Association Registration in Chennai
Are you looking to start an association in Chennai? Or are you already running an association and need to get it registered? Whatever your situation may be, registering your association is a crucial step that you need to take in order to operate legally in Chennai.
In this ultimate guide, we will take you through the process of association registration in Chennai, step by step. From the types of associations that can be registered to the documents required and the fees involved, we will cover everything you need to know to successfully register your association in Chennai.
So, let’s dive in and explore the world of association registration in Chennai!
What is Association Registration?
Before we dive into the specifics of association registration in Chennai, let’s first understand what association registration is.
Association registration is the process of legally recognizing a group of individuals who come together for a common purpose. This group could be a non-profit organization, a trade association, a social club, or any other type of group.
By registering your association, you are giving it legal recognition and making it a separate legal entity from its members. This means that your association can enter into contracts, own property, sue and be sued in its own name, and more.
In Chennai, association registration is governed by the Tamil Nadu Societies Registration Act, 1975.
Types of Associations that can be Registered
In Chennai, there are several types of associations that can be registered under the Tamil Nadu Societies Registration Act, 1975. These include:
1. Charitable societies
2. Educational societies
3. Literary and scientific societies
4. Religious societies
5. Sports societies
6. Social welfare societies
7. Flat owners welfare societies
8. Trade unions
9. Political parties (under the Representation of the People Act, 1951)
It is important to note that only non-profit associations can be registered under the Tamil Nadu Societies Registration Act, 1975. If your association is for profit, you will need to register it as a company under the Companies Act, 2013.
Documents Required for Association Registration in Chennai
To register your association in Chennai, you will need to submit several documents. These include:
1. Memorandum of Association (MOA): This document outlines the objectives, rules, and regulations of your association.
2. Articles of Association (AOA): This document outlines the internal management structure and procedures of your association.
3. Form I: This form contains basic information about your association, such as its name, address, and objectives.
4. Form II: This form contains the names, addresses, and occupations of the members of your association’s governing body.
5. Form III: This form contains the names and addresses of the individuals who will act as your association’s first governing body.
In addition to these documents, you will also need to provide proof of address for your association’s registered office, such as a rental agreement or property tax receipt.
Process of Association Registration in Chennai
Now that you know the types of associations that can be registered and the documents required, let’s take a look at the process of association registration in Chennai.
Step 1: Choose a Name for Your Association
The first step in registering your association is to choose a name for it. The name should be unique and not already in use by another association. It should also reflect the objectives of your association.
Step 2: Draft the Memorandum and Articles of Association
Once you have chosen a name for your association, the next step is to draft the Memorandum and Articles of Association. These documents should be drafted carefully, as they will govern the functioning of your association.
Step 3: Get the Documents Notarized
Once you have drafted the Memorandum and Articles of Association, you will need to get them notarized by a notary public. This will require you to sign the documents in the presence of the notary public, who will then stamp and sign them.
Step 4: Submit the Documents to the Registrar of Societies
After getting the documents notarized, you will need to submit them to the Registrar of Societies in Chennai. Along with the documents, you will also need to pay the registration fee and any other applicable fees.
Step 5: Wait for Approval
Once you have submitted the documents, the Registrar of Societies will review them and may request any additional information or documents. If everything is in order, your association will be registered and you will receive a certificate of registration.
Step 6: Obtain PAN for the Association and open bank account
Once registration is approved, apply for PAN for the association with Certificate of Registration as a proof and then open an bank account in the name of the Association. Also create an account in the income tax portal.
Fees Involved in Association Registration in Chennai
The fees involved in association registration in Chennai depend on the type of association being registered and the fees set by the government. Generally, the fees range from a few hundred rupees to a few thousand rupees.
In addition to the registration fee, you may also need to pay fees for getting the documents notarized, certified copies of the documents, and any other services required.
Benefits of Association Registration
Registering your association in Chennai offers several benefits, including:
Legal recognition as a separate entity from its members
Ability to enter into contracts, own property, and sue and be sued in its own name
Access to funding and grants from government and non-government organizations
Increased credibility and legitimacy
Protection of the association’s name and objectives
Conclusion
Registering your association in Chennai is a crucial step in operating legally and achieving your objectives. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can successfully register your association and enjoy the benefits of legal recognition.
Remember to carefully draft your Memorandum and Articles of Association, get them notarized, and submit all required documents and fees to the Registrar of Societies.
