CSR Registration
CSR Registration is the process that allows NGOs, trusts, and societies to collaborate with companies on social projects in India.
Get Free Consultation
What is CSR Registration (CSR-1) in India?
CSR Registration is the process that allows NGOs, trusts, and societies to collaborate with companies on social projects in India. It is required for these groups to receive CSR funds from companies for approved activities. The government introduced this system to ensure transparency and guarantee that CSR funds reach genuine organizations.
CSR Registration uses a special form called CSR-1, made available by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA). By filing CSR-1, organizations inform the government and companies that they are eligible to receive CSR funds. Once registered, the organization receives a unique CSR Registration Number, and only those with this number can legally participate in CSR projects and receive support from companies.
Since April 1, 2021, CSR-1 registration has been mandatory to enhance transparency and control over CSR funding. The 2025 amendment introduced even stricter rules, requiring all applicants to provide complete and up-to-date information. This ensures that only credible and compliant organizations benefit from CSR partnerships.
The main purpose of Form CSR-1 is to:
Eligibility Criteria
Type of Organization: To apply for CSR-1 registration, the organization must be one of the following: Registered Public Trusts: These are organizations legally registered under the Indian Trusts Act or specific State Trust Acts, created to manage funds for charitable purposes. Registered Societies: These organizations are formed under the Societies Registration Act, 1860, or equivalent State laws, and are typically involved in social, cultural, or charitable activities. Section 8 Companies: These are non-profit companies established under the Companies Act, 2013. They operate for promoting social welfare, education, and other charitable objectives, rather than for profit.
Experience: The group should have a history of working for social good. Most should have at least three years of experience working on similar activities. Note: If a new trust, society, or company is formed just for a company's CSR work, it does not need three years of history.
Valid Tax Registrations: The NGO must have two important registrations: 12A registration (proves it is non-profit and allows tax exemption) 80G registration (lets donors claim tax benefits)
Good Compliance: The group must stay up to date with government rules, submit reports, and keep clear records.
Proper Registration: Unregistered groups, informal clubs, or individuals cannot get CSR-1 registration at all.
Registered Public Trusts: These are organizations legally registered under the Indian Trusts Act or specific State Trust Acts, created to manage funds for charitable purposes.
Registered Societies: These organizations are formed under the Societies Registration Act, 1860, or equivalent State laws, and are typically involved in social, cultural, or charitable activities.
Section 8 Companies: These are non-profit companies established under the Companies Act, 2013. They operate for promoting social welfare, education, and other charitable objectives, rather than for profit.
Note: If a new trust, society, or company is formed just for a company's CSR work, it does not need three years of history.
12A registration (proves it is non-profit and allows tax exemption)
80G registration (lets donors claim tax benefits)
Documents Required
Registration Process
Go to the MCA Portal
Visit the official MCA website (mca.gov.in). Log in to your account with your user credentials.
Navigate to CSR-1 Web Form
Go to MCA Services > CSR > File CSR-1 Form under the NGO registration section.
Enter Your Organization's Details
Fill in your organization's key information: Name of the entity Type (Section 8 company, trust, or society) Registration number and date Permanent Account Number (PAN) Address and contact details
Provide Key Member Information
Enter the PAN or DIN (Director Identification Number) of the director, trustee, secretary, or the person who manages your NGO.
State the Purpose
From a dropdown menu, choose the main reason you are filing the form. If your reason is not listed, select "Others" and provide a description.
Step 6
Declaration and Designation Choose your role (like Director, Trustee, or Secretary) from the list. If a Director signs the form, type in their approved DIN. If it's a Manager, add either DIN or a valid PAN. For a Company Secretary, the membership number is required. Add a digital signature with a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC).
Step 7
Upload Required Documents Click the "Attach" button to upload all necessary documents (registration certificate, PAN, board resolution, etc.). All files should be clear and in PDF format.
Submit the Form
After entering all details, signing digitally, and attaching documents, submit the form on the portal.
Get Your SRN (Service Request Number)
When you submit the form, the system gives you an SRN instantly. Save this number, it helps you track your application's status in future communications with the MCA.
Download the Challan
A challan, or receipt, is generated after successful submission. This shows the fee details and acts as proof of filing. Download and save it for your records.
Acknowledgement and CSR Registration Number
Once the authorities process your Form CSR-1, they will send an acknowledgement to your registered email address. If your application is approved, you'll receive a unique CSR Registration Number, confirming your eligibility to undertake CSR activities.
Fees & Charges
| Fee Component | Amount |
|---|---|
| If you need a new DSC, you must first buy a DSC, which costs about ₹1,200 to ₹2,000. Add this to the filing fee, and the total comes to around ₹3,699 to ₹4,999. | Refer to schedule |
| Other service providers | Some private platforms may charge higher rates, especially if they handle more steps, but the government fee remains within this range. |
Key Advantages
Direct Access to CSR Funds
Only NGOs with CSR-1 registration can receive money from companies for their social and community projects.
Trusted by Companies
Registration shows that the NGO is genuine and meets government rules. Companies feel safe working with these NGOs because the government checks their background.
More Project Opportunities
Many big companies prefer to support only registered NGOs when choosing partners for CSR activities. This means registered NGOs have more chances to get new projects and funding.
Better Transparency
Registration ensures clear accountability regarding the allocation and utilization of funds. Both companies and the public can trust that their funds are helping real causes.
Enhanced Public Image
Being registered helps build a strong reputation. People, donors, and other groups see the NGO as reliable and professional.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Choose Us?
Expert Professionals Team
Qualified Chartered Accountants and Company Secretaries handle your filing.
Fast Processing
Quick turnaround with dedicated support at every step.
Transparent Pricing
No hidden charges. Know exactly what you pay for.
100% Data Security
Your documents and data are encrypted and confidential.
Trusted by Thousands
Thousands of businesses registered successfully.
24/7 Support
Dedicated relationship manager and customer support.