGO Registration

Step-by-Step NGO Registration Process

Step 1: Choose the Right NGO Structure

Step 2: Reserve Your NGO Name

Step 3: Draft the Governing Document

Step 4: Collect and Verify Documents

Step 5: Execute Documents on Stamp Paper

Step 6: File the Registration Application

Step 7: Obtain Registration Certificate

Step 8: Apply for PAN, TAN, and Tax Exemptions

NGO Registration Cost in India (2026)

Additional Registration Costs

Tax Exemptions and Benefits for Registered NGOs

Trust vs Society vs Section 8 Company: Advantages and Disadvantages

After NGO Registration: Compliance Requirements

Why Register an NGO Through IncorpX?

Related NGO Services You May Need

Section 8 Company

Trust Registration

Society Registration

12A and 80G Registration

FCRA Registration

12AA / 12AB Registration

Frequently Asked Questions About NGO Registration in India

NGO Registration in various States

NGO Registration in various Cities

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