How to Register a Section 8 Company in Maharashtra (2026) – Step-by-Step Guide

If you are planning to start an NGO or a non-profit organization in Maharashtra, the term Section 8 Company may sound confusing at first. Many people are unsure whether it is a trust, a society, or a private company. In simple words, a Section 8 company is a non-profit company registered under the Companies Act, created to work for social, educational, or charitable causes.

This guide is written to make things easy for you. It explains what a Section 8 company means, why many NGOs prefer this structure, and how you can register a Section 8 company in Maharashtra in 2026, step by step, using clear and simple language.

What Is a Section 8 Company?

A Section 8 company is a type of company formed for charitable or non-profit purposes, such as:

• Education
• Healthcare
• Social welfare
• Environmental protection
• Skill development
• Research
• Charity or public benefit activities

The main rule is simple:
👉 Any profit earned cannot be distributed to members.
👉 All income must be used for the company’s objective.

That is why Section 8 companies are trusted by donors, government bodies, and CSR contributon.

What Does “Section 8 Company” Mean?

In simple words, Section 8 company means:

➤ A legally registered NGO

➤ Governed by the Companies Act, 2013

➤ Works for social or charitable purposes

➤ Has higher credibility than trusts or societies

This structure is commonly used by NGOs working at a national or international level.

Benefits of Section 8 Company

➡️ High credibility and legal recognition

➡️ Eligible for CSR funding

➡️ Eligible for 12A and 80G registration

➡️ Better trust among donors and institutions

➡️ No minimum capital requirement

Why Register a Section 8 Company in Maharashtra?

Maharashtra is one of the most preferred states for NGO registration because:

➜ Strong CSR ecosystem (Mumbai, Pune, Nagpur)

➜ Easy access to corporate donors

➜ Presence of government and international funding agencies

➜ Well-established ROC offices

Cities like Mumbai, Pune, Thane, Navi Mumbai, Nashik, and Nagpur have a high number of active Section 8 companies.

Who Can Apply for Section 8 Company Registration?

You can apply if:

▪ You are an Indian citizen

▪ Minimum 2 directors (for private company)

▪ Minimum 2 members

▪ Directors are 18 years or older

▪ No criminal background related to fraud or financial misconduct

NRIs and foreign nationals can also become directors with proper documentation.

Step-by-Step Process to Register a Section 8 Company in Maharashtra

Step 1: Decide the Purpose of the Section 8 Company

First, clearly define why you are forming the company.
Examples:

• Education for underprivileged children
• Women empowerment
• Environmental protection
• Health awareness programs

This objective will be mentioned in your MOA (Memorandum of Association).

Step 2: Obtain DSC (Digital Signature Certificate)

All directors must have a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) because the entire registration process is online.

Documents required:

• Aadhaar card
• PAN card
• Photo
• Email & mobile number

Step 3: Apply for DIN (Director Identification Number)

• DIN is a unique number issued to directors by the MCA (Ministry of Corporate Affairs).
• DIN is usually applied along with the company incorporation form.

Step 4: Name Approval for Section 8 Company

You must apply for name approval through the MCA portal.
The name should reflect non-profit activity and should not look commercial.

Examples:

Foundation

• Association
• Council
• Forum
• Initiative

The name must include words like Foundation / Association / Council, not “Private Limited”.

Step 5: Draft MOA and AOA (Most Important Step)

This is the heart of Section 8 registration.

• MOA explains the objectives and activities
• AOA defines internal rules and governance

The language must strictly follow Section 8 company rules, otherwise approval may be rejected.

Step 6: Apply for Section 8 License (Form INC-12)

After drafting documents, an application is made to the Central Government for granting a Section 8 license.

Documents submitted include:

MOA & AOA

• Declaration by directors
• Financial projections
• Purpose statement

Once approved, the company is legally recognized as a Section 8 company.

Step 7: Company Incorporation (SPICe+ Form)

After license approval, the company is incorporated with:

• PAN
• TAN
• Certificate of Incorporation

Your Section 8 company is now officially registered in Maharashtra.

Section 8 Company Registration Cost in Maharashtra

The Section 8 company registration cost depends on:

– Number of directors

– Professional fees

– Documentation complexity

Government fees are lower compared to normal companies because Section 8 companies are non-profit in nature.

Time Required for Registration

On average:

20 to 30 working days

Time may increase if documents need corrections or approvals get delayed

Section 8 Company Act – Key Rule to Remember

Under the Section 8 company act, remember:

🗸 No dividend distribution

🗸 Income must be used for objectives

🗸 Annual compliance is mandatory

Common Mistakes to Avoid

⚠ Vague objectives in MOA

⚠ Using commercial language in name

⚠ Poor documentation

⚠ Not planning future compliance

⚠ These mistakes often lead to delays or rejection.

Planning to register a Section 8 Company in Maharashtra?
Get clear, step-by-step help from PSR Compliance. 📞 Call 7065883416 and start your NGO journey the right way.

FAQs on Section 8 Company

Q. How many directors and members are required for a Section 8 company?
A minimum of two directors and two members is required, and they can be the same individuals.

Q. Is there any minimum capital requirement to start a Section 8 company?
No, there is no minimum capital requirement for registering a Section 8 company.

Q. Can foreign nationals become directors in a Section 8 company?
Yes, foreign nationals can be directors, provided at least one director is a resident of India.

Q. What naming conventions must a Section 8 company follow?
The company name must include terms such as Foundation, Association, Society, Council, or Institute.

Q. Are Section 8 companies eligible for tax exemptions?
Yes, Section 8 companies can apply for income tax exemptions under Sections 12A and 80G.

Q. What is the registration process for a Section 8 company?
Registration requires a special license from the Central Government or RoC, along with MoA and AoA drafting.

Q. Can a Section 8 company distribute profits to its members?
No, profits cannot be distributed as dividends and must be used solely for charitable objectives.

Q. Can a trust or society be converted into a Section 8 company?
Yes, an existing trust or society can be converted into a Section 8 company.