Overview
A society is a not-for-profit entity that plays a crucial role in the promotion of charitable activities such as education, art, religion, culture, music, and sports. It brings together like-minded individuals committed to working collectively for a common purpose. In India, the Societies Registration Act of 1860 outlines the procedure for registering societies, and this legislation has been adopted by State Governments with or without amendments. In this article, we will guide you through the need and procedure for registering a Society.
Why Register Your Society?
Registering your society under the Societies Registration Act, 1860 provides numerous benefits:
Legal Recognition: Registration gives your society a legal status, ensuring its recognition by legal authorities.
Tax Benefits: It allows you to obtain income tax registrations, making your society eligible for various tax benefits.
Bank Account Opening: Registered societies can easily open bank accounts, facilitating financial transactions.
Property Vesting: Registration is essential for the proper vesting of property in the name of the society.
Get the support you need to grow your society
Register your society today
Purposes for Society Registration
Under the Societies Registration Act, a society can be registered for the following purposes:
- Grant of Charitable Assistance
- Creation of Military Orphan Funds
- Promotion of:
- Science, Literature, Fine Arts
- Instruction or Diffusion of Useful Knowledge
- Diffusion of Political Education
- Foundation and Maintenance of Libraries or Reading Rooms
- Foundation and Maintenance of Public Museums and Galleries
Please note that additional purposes may be available based on the specific amendments and implementations of the Act by the State Government.
Requirements for Society Registration
To register a society, you need a minimum of seven or more individuals who share a common goal. Not only individuals but also companies, partnership firms, registered societies, or even foreigners can come together to form a society by subscribing to the Memorandum of Association.
The Memorandum of Association is a vital document that outlines the society’s name, objectives, details of the governing body members, and the registered office address.
Procedure for Society Registration
The process for registering your society is as follows:
Review State-Specific Rules: Begin by reviewing the rules for Society Registration in the State where your society’s registered office will be situated.
Choose a Name and Objectives: Decide on a suitable name, the objectives of your society, and the registered office location. A minimum of seven individuals is required for this step.
Draft Memorandum of Association: Seek the expertise of a legal professional to draft the Memorandum of Association for your society. All members must sign each page of the Memorandum, which should be witnessed by a Notary Public.
Rules and Regulations: At least three members of the governing body should sign the Rules and Regulations of the Society.
Submission to Registrar: Once all the necessary documents are prepared and signed, submit them, along with other required documents, to the Registrar of Societies or the relevant authority in your State responsible for Society Registration.
Approval: The Registrar will review your application and either approve the Society registration or request additional information if necessary.
Upon successful registration, the certified copies of the Memorandum of Association and Rules & Regulations of the Society will serve as prima facie evidence of the Society’s Registration.
Benefits with us
Work smarter, save money, and get expert guidance. We’re here to help you succeed.
- Streamlined Registration Process
- Compliance Assurance
- Cost Efficiency
- Employee Welfare
- Expert Guidance
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a society be registered for commercial purposes?
No, societies are primarily meant for not-for-profit activities. Commercial activities are generally not eligible for society registration.
How long does the society registration process typically take?
The timeline can vary based on the State and the completeness of your application. It’s advisable to consult with legal professionals to expedite the process.
Is it necessary to have a physical office for society registration?
Yes, a registered office address is mandatory, and it should be situated within the State where you plan to register your society.
Can a foreigner be a member of a registered society in India?
Yes, foreigners can be members of a registered society, provided they comply with the applicable rules and regulations.
Are there any ongoing compliance requirements after society registration?
Yes, registered societies must comply with the reporting and compliance requirements as specified by the Societies Registration Act and the State Government. Failure to do so may lead to deregistration.
If you have more questions or need assistance with society registration, don’t hesitate to reach out us. We are here to guide you through the process and ensure your society’s legal recognition and compliance.