register a Section 8 company built for impact.

What is a Section 8 company?

A Section 8 Company is a non-profit entity registered under the Companies Act, 2013, formed to promote objects like education, charity, religion, art, science, sports, social welfare, or environmental protection. It has limited liability and a separate legal identity, and any profit or income must be applied only toward its stated objects — it cannot be distributed to members as dividend.

How is a Section 8 company different from a Trust or Society?

A Section 8 Company is registered with the Ministry of Corporate Affairs under company law, which generally gives it more structured governance and wider credibility with donors, CSR funders, and grant-making bodies than a Trust (registered under state Trust Acts) or a Society (registered under the Societies Registration Act). It also requires a license from the Registrar of Companies, which a Trust or Society does not.

Does registering a Section 8 company automatically give tax exemption?

No. Section 8 incorporation and tax exemption are two separate steps. Once incorporated, an organisation can separately apply for 12A registration (income tax exemption) and 80G registration (so donors can claim a tax deduction) under the Income Tax Act. Our Section 8 registration service covers the incorporation itself; 12A/80G is a distinct follow-on filing.

Can a Section 8 company distribute profits to its members?

No. Any income or profit must be applied only toward promoting the company's charitable or non-profit objects. Members cannot receive dividends, which is the core distinction between a Section 8 company and a for-profit structure like a Private Limited company.

How much does Section 8 company registration cost?

Shunya's professional fee is ₹1,999. Government fees, the DSC issuer's charge and other third-party costs are billed separately. Share your organisation's objects with us and a CA will walk you through the full cost on your first call.

How long does Section 8 company registration take?

It typically takes longer than a standard Private Limited registration because the Registrar of Companies reviews the license application and objects clause before approving incorporation. Your CA will give you a realistic timeline once your objects and documents are reviewed.