Starting an NGO in India is a noble idea. But before helping others, you need to follow the right legal steps. The process to register NGO is simple when you know what to do. Here is a step-by-step guide that covers legal requirements, Darpan portal registration, and even Income Tax Filing for NGOs.

Choose the Right Type of NGO

The first step is to decide which type of NGO suits your goals.
 You can register an NGO as:

  • Trust under the Indian Trusts Act

  • Society under the Societies Registration Act

  • Section 8 Company under the Companies Act

Each type has different rules. Trusts are easier to manage. Societies are good for state-level work. Section 8 companies are preferred for large-scale operations.

Decide the Name and Objectives

Pick a name for your NGO. Make sure it’s unique. It should not match with any existing registered name. Also, clearly define your NGO’s objectives. Your goals should focus on social welfare, education, health, or similar causes.

This step is important. It reflects your mission and helps in documentation.

Draft the Required Documents

Now prepare the basic documents. These include:

  • Identity proof of the members

  • Address proof of the office

  • PAN card of members

  • Memorandum of Association (MOA)

  • Rules and regulations

These documents form the legal base of your NGO. Keep everything clean and properly signed.

File for Registration

Once your documents are ready, submit them to the appropriate authority.

  • For a Trust, register with the local Sub-Registrar

  • For a Society, go to the Registrar of Societies

  • For a Section 8 Company, file with the Ministry of Corporate Affairs

You also need two witnesses during registration. They must have valid ID proof. After submission, you will receive a registration certificate. This marks the legal birth of your NGO.

Complete Darpan Portal Registration

Once your NGO is registered, the next step is Darpan portal registration. This portal is managed by NITI Aayog. It helps you get government grants and work with government departments.

To register, visit the Darpan portal and fill out your NGO’s details. You need to upload your registration certificate, PAN, and other required documents. Once done, you’ll get a unique Darpan ID.

This ID is important. You’ll need it for applying to government schemes and CSR projects.

Apply for 12A and 80G Certificates

Your NGO must apply for tax exemptions. This will help donors get benefits and also help you avoid paying taxes on donations.

First, apply for 12A registration. This allows your NGO to be exempted from paying income tax.

Then, apply for 80G. It allows your donors to get tax deductions on their donations.

These applications are submitted online through the Income Tax portal. Approval takes time, but once granted, it builds credibility.

Begin Income Tax Filing

After registration and tax exemption, you must start Income Tax Filing. This is compulsory, even if your NGO’s income is zero.

File Form ITR-7 every financial year. Maintain proper books of accounts. Keep donation records and expense sheets updated.

Missing income tax returns can lead to penalties. Timely filing builds a strong legal record.

How NGO Experts Can Help

If all this feels confusing, NGO Experts is here to guide you. We are a legal consultancy company with experience in NGO formation. We make the process to register NGO smooth and simple.

Our team helps you choose the right NGO structure. We take care of your paperwork, Darpan portal registration, and guide you on Income Tax Filing.

With NGO Experts, you focus on your cause—we handle the legal part.

Conclusion

Starting an NGO requires planning, effort, and legal clarity. Follow the right process to register NGO and stay compliant. From choosing the right structure to Income Tax Filing, every step matters. Don’t miss Darpan portal registration, as it opens doors to government support.

Do it right from the beginning—and make your impact count.