A Society is a group of individuals coming together for a common purpose, usually for the promotion of charitable, educational, scientific, literary, or cultural activities. Society registration in India is governed by the Societies Registration Act, 1860, and provides a legal framework for non-profit organizations to operate, receive donations, and work towards social welfare. It's an ideal structure for clubs, associations, cultural groups, and community organizations.
" Coming together is a beginning, staying together is progress, and working together is success. A registered society amplifies the power of collective action. "
Registering a society provides legal recognition to your organization, allowing it to enter into contracts, own property, receive grants and donations, and operate bank accounts. A minimum of seven members are required to form a society, and the registration process involves drafting a memorandum of association and rules & regulations. Once registered, the society enjoys perpetual succession and can apply for tax exemptions under Section 12A and 80G of the Income Tax Act.
A registered society offers numerous advantages for groups working towards charitable and social objectives.
A registered society is a group of individuals who come together for charitable, literary, scientific, or cultural purposes. It is registered under the Societies Registration Act, 1860 and gains legal status to operate, hold property, and receive funds.
A minimum of 7 members are required to register a society. These members become the governing body and must sign the memorandum of association. Some states may have specific additional requirements.
Required documents include Memorandum of Association, Rules & Regulations, ID proof and address proof of all members, address proof of registered office, passport-size photographs, and affidavit from President/Secretary.
Yes, a registered society can apply for 12A registration for income tax exemption and 80G registration to provide tax benefits to donors. Foreign contributions require separate FCRA registration from the Ministry of Home Affairs.
All three are non-profit structures. Society is state-registered under Societies Act, Trust is created via Trust Deed (requires 2+ trustees), and Section 8 Company is registered under Companies Act with stricter compliance. Choice depends on scale, geography, and operational requirements.
