Trust Registration
About the Registration
Trust Registration is the legal process of creating a charitable or non-profit trust under the Indian Trusts Act, 1882 (or relevant State laws, where applicable). A Trust is formed to carry out activities for public benefit such as education, healthcare, social welfare, relief of the poor, human rights, environmental protection, religious or charitable purposes. Registration gives the Trust a lawful identity and enables it to function in a transparent and organized manner.
A Trust is created by the Settlor, who transfers property or funds to the Trust, to be managed by Trustees for the benefit of the beneficiaries or the general public. For Trust Registration, a minimum number of trustees is required (usually two or more, depending on the State). The core document of a Trust is the Trust Deed, which clearly defines the name of the Trust, objectives, details of trustees, powers and duties of trustees, management structure, and rules for operation and dissolution.
To register a Trust, essential documents such as identity and address proofs of trustees, passport-size photographs, address proof of the Trust office, and the Trust Deed must be submitted to the registering authority. Once the documents are verified and the deed is duly executed, the Trust is officially registered. The registration process generally takes 15 to 20 days, subject to proper documentation and local procedures.
After registration, a Trust gains several legal and operational benefits. It can open a bank account in its own name, receive donations and grants, own or lease property, and apply for important approvals such as 12A Registration (income tax exemption), 80G Registration (donor tax benefit), DARPAN Registration, and FCRA Registration (for foreign contributions). These registrations enhance credibility and enable sustainable funding.
In summary, Trust Registration is the foundation for lawful and long-term charitable activities. It ensures legal protection, builds public trust, and allows the organization to carry out social objectives efficiently, responsibly, and in compliance with the law.
A Trust is created by the Settlor, who transfers property or funds to the Trust, to be managed by Trustees for the benefit of the beneficiaries or the general public. For Trust Registration, a minimum number of trustees is required (usually two or more, depending on the State). The core document of a Trust is the Trust Deed, which clearly defines the name of the Trust, objectives, details of trustees, powers and duties of trustees, management structure, and rules for operation and dissolution.
To register a Trust, essential documents such as identity and address proofs of trustees, passport-size photographs, address proof of the Trust office, and the Trust Deed must be submitted to the registering authority. Once the documents are verified and the deed is duly executed, the Trust is officially registered. The registration process generally takes 15 to 20 days, subject to proper documentation and local procedures.
After registration, a Trust gains several legal and operational benefits. It can open a bank account in its own name, receive donations and grants, own or lease property, and apply for important approvals such as 12A Registration (income tax exemption), 80G Registration (donor tax benefit), DARPAN Registration, and FCRA Registration (for foreign contributions). These registrations enhance credibility and enable sustainable funding.
In summary, Trust Registration is the foundation for lawful and long-term charitable activities. It ensures legal protection, builds public trust, and allows the organization to carry out social objectives efficiently, responsibly, and in compliance with the law.
Ready to Register Your NGO or Political Party?
Get expert legal guidance, transparent consultancy, and end-to-end registration support under one roof.