Society Formation
1. What is a Society?
A Society is a non-profit organization formed for promoting charitable, educational, religious, or cultural purposes. It is registered under the Societies Registration Act, 1860, and is commonly used by groups working in the fields of social welfare, public interest, education, and similar causes.
2. Key Features of a Society:
- Non-Profit Purpose: Societies are established with the intention of working for public benefit, with profits reinvested into their activities.
- Member-Based: A society is typically formed by a group of individuals (minimum seven members) who come together to pursue a common objective.
- Separate Legal Entity: Once registered, the society is recognized as a separate legal entity, distinct from its members.
- Tax Benefits: Societies can avail of tax exemptions under the Income Tax Act, including 80G and 12A registrations, which allow donors to claim tax deductions.
3. Services Offered for Society Formation:
- Assistance in drafting the Memorandum of Association (MOA) and Rules & Regulations for the society.
- Name reservation and registration with the Registrar of Societies.
- Support in preparing and submitting the required documents for registration.
- Guidance on obtaining PAN, TAN, GST registration (if applicable).
- Assistance with securing FCRA registration for foreign funding.
- Ongoing compliance support for annual filings, audits, and legal obligations.
4. Benefits of Forming a Society in India:
- Legal Recognition: Provides a formal structure for organizations working for social causes.
- Access to Grants and Donations: Registered societies can apply for government grants and receive donations from various sources.
- Tax Exemptions: Eligible for tax exemptions, making it easier to manage funds.
- Credibility: Registered societies gain credibility and trust with the public, donors, and government bodies.
5. Documents Required for Society Formation:
- Identity proof of all members (Aadhar, PAN, passport, etc.).
- Address proof of the registered office (rent agreement, utility bill, etc.).
- MOA and Rules & Regulations specifying the objectives and governance structure.
- List of members with their details, including name, address, and signatures.
- Declaration by members regarding the non-profit nature of the society.
6. Process to Register a Society in India:
- Form a Governing Body: At least seven members (individuals or institutions) are required.
- Prepare the Documents: Draft the MOA and Rules & Regulations outlining the society’s objectives.
- Name Reservation: Submit the proposed name for the society to the Registrar of Societies.
- File the Application: Submit the necessary documents and forms to the Registrar of Societies in the respective state.
- Obtain Registration Certificate: Once approved, the Registrar will issue the Certificate of Registration for the society.
7. Post-Incorporation Compliance:
- File annual returns and financial statements with the Registrar of Societies.
- Maintain proper accounting records and conduct audits.
- Ensure compliance with applicable tax laws and FCRA (if applicable).
- Conduct annual meetings as per the society’s rules and regulations.
Why Choose Us?
Our team ensures a smooth and efficient society formation process, from initial planning to registration and ongoing compliance. We are dedicated to helping you establish a legally compliant and impactful organization that can work effectively toward its social, cultural, or educational goals.