CSR Registration - Registrations.Biz

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Overview

CSR Registration is mandatory for all NGOs and non-profit entities that wish to receive funds from companies under the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) provisions of the Companies Act, 2013. It involves obtaining a CSR Registration Number from the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) through the Form CSR-1. Only organizations registered as Trusts, Societies, or Section 8 Companies and meeting the required compliance criteria are eligible to undertake CSR activities on behalf of companies.

Benefits of CSR Registration

Eligibility to Receive CSR Funds – Access funding from companies mandated to spend on CSR activities.
Enhanced Credibility – MCA registration builds trust with donors, corporate partners, and stakeholders.
Expanded Social Impact – Enables large-scale projects in education, healthcare, environment, and rural development.
Compliance Recognition – Ensures adherence to Companies Act, 2013, boosting corporate partnerships.
Visibility & Networking – Registered NGOs are more likely to be approached by companies for CSR projects.

Requirements

The NGO must be legally registered as a Trust, Society, or Section 8 Company.
Valid 12A and 80G certificates for income tax exemption (recommended).
Active PAN Card and bank account of the organization.
A clear track record of charitable activities (usually three years of operations, unless newly incorporated Section 8 Company).
Properly maintained books of accounts and annual reports.

Eligibility

Any NGO registered as a Trust (under Indian Trust Act), Society (under Societies Registration Act), or Section 8 Company (under Companies Act, 2013).
Entities must have a valid registration certificate and comply with Income Tax Act provisions.
Organizations should be engaged in activities listed under Schedule VII of the Companies Act, such as education, healthcare, poverty alleviation, environment, etc.
NGOs without three years of operations can partner with experienced entities for CSR projects.

Required Documents

NGO Registration Certificate (Trust Deed, Society Certificate, or Section 8 Incorporation Certificate).
PAN Card of the NGO.
Details of governing body members (Aadhaar, PAN, and contact information).
12A and 80G registration certificates (for tax exemptions).
Bank account details and canceled cheque.
Annual reports and activity details for the last three financial years.
Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) of an authorized signatory.

Registration Process in India

Ensure Legal Eligibility – Verify that your NGO is registered as a Trust, Society, or Section 8 Company.
Obtain DSC of Authorized Signatory – Required for filing Form CSR-1.
Prepare Documentation – Gather NGO registration, PAN, and tax exemption certificates.
File Form CSR-1 on MCA Portal – Submit details of the organization and its governing body.
Verification by MCA – MCA verifies the authenticity of the application and documents.
Receive CSR Registration Number – A unique CSR number is issued upon successful registration.
Post-Registration Compliance – Maintain activity reports, accounts, and compliance for CSR funds received.

1. What is CSR Registration, and why is it required?

CSR Registration is a process where NGOs obtain a CSR number from MCA, enabling them to receive CSR funds from companies under the Companies Act, 2013.

2. Who needs to register for CSR?

Any NGO (Trust, Society, or Section 8 Company) that wants to receive CSR funds from companies must register by filing Form CSR-1.

3. Does CSR Registration expire?

No, once issued, the CSR Registration Number is valid as long as the NGO maintains compliance.