NGO
CSR-1 Registration
Become eligible to receive CSR funds.
Overview
Form CSR-1 registration is filed with the Ministry of Corporate Affairs so that an NGO can be recognised to receive and implement corporate social responsibility funds from companies. It is required under the Companies (Corporate Social Responsibility Policy) Rules, 2014, framed under Section 135 of the Companies Act, 2013. On successful filing, the organisation is issued a unique CSR registration number that companies use to route their CSR spending.
Objective
To register an NGO through Form CSR-1 with the Ministry of Corporate Affairs so it can receive and implement CSR funds from companies.
Characteristics
- Filed as Form CSR-1 on the MCA portal
- Required for NGOs seeking to implement CSR projects for companies
- Results in a unique CSR registration number
- Must be certified by a practising professional such as a CA, CS, or cost accountant
- Governed by the Companies CSR Policy Rules under the Companies Act, 2013
Eligibility
- A registered trust, society, or Section 8 company
- Valid 12A and 80G registration under the Income Tax Act
- An established track record, generally at least three years of activities
- PAN of the organisation and details of its governing members
- Digital signature of an authorised office bearer
Governing law
- Section 135 of the Companies Act, 2013
- Companies (Corporate Social Responsibility Policy) Rules, 2014
- Ministry of Corporate Affairs / Registrar of Companies
The process
- 1Confirm prerequisites
We verify that the organisation holds valid 12A and 80G registration and meets the track record and documentation requirements.
- 2Collect and prepare documents
Our team assembles the registration, PAN, 12A and 80G orders, and office bearer details and arranges the digital signature.
- 3Certify and file Form CSR-1
We have the form certified by a practising professional and file it on the MCA portal with the required attachments.
- 4Receive the CSR registration number
On approval, the MCA issues the unique CSR registration number, which we provide for use with corporate donors.
Documents required
- Registration certificate of the trust, society, or Section 8 company
- PAN of the organisation
- 12A and 80G registration orders
- Details of the governing body, members, or directors
- Digital signature of an authorised office bearer
- Registered office address proof
Benefits
- Eligibility to receive CSR funds from companies
- A unique CSR registration number recognised by corporate donors
- Access to a wider pool of corporate funding
- Greater credibility with companies and their CSR committees
- A compliant status under the Companies Act CSR framework
Frequently asked questions
Is 12A and 80G required before filing Form CSR-1?
Yes. An NGO generally needs valid registration under 12A and 80G of the Income Tax Act before it can register through Form CSR-1 to receive CSR funds.
Who can certify Form CSR-1?
Form CSR-1 must be digitally signed and certified by a practising professional, such as a chartered accountant, company secretary, or cost accountant.
Why does an NGO need CSR-1 registration?
Companies covered by Section 135 of the Companies Act can only route CSR funds to entities that hold a valid CSR registration number obtained through Form CSR-1. Without it, an NGO cannot formally implement CSR projects for such companies.