{"id":858,"date":"2026-08-06T23:54:08","date_gmt":"2026-08-06T18:24:08","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.taxaj.com/learn\/trust-registration-process-and-documents\/"},"modified":"2026-08-14T11:09:46","modified_gmt":"2026-08-14T05:39:46","slug":"trust-registration-process-and-documents","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.taxaj.com/learn\/trust-registration-process-and-documents\/","title":{"rendered":"Trust Registration \u2014 Process & Documents Required"},"content":{"rendered":"

A trust<\/strong> is one of the three common ways to set up an NGO in India (alongside a society and a Section 8 company). A public charitable trust is created by a trust deed<\/strong> and registered with the relevant authority. This guide covers the trust registration process and the documents required.<\/p>\n

What is a trust?<\/h2>\n

A trust is formed when a settlor (author)<\/strong> transfers property to trustees<\/strong> to hold and apply for the benefit of the beneficiaries or for a charitable\/public purpose. Public charitable trusts are registered under the Indian Trusts Act \/ applicable state Public Trust Act<\/strong> (e.g., the Maharashtra\/Gujarat Public Trusts Act) with the sub-registrar or the Charity Commissioner, depending on the state.<\/p>\n

Documents required for trust registration<\/h2>\n
    \n
  • Trust deed<\/strong> on stamp paper of the prescribed value, stating the name, objects, registered office, settlor, trustees and rules.<\/li>\n
  • Identity & address proof<\/strong> (PAN, Aadhaar) of the settlor and all trustees<\/strong>, with photographs.<\/li>\n
  • Address proof of the registered office<\/strong> and an NOC from the owner if rented.<\/li>\n
  • Details of the trustees and their roles (managing trustee, etc.).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

    Trust registration process<\/h2>\n
      \n
    1. Decide the trust name and objects<\/strong> and appoint the settlor and trustees (usually a minimum of two trustees).<\/li>\n
    2. Draft the trust deed<\/strong> and print it on stamp paper of the required value.<\/li>\n
    3. The settlor and trustees, with witnesses, present the deed for registration<\/strong> before the sub-registrar \/ Charity Commissioner as applicable in your state.<\/li>\n
    4. On registration, obtain the registered trust deed \/ certificate<\/strong>.<\/li>\n
    5. Apply for the trust’s PAN<\/strong>, open a bank account, and (for tax benefits) apply for 12A and 80G<\/a> registration.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

      TAXAJ handles trust and society registration<\/a> and NGO tax exemptions.<\/p>\n

      Frequently asked questions<\/h2>\n

      Under which law is a public trust registered?<\/h3>\n

      Under the Indian Trusts Act<\/strong> or the applicable state Public Trust Act<\/strong>, before the sub-registrar or Charity Commissioner as relevant.<\/p>\n

      How many trustees are needed to form a trust?<\/h3>\n

      Commonly a minimum of two<\/strong> trustees, in addition to the settlor (rules vary by state).<\/p>\n

      Does a trust need 12A\/80G?<\/h3>\n

      To be tax-exempt and let donors claim deductions, apply for 12A\/12AB and 80G<\/strong> after registration.<\/p>\n

      \n

      Setting up a charitable trust?<\/strong> TAXAJ drafts the deed, registers the trust and gets your 12A\/80G. Register your trust with TAXAJ \u2192<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n

      Related guides:<\/em> Section 8 company<\/a> \u00b7 12A & 80G<\/a> \u00b7 NGO types & benefits<\/a><\/p>\n