Society Registration

Society registration is a legal process by which a group of individuals are incorporated as a legal entity under the Societies Registration Act 1860. This Act was introduced with the objective of encouraging non-profit organizations including cultural, educational or charitable groups. The process of registration permits the group to function in an organized and transparent manner however, also providing a number of legal privileges.

Once registered, the society is acknowledged as a legal entity that can sue and be sued in its name, its property, and its associations. This legal status allows the society to gain public trust, raise funds and enter into partnerships or collaborations. In addition, societies can access government funding or actually apply for tax exemptions, making it easier to carry out projects and initiatives allied with other purposes. 

Registered organizations play an important role in contributing to the community. They support social welfare, health care, education, environment, arts and other causes. A society, even a small one, can actually exist for the sole purpose of providing local support, thereby strengthening the social fabric of the country.

Registering a society arises with many benefits that are vital for its even functioning and longstanding sustainability. Following are some of the key benefits of society registration:

• Legal Recognition and Authority: Society registration offers valid legal recognition as an entity that can operate in a regulated and organized way. They have the authorized capacity to enter into agreements, acquire property and perform other activities under the law.
• Tax exemptions: Registered organizations can benefit of tax exemptions, which make it easier to raise funds for social reasons. This has helped societies minimize operating costs and increase resources available for external activities.
• Enhanced Credibility: The registration process provides legitimacy to the organization. This helps build trust with donors, stakeholders and the general public, which contributes to a positive name.
• Access to government grants and funding: A listed organization is qualified to apply for government funding, grants and subsidies. This permits communities to actually access assets for their projects, making them additional sustainable.
• Ability to raise Funds: Registered institutions are able to raise funds through donations, contributions and membership fees, which is necessary to achieve the desired objectives. This has provided a stable financial foundation for the activities of the society.
• Limited liability for Members: The members of a registered society usually have limited liability, which means they are individually accountable for the debts and obligations of the society. This also provides a level of security to individuals involved in the society.
• Easy Transfer of Ownership: A registered society can own the property and transfer it as and when required, thereby providing flexibility in managing the properties. This operation is beneficial in terms of long term stability and adaptability.

Under the Societies Registration Act, 1860, the main objective of forming a society must be non-profit. Society can be of many types depending on the area of focus. There are several common types of society include:

• Charitable organizations: These are created to participate in charitable activities, such as providing assistance to the poor, encouraging health care, or running welfare programs. Charitable organizations are actually eligible for tax exemptions and government grants.
• Cultural Society: Cultural society is created with the aim of promoting art, culture and heritage. This society can organize concerts, festivals, art exhibitions and many other cultural programs.
• Educational Society: A society centred on education works for the advancement of learning and knowledge. They may inaugurate schools, colleges, or organize educational programmes, training workshops and seminars.
• Religious societies: Some societies are established with the purpose of encouraging religious activities, helping in building places of worship or spreading religious education.
• Sports and Recreation Organizations: These societies focus on promoting physical fitness, sports activities, and recreational programs, and often organize tournaments, camps, or sporting events for the community.

There are few key documents which are required during the process of registration. Following are some of the major documents:

• Memorandum of Association: A comprehensive document outlining the purpose, objectives and rules of the society, which must be signed by the establishing members.
• Articles of Association (AOA): This document lays- out the actual rules and regulations of the society, its internal supervision, and governance and membership rules.
• Identity Proof of Members: Copies of identity proof, passport, voter ID card, or Aadhar card of the founding members are required.
• Proof of Address: The following documents are necessary to provide the registered address of the society, such as utility bill or lease agreement.
• Passport Sized Photographs of the Members: Recent passport size photographs of the founding members are required to be attached with the application.

Following is the step- by- step procedure of society registration:

• Choose a name of the Society: Start with selecting a unique and meaningful name that reflects your goals. Ensure that the name follows the guidelines of the Societies Registration Act.
• Drafting Memorandum of Association (MOA): MOA summaries the purposes, rules and regulations of the society. It defines the objectives and governance structure of the society, which is crucial for the registration procedure.
• Filing the application with the Registrar: It is necessary to submit the actual application along with necessary documents to the Registrar of Societies. Documents include valid Memorandum of Association and Articles of Association.
• Verification Process: After the submission of the application, Registrar reviews the application along with the submitted documents and verifies the society’s compliance, whether the application meets legal norms or not. The verification process includes examining the structure and documents. 
• Issuance of Registration Certificate: After the successful verification of the application, the Registrar will issue the Registration certificate, and the society will be legally established. 

Choosing Corpseed offers several advantages for your business needs. Our team ensures compliance with all legal requirements, helping you set up your society smoothly.  Our user-friendly platform simplifies the documentation process, saving you time and effort. In addition, our expert team offers hassle-free registration services, providing consultations, document preparation, and prompt submissions. With our professional support, you can save time and avoid unnecessary delays, allowing you to focus on your social objectives. With a focus on customer satisfaction, Corpseed helps businesses grow while minimizing any administrative burdens.