Society registration refers to the legal process of forming a non-profit organization under the Societies Registration Act, 1860. A society is established for promoting charitable, literary, scientific, cultural, educational, or social welfare objectives.
Societies are commonly used by NGOs, welfare associations, clubs, educational institutions, and charitable organizations to operate in a structured and legally recognized manner.
Features of Society
- Voluntary Association
- Separate Legal Identity
- Non-Profit Nature
- Democratic Structure
- Flexible Management
Benefits of Society
- Legal recognition as a non-profit organization
- Eligibility for government grants and schemes
- Better credibility with donors and funding agencies
- Tax exemptions (if registered under Income Tax provisions like 12A & 80G)
- Structured governance and management system
- Ability to open bank accounts in society’s name
Minimum requirement for Society Registration
- Minimum 7 members required (varies by state)
- Members can be individuals or organizations
- At least one governing body must be formed
- Registered office address in India is mandatory