Online Trust Registration in India

Apply for NGO Trust Registration with certificate in India Just 5 days in India by GST Wala.100% genuine, affordable & hassle free trust registration.

• Consultation by Experts
• Trust Deed Drafting
• Application Filing with Trust Registrar
• PAN/ TAN of Trust
• Follow Up with Department

Get Online Trust Registration in India

Trusts, conceived with noble intentions to foster advancements in sciences, literature, and other commendable causes, serve various purposes such as mitigating scarcity, facilitating education for the underprivileged, and extending medical support. The formal process of Trust Registration involves officially enrolling a trust under the Trusts Act of 1882. This crucial legal step ensures the trust’s acknowledgment and adherence to legal parameters, providing it with legal validity and establishing its identity as an independent entity.

For those contemplating the establishment of a trust for non-profit or charitable objectives, trust registration is indispensable for ensuring smooth operations and compliance with legal obligations. At Registerkaro, our dedicated team of professionals is prepared to assist you at every stage of the trust registration process, aiming to deliver a seamless and efficient experience. Feel free to reach out to us today to discuss your trust registration requirements and leverage our expertise in establishing legally compliant and efficacious trusts.

Trusts – A Comprehensive Overview

Trusts are created by individuals to earmark a portion of their assets or property for the advantage of another person. This establishment involves a fiduciary relationship among the trustor, trustee, and beneficiary. The particulars of this relationship are delineated in the trust deed submitted during the trust registration process. The establishment of a trust occurs when the trustor transfers a specific asset or property to the trustee for the ultimate benefit of the beneficiary. Typically, the beneficiary, who is a third party, maintains a connection to both the trustor and the trustee.

Hence, the dynamics among the involved parties play a pivotal role in defining a trust. As per the provisions of the Indian Trusts Act of 1882, a trust is characterized as a “relationship between the trustor and trustee to hold specific benefits for the beneficiary.

Parties Involved in the Trust Registration Process

The trust registration process encompasses the participation of the following key parties:

1. Trustor:

The trustor is the individual who initiates the establishment of the trust. Typically, they are the proprietor of the assets or property being placed into the trust.

2. Trustee:

The trustee is an individual or entity entrusted with the responsibility of managing and overseeing the trust. They hold and administer the trust property on behalf of the trustor and for the benefit of the beneficiary.

3. Beneficiary:

The beneficiary is the person for whom the trust is established. They are the designated recipient of the benefits, assets, or property held within the trust. The beneficiary, often a third party known to both the trustor and trustee, is entitled to receive the benefits in accordance with the terms and conditions specified in the trust.

Categories of Trusts in India

Trusts can be categorized into various types based on the nature of their activities. Here is an overview of different types of trusts:

1. Public Trust:

Public trusts are established to benefit the general public. They often focus on charitable, educational, and religious purposes. The governance of public trusts is guided by specific statutes such as the Religious Endowments Act of 1863, the Charitable and Religious Trust Act of 1920, or the Bombay Public Trust Act of 1950. Charitable and religious trusts are prevalent examples of public trusts in India.

2. Private Trust:

Private trusts are established to carry out activities for specific individuals, families, or close associates. These trusts can have beneficiaries closely related to the trust’s founders and are governed by The Trusts Act of 1882.

3. Public Cum-Private Trust:

This type of trust serves both public and private purposes. It can utilize its income for the benefit of the public and specific individuals or families. The beneficiaries of a public cum-private trust can be a combination of public and private individuals.

Regulatory Oversight and Legislation for Trust Registration

The Registrar of Trusts serves as the principal regulatory authority entrusted with the responsibility of overseeing trust registration in India. Their pivotal role includes maintaining a comprehensive database of all registered trusts throughout the country. The registration process for private trusts is governed by the Trusts Act of 1882. In the realm of public trusts, there is no singular governing act that uniformly applies. Instead, public trusts in India are obligated to undergo registration with the relevant state authority, as stipulated by the applicable state act.

Several laws play a crucial role in regulating trusts in India, including:

1.Trusts Act of 1882

This legislation provides the legal framework for the registration and administration of private trusts. It delineates the rights, responsibilities, and procedures associated with the registration of private trusts.

2.Income Tax Act of 1961:

There is no minimum paid-up capital for the Registration of Section 8 Company. NGOs in India established as a Section 8 company need not use the words Private Limited or Limited in their name.

3. Societies Registration Act of 1860:

While not directly governing trust registration, this act regulates the formation and operation of societies engaged in charitable, literary, scientific, or artistic activities. Societies often collaborate with trusts and may pursue similar objectives.

Importance of Trust Registration

Trust registration is imperative for the following reasons:

Regulatory Compliance:

Trust registration ensures the proper regulation of trust activities, promoting adherence to laws and regulations governing their operation.

Advancement of Non-Commercial Activities:

Trusts aspire to advance non-commercial activities in fields such as arts, science, education, and the environment, thereby contributing to the betterment of society.

Income Tax Benefits:

Registered trusts can avail themselves of income tax benefits under sections 12A and 80G. This provision encourages donations and support for the initiatives undertaken by trusts.

Public Interest:

Public trusts, designed to serve the general public, are required to register to ensure that their activities align with the best interests of the public.

Legal Authorization for Business Operations:

Trust registration provides a legal license for conducting trust-related businesses, ensuring operations are carried out within the established legal framework.

Contribution to Social Sectors:

Trusts play a pivotal role in the development of sectors such as education, healthcare, social welfare, and the environment, contributing to the overall well-being of society. By undergoing registration, trusts not only fulfill their intended objectives but also gain legal recognition, opening avenues for government benefits and opportunities.

Advantages of Trust Registration

The process of trust registration provides several benefits to both individuals and organizations. Here are the key advantages:

Charitable Engagement:

Establishing a Charitable Trust allows individuals to benefit themselves, their beneficiaries, and their chosen charitable causes.

Tax Exemptions:

Registered trusts in India have access to tax exemptions provided by the Income Tax Department, enabling them to benefit from tax relaxations.

Financial Assistance:

Registered trusts contribute essential financial support to the underprivileged and the public through various charitable activities.

Legal Safeguards:

The Indian Trusts Act of 1882 ensures comprehensive legal protection, safeguarding the trust’s legal standing against unnecessary claims.

Family Wealth Management:

Trusts assist in allocating specific assets, preserving and managing family wealth that may be challenging to divide individually.

Probate Avoidance:

Trust registration facilitates the transfer of assets to heirs without probate, streamlining the asset distribution process.

Immigration/Emigration Benefits:

Establishing a trust proves advantageous during relocation, offering benefits such as tax mitigation, asset safeguarding, and flexibility in asset organization.

By undergoing trust registration, individuals can enjoy these benefits, encompassing financial advantages, legal protection, and flexibility in asset management.

Prerequisites for Trust Registration

To qualify for trust registration, the following conditions must be fulfilled:

• Minimum Number of Founders: Trust must be established by at least two or more individuals.
• Compliance with the Indian Trusts Act of 1882: The trust must be formed in accordance with the provisions specified in the Indian Trusts Act of 1882.
• Disqualification Status: None of the parties involved should be disqualified under any prevailing law in India.
• Conformity with Legal Objectives: The objectives of the trust must not contravene any existing laws in India.
• Fair and Just Conduct: The trustee must conduct their activities in a fair and just manner.
• Alignment with Public Interest: The formation of the trust should not be contrary to public interest or any other applicable laws.
• Non-Harmful Activities: The activities carried out by the trust must not cause harm to any individual.
• Consistency with Stated Objectives: The trust activities should align with the objectives outlined in the trust deed..
• Appropriately Drafted Trust Deed: The trust deed must be drafted appropriately, reflecting the genuine interests of the parties involved in forming the trust.
• Validity of Multiple Objectives: If the trust has more than two purposes, both purposes must be valid. If one goal is reasonable and the other is invalid, trust cannot be formed..

Components of a Trust Deed

A trust deed stands as a pivotal document delineating essential details and provisions governing a trust. It encompasses the following key clauses:

• Operational Period: Specifies the duration or term for which the trust will remain in operation.
• Registered Office Address: Indicates the official address of the trust’s registered office.
• Geographical Scope: Defines the geographical area or region where the trust will conduct its activities.
• Goals and Objectives: Outlines the goals and objectives that the trust aims to achieve.
• Details of the Settlor: Provides information about the person establishing the trust (settlor) and details of the assets or property being transferred to the trust.
• Board of Trustees Information: Includes details about the board of trustees, encompassing their membership, qualifications, terms, and tenure.
• Roles, Responsibilities, and Powers of Trustees: Clearly defines the roles, responsibilities, and powers of the trustees.
• Amendment Procedures: Outlines procedures for amending the trust deed and provisions for the closure or termination of the trust.
• Legal Compliance Assurance: Ensures that the trust operates in accordance with relevant laws and regulations.

The trust deed serves as a legally binding document, providing clarity and guidance to all parties involved in the operations and functioning of the trust.

Documentation for Trust Registration

To facilitate the registration of a trust, the following documents are required:

• Trust Deed: A Trust Deed with the appropriate stamp value.
• Photographs: Two photographs of each party involved in the trust.
• PAN Cards: PAN cards of the individuals associated with the trust.
• Address Proof: Address proof of the individuals involved.
• Identity Proof: Identity proof of the individuals participating in the trust.
• Authentication from Partners: Authentication from partners, if applicable.
• No Objection Certificate (NOC): No Objection Certificate for using the premises, if applicable.
• Utility Bill: Any form of a utility bill serving as proof of address.
• Registered Office Address Proof: Address proof of the trust’s registered office.
• Income Tax Certificates: 12A Registration and 80G Certificates issued by the respective income tax authorities, if applicable, to claim deductions.

Procedure for Trust Registration

The detailed process for applying for Trust Registration is outlined below:

1. Name of the Trust:

Choose an appropriate name for the trust that adheres to the provisions of relevant acts, including Trademarks, Copyrights Act, Intellectual Property Rights Act, and Emblems and Names Act, 1950.

2. Settlers of the Trust:

Determine the individuals who will act as settlers of the trust. While there is no restriction on the number of trustees, a minimum of two trustees is required. The author of the trust cannot be a trustee, and all trustees must be residents of India.

3. Memorandum of Association (MOA):

Prepare a Memorandum of Association (MOA) outlining the objectives and purpose for which the trust is being formed. Ensure that the goals stated in the MOA are legally permissible.

4. Draft the Trust Deed:

Create a legally binding trust deed that establishes the trust. The trust deed, containing all terms and conditions agreed upon by the author, trustees, and beneficiaries, must be presented to the registrar during the registration process.

5. Submission to the Registrar:

Submit the drafted trust deed and other required documents to the registrar. This involves the active participation of the author, trustees, and beneficiaries.

6. Review by the Registrar:

After reviewing the submitted documents, the trust will be registered if the registrar is satisfied with their validity and compliance.

7. Certificate of Trust Registration:

Upon approval, the registrar will issue a trust registration certificate. Trustees and the trustor should retain this certificate. Subsequently, the trust, now registered, can open a bank account in its name.

Dissolution of a Trust

The dissolution of a trust takes place when all the properties/assets of the trust are lawfully distributed to the beneficiaries or a comparable entity, either directly or through resettlement. Throughout the dissolution process, the involved parties must ensure the proper handling of any tax obligations arising from the transfer of assets. It is crucial to adhere to the approval procedures of the charity commissioner, court, or other relevant laws to mitigate the risk of legal disputes.

How GST Wala Can Assist in Securing Trust Registration?

At GST Wala, our team of experts is dedicated to offering the essential assistance needed for Trust Registration and ensuring compliance. Trust registration in India involves complex legal implications that demand meticulous attention. Our professionals ensure that you acquire a comprehensive understanding of the governing provisions of Trust in India, empowering you to engage in Trust-related activities with minimal legal complications.