Charitable Trust Registration Services

CorpZo delivers comprehensive Trust Registration Services for individuals and organisations seeking to set up a legally recognised trust in India. Registering it is a crucial step for lawful asset management, carrying out charitable or social objectives, and claiming statutory tax benefits. Whether the intention is to form a charitable trust, a public Charity or charitable organization, or a private family trust, CorpZo ensures proper documentation, compliant registration, and adherence to applicable Indian laws. Our well-defined process minimises errors, avoids procedural delays, and provides complete assistance- from drafting the trust deed to handling post-registration requirements- enabling your organization to function with legal clarity and credibility.

Client Problems

During trust formation, clients often encounter the following challenges:

1. Difficulty in identifying the appropriate trust structure
2. Poorly drafted or standardised deeds that cause disputes later
3. Registration rejections due to missing clauses or incorrect drafting
4. Delays caused by state-specific registration procedures
5. Inability to open a bank account or obtain a PAN in the trust’s name
6. Complications in securing 12A and 80G approvals
7. Lack of clarity regarding trustee roles and statutory responsibilities

Engaging professional support is essential to mitigate these risks effectively.

Service Description (What CorpZo Does)

CorpZo offers end-to-end registration services for charities and charitable organizations, with a strong emphasis on compliance, precision, and long-term legal sustainability.

Our scope of work includes:

1. Evaluating the purpose and legal nature of the proposed organization
2. Advising on the suitable category, governance framework, and asset contribution
3. Drafting a legally robust and enforceable deed
4. Coordinating registration with the relevant authority
5. Assisting with post-registration tax and statutory formalities

We ensure that the trust is compliant, operationally sound, and structured for future continuity.

List of Services

Trust Deed Drafting and Review

1. Preparation of a customised Endowment deed
2. Clearly defining objectives, powers, and authority
3. Inclusion of clauses on governance, amendments, and dissolution
4. Legal review to eliminate ambiguity or conflicting provisions

Trust Registration

1. Charitable Trust Registration
2. Public NGO Registration
3. Private / Family Confidence NGO Registration

Stamp Duty and Registration Assistance

1. Guidance on state-wise stamp duty requirements
2. Coordination with local registration offices

PAN Application for Trust

1. Mandatory requirement for banking and tax compliance

12A and 80G Registration Support

1. Assessment of eligibility
2. Preparation of supporting documents
3. Filing and follow-up with tax authorities

Trustee Advisory Services

1. Explanation of trustee duties and powers
2. Compliance and fiduciary responsibility guidance

Post-Registration Support

1. Assistance with opening a bank account for entity
2. Compliance roadmap for ongoing operations

Classification of Types of Trusts

It can be categorised based on their creation, purpose, and legal intent. Key classifications include:

1. Charitable or Religious Trust

These are formed for public welfare, religious purposes, or charitable activities such as education, healthcare, or social development.

1. Express and Implied Trusts

Express Trust:
Created intentionally by the settlor or through a will, with clearly defined terms laid out in a written instrument.

Implied Trust:
Formed based on conduct or circumstances, where the intention to create a Responsibility or duty is inferred by law even if not explicitly stated.

1. Public and Private Trusts

Private Trust:
Established for the benefit of specific individuals or family members.

Public Responsibility or duty:
Formed for the benefit of the general public or a particular section of society.

Constructive Trust

This arises when a person holding property is legally obliged to transfer it to another due to wrongful acquisition or unjust enrichment.

How the Process Works

Preparation of Trust Deed

Although not mandatory, a deed is strongly recommended as it serves as legal proof of the trust’s existence and governance.

Key details included in the deed:

1. Name and address of the settlor
2. Names and addresses of Settlement
3. Registered office address
4. Enrollment name and objectives
5. Minimum and maximum number of Settlement
6. Rules and regulations governing the organization

Essential Particulars of a Trust Deed

1. Minimum of three parties involved in trust formation
2. Complete details of settlor and trustees
3. Beneficiary information
4. Clear statement of objectives
5. A minor cannot be appointed as a trustee

Registration of the Settlement

Once the deed is prepared, it is submitted for registration. While registration is not mandatory in all cases, it is required to obtain tax exemptions under Sections 12A and 80G. The signed deed is filed with the local registrar as proof of the Enrolment existence.

Tenure of Trustees

Trustees are generally appointed for a period ranging from one to five years, as defined in the deed.

12A and 80G Registration

To avail income tax exemptions and donor deductions, Filing must apply for registration under Sections 12A and 80G of the Income Tax Act.

Documents Required for Trust Registration

The registration application must be supported by:

1. Trust deed or documents creating the trust
2. Details of objectives
3. Information on income sources
4. Property ownership documents, if any
5. Details of encumbrances on trust property
6. Trustee and manager names with addresses
7. Title deeds related to assets
8. Scheme details, if applicable

Who Should Use This Service

1. Individuals planning philanthropic or social initiatives
2. Families managing collective or inherited assets
3. NGOs and non-profit organisations seeking legal recognition
4. Educational and religious institutions receiving donations
5. Trustees requiring professional compliance assistance

This service ensures that the Recording is set up correctly from the outset.

Why Choose CorpZo

1. Experienced professionals with strong legal and compliance knowledge
2. Practical understanding of Indian trust laws
3. Transparent and structured workflow
4. Expertise in state-specific registration requirements
5. Confidential handling of sensitive information
6. Time-bound execution with minimal client involvement

CorpZo prioritises accuracy, compliance, and reliability.

Legal and Regulatory Framework

Trust Registration Services in India are governed by:

1. Indian Entry Act, 1882
2. Registration Act, 1908
3. Income Tax Act, 1961 (PAN, 12A, 80G)
4. Applicable State Public Trust Acts

Compliance with these laws ensures statutory recognition and tax benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is Foundation registration?
It is the legal process of registering a deed to create a legally recognised organization.

2. Is trust registration compulsory in India?
Registration is essential for banking, tax benefits, and legal validity.

3. How many trustees are required?
Generally, at least two trustees are required.

4. What documents are needed?
Trust deed, identity and address proofs of trustees, photographs, and trust objectives.

5. What is the difference between a public and private trust?
Public trusts serve the general public, while private trusts benefit specific individuals or families.

6. Can CorpZo help with tax exemptions?
Yes, CorpZo assists with PAN, 12A, and 80G registrations.

7. How long does the registration process take?
Typically 7–15 working days, depending on state authority timelines.

Call to Action

Planning to register a trust with complete legal assurance?

1. Speak with CorpZo’s compliance professionals
2. Get complete Registration support
3. Ensure legal validity and tax compliance
4. Contact today to start your registration process with confidence.