Obtain tax exemption for your non-profit organization. Mandatory certification for NGOs, Trusts, and Societies under Income Tax Act, 1961.
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12A Registration is a certification issued under the Income Tax Act, 1961, that provides tax exemption benefits to non-profit organizations such as NGOs, trusts, and societies. This certification allows these organizations to focus their financial resources on philanthropic activities rather than tax liabilities.
Organizations with 12A Registration can claim exemption on surplus income, provided it is used exclusively for charitable or religious purposes. This certification also strengthens credibility in the eyes of donors, government bodies, and grant providers.
Organizations can claim exemptions on surplus income used for charitable purposes.
Establishes legitimacy with donors, government bodies, and grant providers.
Donors can claim tax deductions under Section 80G, encouraging philanthropy.
12A Registration is crucial for non-profit organizations aiming to operate legally, transparently, and effectively in India. It provides multiple benefits that enhance operational efficiency and credibility.
Reduces tax liabilities, allowing more funds for charity.
Enhances legitimacy with donors and government agencies.
Required for securing grants and corporate funding.
Donors get tax benefits under Section 80G.
Provides formal identity and regulatory protection.
Ensures financial stability and resource access.
One of the most significant benefits of obtaining 12A Registration is the tax exemption on income earned by the organization. Non-profit organizations that receive 12A status are not required to pay income tax on the funds they raise, as long as these funds are used for charitable purposes. This allows organizations to reinvest more resources into their mission, enhancing their overall impact and reach.
12A Registration is essential for non-profit organizations to qualify for various grants, funding opportunities, and donations. Many government programs, international donors, and philanthropic organizations require 12A status before providing financial support. Furthermore, donors who contribute to 12A-registered organizations can claim tax deductions under Section 80G, making it more attractive for them to contribute. This opens up numerous funding avenues, helping the organization secure financial resources for their activities.
Having 12A Registration establishes an organization as legitimate and credible, building trust with stakeholders, including donors, government bodies, and the public. This credibility helps attract long-term financial support, ensuring that the organization can continue its charitable work effectively. The recognition of being a registered entity also boosts transparency and accountability, fostering confidence in the organization’s operations. In the long run, this enhances the organization’s ability to operate sustainably and meet its goals.
To qualify for 12A Registration, organizations must meet certain criteria. The registration is designed for non-profit entities that operate for charitable purposes.
A trust is a legal arrangement where trustees hold assets for charitable beneficiaries. Trusts formed for charitable purposes can apply for 12A registration.
Non-profit companies registered under Section 8 of the Companies Act, 2013, established for charitable purposes without profit distribution.
Associations registered under the Societies Registration Act, 1860, formed to promote charitable activities.
Organizations working in education, healthcare, poverty relief, or social welfare, reinvesting surplus funds into their mission.
To qualify for 12A registration, an organisation must operate for one or more of the following charitable purposes:
The organisation must not engage in commercial activities or distribute profits among members. Its primary objective must be public welfare, not private gain.
To qualify for 12A Registration, the organization must meet the following conditions:
Attach scanned copies of the necessary documents (Trust Deed, PAN Card, Registration Certificate, Financial Statements, etc.). Ensure they are legible and clear.
If submitting the form online, a digital signature is required to authenticate the application. This ensures the application is legally valid and approved.
Some applications may require a small processing fee. Check the guidelines on the portal for the specific details.
After submission, you will receive an acknowledgement receipt. Keep this for your records.
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A guided roadmap for obtaining your 12A Registration smoothly.
Before you begin, ensure your organisation meets the eligibility criteria for 12A registration.
Collect required documents such as trust deed, PAN card, and financial statements, ensuring they are updated.
Complete Form 10A available on the Income Tax Department’s e-filing portal with organisation details.
Attach required documents in prescribed formats like PDF or JPG ensuring clarity.
Submit the completed form and documents through the Income Tax Department’s online portal.
Upon successful verification, the 12A Registration certificate is issued, granting tax exemption status.
Complete your 12A Registration through the Income Tax e-filing portal.
Visit the official Income Tax e-filing portal and create an account or log in if you already have one.
Find the "e-File" option and select the applicable section for applying for 12A Registration (Form 10A).
Fill in all required information about the organization, such as its charitable objectives and activities.
After filling out the form, submit it electronically via the portal. You will receive an acknowledgement receipt for your records.
12A Registration is typically valid indefinitely unless specific circumstances require renewal. However, recent amendments may necessitate periodic renewal, ensuring the organization's compliance with updated regulations.
Updated trust deeds, audited financial statements, PAN cards, and activity reports.
Submit Form 10A (or applicable form) via the Income Tax Department's portal.
Address queries raised by the Commissioner of Income Tax during the review process.
Rectify past discrepancies and adhere strictly to charitable purposes.
Once you submit your application for 12A Registration, the Income Tax Department will review your submission.
Once you submit your application, the Commissioner of Income Tax will verify the information provided. This involves a detailed scrutiny to ensure compliance and authenticity:
The documents submitted such as trust deed, PAN card, financial statements etc. will be checked for compliance with the Income Tax Act.
The authority will examine whether the organisation's activities comply with the definition of charitable purposes under the Income Tax Act.
If further information is required or there are discrepancies, the Commissioner may ask for clarification or supporting documents.
Based on the review, the Commissioner may arrive at one of the following outcomes:
If all criteria are met, the organization will be granted 12A Registration, providing it with tax exemption and other benefits.
The Commissioner may request additional explanations or documentation if some aspects of the application are unclear.
Applications may be rejected due to non-compliance, insufficient documentation, or non-qualifying activities. Organizations can appeal such decisions or reapply after rectifying the issues.
The process typically takes 2–3 months from the date of application submission. However, delays may occur based on various factors.
