Non-profit organizations, including NGOs, trusts, and societies in India, need to register under Section 12A of the Income Tax Act to avail tax exemption benefits. This registration ensures that the income earned by the organization and used for charitable or religious purposes is not taxed. For anyone looking to start or formalize their non-profit entity, understanding the Online 12A Registration Process is essential for building credibility and complying with legal requirements.

While most businesses are familiar with tax and regulatory filings such as LLP Annual Return Filing , many NGOs overlook the importance of timely 12A registration. This process not only makes your organization eligible for tax exemption but also paves the way for applying for grants and CSR funds. With ebizfiling , you can ensure a smooth and compliant journey through the 12A registration process with end-to-end expert support.

What is 12A Registration?

Section 12A of the Income Tax Act, 1961, provides tax exemption to charitable and non-profit organizations on the income they earn, provided it's used for the intended purposes. Without this registration, any income generated by an NGO is taxable just like that of a private company or individual. By registering under Section 12A, an NGO can secure its funds and channel them toward social welfare initiatives.

Eligibility for 12A Registration

Any organization working for charitable purposes, such as:

• Relief to the poor

• Education

• Medical relief

• Preservation of the environment

• Promotion of arts and culture

is eligible to apply for 12A registration, provided it is set up as a Trust , Society , or Section 8 Company .

Step-by-Step Online 12A Registration Process Step 1: Register on the Income Tax Portal

Create an account on the Income Tax e-Filing Portal using the PAN of your organization.

Step 2: Prepare and Collect Required Documents

• PAN card of the NGO

• Trust deed / MOA & AOA / Registration certificate

• ID and address proof of trustees or directors

• Financial statements of the last three years (if applicable)

• Activity report

Step 3: File Form 10A Online

Login to the portal and file Form 10A under the “e-File” menu. Accurately fill in details of your organization and upload the supporting documents.

Step 4: Verification

Use either a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) or Electronic Verification Code (EVC) to verify the submission.

Step 5: Review and Issuance

The Income Tax Department will review your application. If all documents are in order, you will receive your 12A registration certificate electronically.

Processing Time and Validity

As per recent amendments, all registrations (including 12A) granted are valid for 5 years , after which they must be renewed. The processing usually takes 1-2 months , depending on the completeness and accuracy of your documents.

Benefits of 12A Registration

• Income Tax Exemption on surplus income

• Eligibility for Government and CSR Grants

• Enhanced Credibility in the eyes of donors and funding agencies

• Ease in 80G Registration , which offers tax benefits to your donors

Why Choose Ebizfiling?

At ebizfiling , we understand the critical importance of 12A registration for NGOs. Our experienced professionals simplify the Online 12A Registration Process by:

• Assisting with document preparation

• Filing Form 10A accurately

• Responding to departmental queries

• Tracking application status until certificate issuance

We also specialize in various compliance services like LLP Annual Return Filing , company incorporations, GST registrations, and more—making us a one-stop solution for all business and NGO compliance needs.

Conclusion

The Online 12A Registration Process is an essential step in setting up a tax-exempt, legally compliant NGO in India. Whether you're a new organization or converting from an informal setup, timely registration under Section 12A will not only reduce your tax liability but also open up funding opportunities and build long-term credibility. With a partner like ebizfiling , you can focus on your social mission while we take care of your legal and compliance responsibilities.