In India, a society is a group of individuals who come together with a common purpose, typically for charitable, literary, scientific, or social welfare activities. Registering a society provides it with legal recognition and various benefits, including eligibility for tax exemptions, grants, and a formal structure for its operations. The process of society registration has been simplified with the availability of society registration online. This article provides a comprehensive guide on society registration online in India.

Understanding Society Registration

Under the Societies Registration Act, 1860, societies are registered to promote activities such as education, art, culture, and social welfare. The Act provides the legal framework for the registration and operation of societies in India. Each state in India may have additional rules and regulations governing the registration and management of societies.

Benefits of Society Registration Online

1. Legal Recognition: Registered societies gain legal status, which allows them to enter into contracts, own property, and sue or be sued.
2. Tax Exemptions: Societies can avail themselves of various tax benefits and exemptions under the Income Tax Act.
3. Access to Grants and Funding: Registered societies are eligible to apply for government and private grants and funding.
4. Credibility and Trust: Registration enhances the credibility and trustworthiness of the society, attracting donors and members.
5. Structured Operations: Legal recognition ensures a formal structure for managing the society’s activities and finances.

Steps for Society Registration Online

Step 1: Choose a Unique Name for the Society

The first step in society registration online is to choose a unique name that is not already in use or restricted by law. The name should not resemble the name of any existing registered society or violate any legal provisions.

Step 2: Prepare the Memorandum of Association (MOA)

The MOA is a crucial document that outlines the society’s objectives, activities, and the details of its founding members. It must include:

• The name of the society
• The registered office address
• The names, addresses, and occupations of the founding members
• The society’s objectives and purposes
• Details of the governing body members

Step 3: Prepare the Rules and Regulations

The rules and regulations document defines the internal governance structure of the society. It includes:

• Membership criteria and procedures
• Details of the general body meetings and governing body meetings
• Procedures for electing office bearers
• Financial management and audit procedures
• Amendment procedures for the MOA and rules and regulations

Step 4: Obtain Consent from the Founding Members

A minimum of seven members is required to form a society. Each founding member must consent to the formation of the society and sign the MOA and rules and regulations.

Step 5: Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) and Director Identification Number (DIN)

For society registration online, at least one of the founding members should have a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) and a Director Identification Number (DIN). These are necessary for signing and submitting the online application.

Step 6: Create an Account on the MCA Portal

Visit the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) website and create an account by providing basic details such as name, email address, and mobile number. This account will be used to submit the online application and track the registration process.

Step 7: Fill and Submit Form INC-1

Form INC-1 is used to reserve the society’s name. Fill out the form with the required details and submit it online through the MCA portal. The Registrar will verify the availability of the proposed name and approve it if it meets the legal requirements.

Step 8: Fill and Submit Form INC-29

Form INC-29 is used for society registration online. It combines several forms into one, simplifying the registration process. Fill out the form with details such as the society’s name, registered office address, and the details of the founding members and governing body. Attach the required documents, including the MOA, rules and regulations, and the DSC of the applicant.

Step 9: Payment of Fees

Pay the prescribed registration fee online through the MCA portal. The fee varies depending on the state and the type of society being registered.

Step 10: Verification and Approval

The Registrar will review the submitted application and documents. If everything is in order, the Registrar will issue a Certificate of Registration, formally recognizing the society. This certificate will be sent to the registered email address of the applicant.

Read: fcra registration online

Documents Required for Society Registration Online

1. Memorandum of Association (MOA)
2. Rules and Regulations
3. Consent Letters from Founding Members
4. Proof of Registered Office Address
   • Rent agreement or ownership deed
   • NOC from the landlord if the office is rented
5. Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)
6. Director Identification Number (DIN)
7. Identity and Address Proof of Founding Members
   • PAN card
   • Aadhaar card
   • Passport or voter ID
8. Passport-sized Photographs of Founding Members

Conclusion

Society registration online has simplified the process of obtaining legal recognition for societies in India. By following the steps outlined above and ensuring all required documents are in order, individuals and groups can successfully register their society online. Society registration online not only provides legal status but also opens up numerous opportunities for growth, funding, and credibility, allowing societies to focus on their charitable and social objectives.