Overview
A Public Charitable Trust is one of the oldest and most traditional forms of NGO registration in India. It is formed when a Settlor transfers property or funds to Trustees for the benefit of the public at large. Trusts are governed by the Indian Trusts Act, 1882, and are registered with the local Sub-Registrar of Assurances. This structure is highly suited for localized operations, managing specific community assets like schools, hospitals, orphanages, or religious institutions.
What is Included in Our Trust Registration Package
Detailed compliance and filing scope managed by JRC corporate experts.
Documents Required to Start
Upload digital files during onboarding. No physical submissions needed.
For Settlor, Trustees & Witnesses
- Aadhaar Card, Voter ID, or Passport (Originals required during registry visit)
- PAN Card copy of all parties
- Passport-sized photographs (2 each)
For the Trust Office
- Utility Bill (Electricity/Water) of the registered office
- NOC from the property owner
- Proof of the initial property/fund transferred (e.g., Bank Draft)
Step-by-Step Registration Timeline
Our step-by-step advisory workflow.
Step 1: Drafting the Trust Deed
We draft the Trust Deed outlining the name, address, objectives, rules, and initial corpus fund of the Trust.
Step 2: Stamp Duty Payment
We calculate and help you purchase the required non-judicial stamp paper based on your state's specific stamp act.
Step 3: Execution at Sub-Registrar
The Settlor, Trustees, and two Witnesses must visit the local Sub-Registrar office to sign and photographically execute the deed.
Step 4: PAN Application
Once the registered Trust Deed is received, we apply for the PAN card in the name of the Trust.
Key Advantages of a Trust
Trusts offer a localized, easily managed structure for dedicated charitable work.
Simple Management
Trusts have minimal ongoing statutory compliance. Unlike a Section 8 company, there are no mandatory annual MCA filings.
Asset Protection
Property dedicated to a Trust is safeguarded and can only be used for the specific charitable purposes defined in the Trust Deed.
Family Involvement
Trusts allow family members or closely associated individuals to maintain lifetime control over the charitable assets.
Tax Exemption Eligibility
Once registered, a Trust can apply for 12A, 80G, and FCRA registrations to receive tax exemptions and foreign donations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Helpful answers to common regulatory inquiries.
What is the minimum number of members required to form a Trust?▼
You need a minimum of 2 individuals to form a Trust: one Settlor (author) and one Trustee. However, usually, a minimum of 3 Trustees is recommended.
Can the Trust Deed be altered later?▼
Altering a registered Trust Deed is legally complex and often requires approval from a civil court or the Charity Commissioner. It is vital to draft it correctly the first time.
Does a Trust require an annual audit?▼
Yes, if the income of the Trust exceeds the basic exemption limit under the Income Tax Act, an annual audit by a Chartered Accountant is mandatory to maintain tax exemptions.

Professional Legal Desk
Corporate filings managed directly by certified Chartered Accountants & Company Secretaries.
Need Fast Track Assistance?
Speak directly with our senior corporate consultant for a detailed service overview and custom requirements.
Contact Desk