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Section 8 Company Registration in India with YathraFin


A Section 8 Company is a special type of non-profit organization in India formed under the Companies Act, 2013, with the aim of promoting charity, education, social welfare, environment, or any other similar objective. Section 8 Companies enjoy several privileges, such as tax exemptions and government grants, making them an ideal structure for organizations with philanthropic goals. With YathraFin, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free registration process for your Section 8 Company while adhering to all legal compliance.


What is a Section 8 Company?


A Section 8 Company is a non-profit organization formed to promote objectives such as arts, science, commerce, charity, religion, sports, or any other useful purpose. Unlike other business structures, a Section 8 Company cannot distribute profits among its members, directors, or shareholders. It is specifically designed for organizations focused on social welfare, education, research, and similar causes. Section 8 Companies benefit from tax exemptions under Section 8 of the Companies Act, 2013, provided they meet the required criteria.


Why Choose YathraFin for Section 8 Company Registration?


YathraFin is committed to supporting social causes by providing streamlined and affordable services for Section 8 Company registration. Here’s why you should choose us:

  • Expert Guidance: Our team of professionals helps you navigate the legal requirements of setting up a Section 8 Company.
  • End-to-End Support: From registration to post-registration compliance, we offer comprehensive support for your non-profit.
  • Affordable Services: We provide budget-friendly services tailored for non-profit organizations to help you focus on your social mission.
  • Regulatory Compliance: We ensure that your Section 8 Company complies with all necessary regulations, including income tax exemptions.

Key Features of a Section 8 Company


  • Non-Profit Objective: The main purpose of the company must be to promote charity, education, art, culture, or other similar objectives.
  • Limited Liability: Members and directors enjoy limited liability, ensuring that their personal assets are protected.
  • No Profit Distribution: Unlike for-profit companies, Section 8 Companies cannot distribute profits to members, shareholders, or directors.
  • Tax Exemptions: Section 8 Companies can avail tax exemptions on income under Section 12A of the Income Tax Act, provided they comply with applicable regulations.
  • Grant and Funding Opportunities: Such companies can apply for government grants and funds for welfare and developmental activities.

Types of Section 8 Companies


Section 8 Companies are typically categorized based on their primary objective:

  • Charitable Section 8 Companies: These companies focus on public welfare activities such as providing education, healthcare, or aid to underprivileged groups.
  • Educational Section 8 Companies: Set up to promote education and learning, offering scholarships, free education, and similar activities.
  • Environmental Section 8 Companies: Focus on environmental sustainability and eco-friendly initiatives like conservation, tree planting, and renewable energy projects.
  • Sports and Cultural Section 8 Companies: Dedicated to promoting sports and cultural events, including organizing festivals, sports tournaments, and arts events.

Documents Required for Section 8 Company Registration


To register a Section 8 Company, you need to submit the following documents:

  • Identity Proof: PAN or Aadhar card of all members and directors.
  • Address Proof: Utility bills or property-related documents for the registered office.
  • Director Identification Number (DIN): Required for all directors.
  • Digital Signature Certificate (DSC): Needed to sign documents electronically.
  • Memorandum of Association (MOA): Describing the company’s objectives.
  • Articles of Association (AOA): Outlining the internal management rules.
  • Proof of Non-Profit Nature: A declaration stating the company’s primary objectives are non-profit.

Eligibility Criteria for Registering a Section 8 Company


To form a Section 8 Company, the following criteria must be met:

  • Non-Profit Objective: The company must be formed with the intention of promoting charitable, educational, or social welfare purposes.
  • Minimum Members: A minimum of two members (directors) is required.
  • Directors: At least two directors must be appointed, and they must have a DIN.
  • Office Address: The company must have a registered office in India.
  • No Distribution of Profits: All profits must be reinvested to achieve the company’s objectives.

Step-by-Step Registration Process with YathraFin


  • Step 1

    Obtain Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)

    This is required to sign the company’s documents electronically.

  • Step 2

    Apply for Director Identification Number (DIN)

    DIN is a mandatory requirement for all directors.

  • Step 3

    Name Reservation

    The proposed name of the Section 8 Company must be approved by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA).

  • Step 4

    Draft MOA and AOA

    The Memorandum and Articles of Association must clearly define the non-profit objectives and internal management.

  • Step 5

    File SPICe+ Form

    Submit the SPICe+ form to the MCA for incorporation, including the details of the company, members, and directors.

  • Step 6

    Certificate of Incorporation

    After MCA approval, you will receive a Certificate of Incorporation.

  • Step 7

    PAN and TAN Application

    Apply for PAN (Permanent Account Number) and TAN (Tax Deduction and Collection Account Number) for the company.

  • Step 8

    Comply with Tax Exemptions

    To avail of tax exemptions, the company must register with the Income Tax Department under Section 12A.

Rules and Regulations for Section 8 Companies


Section 8 Companies must comply with the following:

  • Non-Profit Declaration: The company’s activities must be strictly non-profit, with all income used to further its objectives.
  • Taxation and Exemptions: To avail of income tax exemptions, the company must file annual returns and ensure compliance with Section 12A of the Income Tax Act.
  • Governance and Oversight: Section 8 Companies are subject to the Companies Act, 2013, and must adhere to corporate governance norms.
  • Filing Annual Returns: Section 8 Companies are required to file annual financial statements and reports with the Registrar of Companies (ROC).

Compliance Requirements After Registration


After registration, a Section 8 Company needs to ensure the following compliance:

  • Annual General Meetings (AGM): Conduct AGMs and file annual returns with the ROC.
  • Tax Filings: Ensure timely filing of income tax returns and apply for any applicable tax exemptions.
  • Maintain Statutory Registers: Maintain registers for directors, members, and other corporate records.
  • Audit: Section 8 Companies must undergo annual audits to ensure financial transparency.
  • Charitable Activities: The company must ensure that all income is used exclusively for the non-profit objectives.

Benefits and Government Schemes for Section 8 Companies


Section 8 Companies enjoy several benefits, such as:

  • Tax Exemption: Section 8 Companies can avail tax exemptions under Section 12A and 80G of the Income Tax Act.
  • Government Grants and Donations: These companies are eligible to receive government funding, grants, and donations for welfare purposes.
  • Limited Liability Protection: Directors and members have limited liability, protecting their personal assets.
  • Access to CSR Funding: Section 8 Companies can receive Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funding from corporate bodies.
  • Public Trust: As a registered entity, Section 8 Companies gain credibility, making it easier to attract donors, investors, and volunteers.
FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

These FAQs cover essential details like eligibility, required documents, process steps, and benefits. It helps clarify common queries about setup, compliance, costs, and timelines.

The primary objective is to promote social welfare, education, charity, art, sports, or similar non-profit purposes.
No, all profits must be used to further the company’s non-profit objectives.
A minimum of two directors is required.
Section 8 Companies enjoy tax exemptions under Sections 12A and 80G of the Income Tax Act.
Yes, they are eligible for government grants and CSR funding.
Yes, but it requires the approval of the Central Government.
Yes, foreign nationals can be directors if they comply with legal requirements.
A minimum of two members is required.
Yes, they can own property, but it must be used for their non-profit activities.
No, a Section 8 Company cannot raise capital from the public as it is not for profit-making.
Documents required include PAN, identity and address proof of directors, MOA, AOA, and proof of registered office.
The process involves applying for DSC, DIN, name approval, and filing SPICe+ form along with MOA and AOA.
Yes, Section 8 Companies must conduct an annual audit of their accounts.
No, as a non-profit organization, a Section 8 Company cannot be listed on the stock exchange.
Violating the law can lead to penalties, cancellation of registration, and legal action.
Yes, but they must comply with FCRA (Foreign Contribution Regulation Act) if applicable.
The registration process can take anywhere from 15 to 30 days, depending on the government’s processing time.
There is no minimum capital requirement.
Compliance includes filing annual returns, tax filings, conducting AGMs, and maintaining statutory registers.
Yes, but any change in objectives requires approval from the Central Government.


By choosing YathraFin for your Section 8 Company registration, you ensure that your social welfare organization is established on a solid legal foundation. We take care of all the paperwork, compliance, and documentation so that you can focus on making a positive impact on society.