To register a charitable trust, draft a trust deed with objects, trustees and income application rules, pay stamp duty as per state law, book an appointment with the Sub-Registrar, have the settlor and witnesses execute the deed with biometric verification, collect the registered deed, then obtain PAN, open a bank account and apply for 12A and 80G.
Step 1: Draft the deed
Cover name, objects, settlor, trustees, powers, income application and dissolution.
Step 2: Stamp duty
Pay stamp duty on the deed as per state schedule, often via e-stamping.
Step 3: Execution and registration
- Book Sub-Registrar appointment.
- Settlor, trustees as required, and two witnesses appear with IDs.
- Biometrics and photos captured; deed registered.
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Get expert help →Step 4: State public trust registration
In Maharashtra, Gujarat and some other states, also register with the Charity Commissioner.
Step 5: Tax and banking
Apply for PAN, open a bank account and file Form 10A.
Frequently asked questions
Can a trust deed be registered online?
Preparation and payment can often be done online, but parties usually appear in person for execution.
Can the settlor be a trustee?
Yes. The settlor can also be a trustee, as provided in the deed.
Is a minimum corpus required?
No statutory minimum applies in most states; a nominal initial corpus is common.
How long does trust registration take?
Registration can often be completed in a single appointment once the deed and stamp duty are ready.
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