TRUST REGISTRATION
Register your trust with a properly drafted trust deed, obtain legal recognition and access statutory benefits. We assist from drafting to registration and post-registration compliance.
TRUST REGISTRATION
Overview
A trust registration begins with drafting a trust deed. The trust deed is the most important document which sets out the settlor, trustees, objects, property and operational clauses of the trust. Registration gives evidentiary value to the deed and helps in claiming statutory benefits where applicable.
Types of Trusts
Trusts may be public (charitable/religious) or private. Public trusts serve a larger class of beneficiaries while private trusts are for specific beneficiaries. Tax registrations such as 12A/80G may be applied for charitable trusts subject to compliance.
Key Points
- Trust deed must clearly specify objects, trustees, powers and property details.
- Registration is usually with the sub-registrar or the relevant charitable authority depending on jurisdiction.
- Post-registration steps include PAN application, opening bank accounts and compliance filings.
BENEFITS
Why register a trust?
Legal Recognition
Registration gives legal status and evidentiary value to the trust deed.
Banking & Funding
Ability to open bank accounts and receive donations/grants in the trust’s name.
Tax Benefits
Eligible trusts may apply for tax exemptions subject to conditions (eg. 12A/80G).
Structured Governance
Clear trustee roles and governance reduce disputes and improve accountability.
Documents Required
Trust Deed & supporting documents (scanned copies)
Trust Deed
Signed trust deed containing settlor, trustees, objects, property and clauses.
Identity Proofs
PAN & Aadhaar (or Passport) of settlor and trustees.
Property Proof
Title documents or possession proof of trust property (if applicable).
Declarations & NOCs
Declarations by trustees and NOC from property owner (if rented).
Photographs & Signatures
Passport size photos and specimen signatures of trustees.
Supporting Annexures
Any annexures, schedules, or asset lists referred to in the deed.
Proof of Address
Utility bills or bank statement for the registered office address.
Member/Trustee List
List of trustees with details and consent signatures.
MUST KNOW THINGS BEFORE TRUST REGISTRATION
Private vs Public Trust: Private trusts are for specific beneficiaries; public/charitable trusts serve the public and may be eligible for tax registrations on compliance.
Number of Trustees: Typically two or more trustees are recommended; check local rules for minimums.
Trust Deed Essentials: Include objects, trustee appointment/removal, powers, property description, and distribution mechanism for income/corpus.
TRUST REGISTRATION PROCESS
Selection of Name
Choose a unique name that reflects the trust’s objectives and does not infringe existing entities.
Drafting of Deed
Draft the trust deed with objects, trustees’ details, property details and operational clauses.
Registration
File the deed with the concerned registrar/sub-registrar along with documents and stamp duty.
PAN & Bank Account
Apply for PAN and open a bank account in trust name to handle funds.
FAQs on Trust Registration
Please reach us at contact@harshdeepnarula.in if you cannot find an answer to your question.
Prepare a trust deed signed by the settlor and trustees, furnish supporting documents, pay applicable stamp duty and file at the relevant registration office.
Any person or entity competent to transfer property can create a trust; charitable trusts have additional considerations depending on state rules.
Yes, trusts can hold both movable and immovable assets; ensure transfers are properly documented.
Liability depends on the deed and statutory law — trustees acting in good faith and within powers typically have limited liability.
Charitable trusts that obtain relevant tax registrations and comply with conditions may be eligible for exemptions; professional advice is recommended.
Timelines depend on registrar workload and completeness of documentation — usually a few days to a few weeks.
Need help registering your Trust?
We draft trust deeds, assist with registration, PAN/TAN and compliance so you can focus on your objectives.
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