Complete Process of 12A Registration in India

What is 12A Registration?

12A registration is a tax exemption certificate issued by the Income Tax Department of India under Section 12A of the Income Tax Act, 1961. It allows NGOs, Trusts, Societies, and Section 8 Companies to claim exemption on their income, ensuring that donations and other earnings are not taxed.

Benefits of 12A Registration

✔ Tax exemption on income (including donations, grants, and other receipts)

✔ Eligibility to receive tax-free donations (with 80G certification)

✔ Enhanced credibility among donors and stakeholders

✔ Long-term financial sustainability for NGOs and charitable institutions

Eligibility for 12A Registration

- Trusts (Public or Private)

- Societies registered under the Societies Registration Act, 1860

- Section 8 Companies (Non-Profit Companies under the Companies Act, 2013)

- Religious or Charitable Institutions

Documents Required for 12A Registration

1. Registration Certificate (Trust Deed / Society Registration / Section 8 Certificate)

2. PAN Card of the organization

3. NOC from the landlord (if rented premises)

4. Audited Financial Statements (if already operational for more than 3 years)

5. Activity Report (Details of past and proposed charitable activities)

6. Bank Account Details

7. List of Governing Body Members (Trustees/Managing Committee)

8. Copy of ITR filed (if applicable)

Step-by-Step Process for 12A Registration

Step 1: Prepare Required Documents

Gather all necessary documents (as listed above) in scanned PDF format.

Step 2: Register on the Income Tax Portal

- Visit [https://www.incometax.gov.in/iec/foportal/](https://www.incometax.gov.in/iec/foportal/)

- Register as a "Trust/NGO" and obtain a login ID and password.

Step 3: Fill Form 10A Online

- Log in to the Income Tax portal.

- Go to "e-File" → "Income Tax Forms" → "File Income Tax Forms".

- Select Form 10A (Application for 12A registration).

- Fill in all details (organization’s name, PAN, address, objectives, etc.).

Step 4: Upload Supporting Documents

Attach scanned copies of all required documents.

Step 5: Submit the Application

- Verify all details and submit the form.

- A DSC (Digital Signature Certificate) of the authorized signatory is required.

Step 6: Receive Provisional 12A Certificate

- The Income Tax Department issues a provisional 12A certificate immediately upon submission (valid for 5 years).

Step 7: Final Approval by CIT (Commissioner of Income Tax)

- The CIT reviews the application and may ask for additional documents.

- If satisfied, the final 12A registration is granted (permanent in most cases).

Step 8: Start Availing Tax Benefits

Once approved, the organization can claim tax exemption on its income.

Processing Time & Fees

- Time: 1-3 months (Provisional approval is instant)

- Government Fee: ₹500 (for trusts/societies) | ₹1,500 (for Section 8 companies)

Why Choose Us for 12A Registration?

✅ Expert Assistance in documentation & application filing

✅ Fast Processing with minimal follow-ups

✅ 100% Approval Rate with proper compliance

✅ Post-registration support for 80G & FCRA (if needed)