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Trust Registration in India – Start Your Charitable Trust with N D Savla & Associates

Planning to establish a non-profit or charitable trust in India? A registered trust provides legal structure, credibility, and access to tax exemptions under Indian law.

At N D Savla & Associates, we offer expert-led Trust Registration services in India—from preparing your Trust Deed to securing your registration certificate and obtaining tax exemptions under 12A and 80G. We handle the legalities while you focus on your charitable mission.

Contact us today to kick-start your Trust registration process!

What is a Trust?

A Trust is a legal arrangement where the trustor (settlor) transfers specific assets to a trustee, who manages them for the benefit of one or more beneficiaries. It is formed with the intent to support charitable, educational, medical, religious, or public welfare purposes.

Trusts in India are governed primarily by the Indian Trusts Act, 1882, and must be registered with the Registrar of Trusts to obtain legal recognition.

Key Parties in a Trust

RoleDescription
Trustor / SettlorThe person who establishes the Trust and donates assets.
TrusteeThe individual/entity responsible for managing the Trust.
BeneficiaryThe person or group who benefits from the Trust.

Types of Trusts in India

Understanding the types of trusts is crucial before registration:

Public Trust

  • Formed for charitable or religious purposes

  • Benefits the general public

  • Regulated by state-specific acts (e.g., Bombay Public Trust Act, 1950)

Private Trust

  • Formed for specific individuals, families, or private groups

  • Governed under the Indian Trusts Act, 1882

Public-cum-Private Trust

  • Serves both public and private beneficiaries

  • Income is used partly for charitable purposes and partly for personal beneficiaries

Why Trust Registration is Important

Registering your trust is a legal requirement that ensures transparency and unlocks several benefits:

  • Legal Validity
  • Tax Exemptions under 12A and 80G
  • Public Credibility
  • Eligible for Grants and Donations
  • Regulated Governance Structure
  • Protects Trust Property from Misuse

Benefits of Trust Registration

BenefitDescription
Tax ExemptionsGet exemptions under Section 12AA & 80G of the Income Tax Act
Charitable ImpactSupport underprivileged sections through education, healthcare, etc.
Legal ProtectionSafeguards assets and prevents unauthorized claims
Inheritance PlanningHelps preserve family wealth
Probate AvoidanceEnsures smooth transfer of assets to beneficiaries
Global Asset ManagementUseful in immigration/emigration scenarios

Requirements for Trust Registration

To register a charitable trust, ensure the following:

  • Minimum 2 individuals are required to form a Trust

  • All parties must be competent and not disqualified by law

  • The objectives must be legally valid and non-commercial

  • Activities should align with the trust deed

  • Must not be against public interest or any Indian law

Key Clauses of a Trust Deed

The Trust Deed is a legally binding document and must include:

  • Name & duration of the Trust

  • Registered office address

  • Aims and objectives

  • Details of Settlor, Trustees, and Beneficiaries

  • Trust property and mode of transfer

  • Powers and duties of trustees

  • Amendment and dissolution clauses

The Trust Deed must be executed on stamp paper of appropriate value, based on the trust’s assets and state law.

Documents Required for Trust Registration

Before starting the registration process, ensure you have:

  • Trust Deed (with appropriate stamp duty)

  • Two passport-size photos of each party

  • PAN Card of Settlor and Trustees

  • Address and Identity Proof (Aadhaar/Voter ID/Passport)

  • Utility Bill of Registered Office

  • NOC from property owner (if rented)

  • MOA (Memorandum of Association) outlining trust objectives

For tax benefits:

  •  Application for 12A and 80G registration

Step-by-Step Trust Registration Process with N D Savla & Associates

Here’s how we simplify the entire process for you:

Step 1: Choose a Name for Your Trust

Ensure the name is unique and not protected under IP laws (Trademarks, Emblems Act, Copyright Act).

Step 2: Decide on Trustees and Settlor

Minimum of 2 trustees required; author of the trust cannot be a trustee.

Step 3: Draft the Trust Deed

This is the backbone of your trust. Our experts draft a legally sound, customized Trust Deed aligned with your goals.

Step 4: Submit to the Registrar

The deed and all necessary documents are submitted to the local Registrar of Trusts.

Step 5: Obtain Trust Registration Certificate

Upon successful verification, you receive the Trust Registration Certificate, which confirms your trust’s legal existence.

Step 6: Apply for 12A and 80G Registration

To avail of tax exemptions and attract donors, we help you apply for:

  • 12A (Income Tax Exemption for Trusts)

  • 80G (Tax Deduction for Donors)

Post-Registration Compliance

Once your Trust is registered, you must:

  • File annual reports and audited financials

  • Maintain proper account books

  • Renew 80G & 12A certificates (if needed)

  • Adhere to FCRA guidelines (for foreign funding)

  • Comply with applicable state and central laws

Trust Winding Up

If the Trust needs to be dissolved, the remaining assets must be transferred to another trust with similar objectives, in line with:

  • Provisions in the trust deed

  • Income Tax Act

  • Charity Commissioner / Court approvalsUnlawful dissolution or asset mismanagement can lead to legal consequences.

How N D Savla & Associates Helps with Trust Registration

At N D Savla & Associates, we simplify your journey from idea to execution with expert-led services:

  • Trust Deed Drafting
  • MOA & Trust Objectives Finalization
  • End-to-End Registration with Registrar
  • 12A and 80G Application
  • Legal Advisory for Compliance
  • Ongoing Support and Consultation

Whether you’re setting up a family trust, an NGO, or a religious/charitable trust—we ensure full legal compliance, tax benefits, and quick turnaround.
 
     
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