Charity Trust Registration: Complete Guide for 2025

If you’re wondering how to open a charitable trust, you’re in the right place. Getting charity trust registration means your organisation becomes a legal entity that can help people, attract donations, and access benefits. This blog will walk you through everything from charitable trust registration fees and legal structures to the role of the assistant charity commissioner and government grants for charitable trust.

What is Charity Trust Registration?

Charitable trust registration is the process by which you legally register your trust under the relevant law, so it becomes recognised. When you search for how to register a charitable trust, you're giving your trust a proper identity: a name, trustees, office address, trust deed, and registration certificate. Registration often happens at the charity commissioner office or the state’s trust registrar.

Benefits of Charity Trust Registration

Legal recognition and credibility
Access to government grants for charitable trust
Eligibility for tax exemptions
Ability to receive local and foreign donations
Opportunity to apply for NGO registration online
Helpful in fundraising and collaborations

Requirements for Registering a Charitable Trust

Minimum of two trustees
A registered office address
Properly drafted trust deed
Defined charitable objectives
Payment of charitable trust registration fees
Supporting ID and address proof of trustees

Legal Structure Options for Charitable Trusts

Public Charitable Trust – Serves the public at large (education, health, relief).
Private Trust – Serves a closed group (e.g., family).
You can also proceed with foundation registration process or NGO registration online, based on your expansion plans.

Documents Required for Registering a Charitable Trust

Trust deed on stamp paper
PAN of trustees
ID and address proof of trustees
Registered office address proof
Consent letter from property owner (if rented office)
Passport-size photos of trustees
Application form

Process of Registering a Charitable Trust

Choose a unique name for the trust
Draft a trust deed with objectives, trustee roles, and structure
Choose minimum two trustees
Obtain a registered office and gather ID/address documents
Submit documents at the Assistant Charity Commissioner or state registrar’s office
Pay registration fees and submit the application
On approval, get the registration certificate
Apply for PAN and open a bank account
Apply for 12A and 80G tax exemption
Start operations and apply for government grants for charitable trust

Why Choose Startupflora for Charity Trust Registration?

Step-by-step guidance from experts
Accurate trust deed drafting
Fast processing at charity commissioner office
Affordable and transparent fees
Help with how to open charity trust in India
Assistance in applying for tax exemptions and future compliance
Full support with NGO registration online

(FAQs)

Q1. What is the first step to register a charitable trust?
A: Drafting a trust deed with clear objectives and selecting trustees.

Q2. How much are the charitable trust registration fees?
A: Fees vary by state but are generally low and include stamp duty and filing charges.

Q3. Who is the Assistant Charity Commissioner?
A: The official who oversees and approves charitable trust registrations in the state.

Q4. Can I register a charitable trust online?
A: Some processes can be initiated online, but physical submission at the charity commissioner office is usually required.

Q5. How many trustees are required?
A: At least two or three trustees are required depending on state rules.

Q6. Can a charitable trust apply for government funding?
A: Yes, after registration and tax exemptions, trusts can apply for government grants for charitable trust.

Q7. What’s the difference between a charitable trust and an NGO?
A: A charitable trust is a legal structure; an NGO can be a trust, society, or non-profit company.

Q8. Is it mandatory to have a registered office address?
A: Yes, a registered office address in India is mandatory for registration.