How to Get 80G Registration in India (Complete Guide)

Get 80G Registration explained: this guide covers what it means, who it applies to, the step-by-step process, documents required, fees, due dates and penalties in India — so you can stay compliant with confidence and avoid costly mistakes.

80G Registration is one of the most common registrations Indian businesses ask us about. This complete guide covers what it is, who needs it, the documents, the exact process, fees, validity and the penalties for non-compliance — everything in one place.

What is 80G Registration?

80G Registration is granted by the Income Tax Department (Commissioner of Income Tax / Exemptions), via the e-filing portal under the Section 80G of the Income-tax Act, 1961. It is the legal authorisation that lets an eligible person or business operate in compliance with the applicable rules.

Who needs 80G Registration?

• NGOs, trusts and Section 8 companies that want to offer donors a tax deduction on their contributions
• Non-profits raising funds from individuals and companies who expect an 80G receipt
• Entities that already hold (or are applying together for) 12A registration

Benefits of 80G Registration

• Donors get a 50% deduction on eligible donations, making fundraising easier
• Improves donor confidence and repeat giving
• Frequently required for CSR and institutional funding
• Strengthens the NGO's credibility with regulators and grant bodies

Documents required

• Valid 12A / 12AB registration certificate (mandatory prerequisite)
• Trust deed / society or Section 8 incorporation documents and MOA
• PAN of the organisation
• Registered-office address proof
• Audited accounts and ITR acknowledgements of the last 1–3 years
• List of major donors and details of welfare activities
• Details of trustees / governing body members

80G Registration process — step by step

1. Ensure 12A is in place — 80G cannot be granted without a subsisting 12A/12AB registration — apply for both together if new.
2. File Form 10A / 10AB — On the e-filing portal choose the 80G section code under e-File → Income Tax Forms.
3. Upload supporting documents — Attach 12A order, financials, activity report and donor details.
4. E-verify with DSC / Aadhaar OTP — Submit the form after verification by the principal officer.
5. Receive Form 10AC approval — The department issues the 80G approval order with a URN quotable on donation receipts.
6. Renew via Form 10AB — File for regular 5-year approval within the prescribed window.

Fees, timeline and validity

Penalty for non-compliance

Issuing 80G receipts without valid approval is a serious compliance breach that can trigger cancellation of both 80G and 12A and denial of exemption. Donors' claimed deductions may also be disallowed.

Related guides on 80G Registration

• Documents Required for 80G Registration
• 80G Registration Eligibility Criteria
• 80G Registration Fees & Government Charges
• 80G Registration Process Step by Step
• Benefits of 80G Registration
• 80G Registration Renewal: Process and Validity
• How to Cancel or Surrender 80G Registration

Frequently Asked Questions

What is 80G Registration and who issues it?

80G Registration is issued by the Income Tax Department (Commissioner of Income Tax / Exemptions), via the e-filing portal under the Section 80G of the Income-tax Act, 1961. NGOs, trusts and Section 8 companies that want to offer donors a tax deduction on their contributions.

What documents are required for 80G Registration?

Key documents include: Valid 12A / 12AB registration certificate (mandatory prerequisite); Trust deed / society or Section 8 incorporation documents and MOA; PAN of the organisation; Registered-office address proof.

What are the fees for 80G Registration?

There is no government fee for filing Form 10A/10AB for 80G approval. Professional assistance typically costs ₹4,000 – ₹15,000 (professional fee; often bundled with 12A filing at a combined rate).

How long does 80G Registration take and how long is it valid?

Provisional approval typically within 15–30 days of a complete application. Provisional 80G is valid for 3 years; regular approval is valid for 5 years and is renewable.

What happens if I don't get 80G Registration?

Issuing 80G receipts without valid approval is a serious compliance breach that can trigger cancellation of both 80G and 12A and denial of exemption. Donors' claimed deductions may also be disallowed.