If you are planning to start an NGO or already running one, obtaining 12A and 80G certificates is one of the most important steps for smooth operations and long-term sustainability. These certifications not only offer tax benefits but also increase donor trust, making fundraising easier. One of the most common questions NGO founders ask is: What is the fees for 12A 80G certificate?

In this detailed guide, we will explain the complete cost structure, process, government fees, documentation, professional charges, and hidden costs related to 12A and 80G registration in India.

What Are 12A and 80G Certificates?

Before understanding the fee structure, it is important to know what these certificates mean:

12A Certificate

12A registration allows NGOs, Section 8 companies, and trusts to claim income tax exemption on their surplus funds. Without 12A, your NGO will be treated like a business entity for tax purposes.

80G Certificate

80G registration allows donors to claim 50% tax deduction on the donations they give to your NGO. It helps NGOs build credibility and attract long-term supporters.

Both registrations are issued by the Income Tax Department of India through an online process.

What is the Fees for 12A 80G Certificate?

The fee for obtaining 12A and 80G registration depends on two major components:

1. Government Fees

2. Professional or Consultant Fees

Let’s break down each part.

1. Government Fees for 12A and 80G Registration

The Income Tax Department does not charge any government fee for 12A or 80G registration.

Yes, the filing of Form 10A (for fresh registration) and Form 10AB (for renewal) on the Income Tax portal is completely free of cost.

Government Fee Summary

So, the government does not charge anything from NGOs for these certifications. However, the NGO may incur other expenses related to documentation, drafting, and professional support.

2. Professional Fees for 12A and 80G Registration

Even though the government fee is zero, many NGOs hire professionals or consultants for smooth filing because the process involves:

• Preparing a detailed financial estimate

• Drafting legal documents

• Uploading proper records

• Responding to queries by the Income Tax Department

• Ensuring compliance with post-registration requirements

Professional charges depend on your consultant, location, type of NGO, and complexity of documents.

Average Professional Fees for 12A 80G Certificate in India (2025)

These charges may include:

• Documentation drafting

• Digital signature updates

• Preparation of activity reports

• Form filing (10A/10AB)

• Clarification replies to the Income Tax Department

Some experienced consultants might charge more if your NGO requires additional compliance support.

3. Hidden Costs You Should Consider

While the government fee is zero, NGOs sometimes face other indirect costs. These are not mandatory fees but necessary expenses depending on your NGO’s stage:

a) NGO Registration Cost

If your NGO is new, you first need to register as:

• Trust

• Society

• Section 8 Company

This may cost anywhere from ₹5,000 to ₹35,000 depending on the structure.

b) Activity Reports / Vision Document Preparation

NGOs must submit:

• Activity report

• Budget for upcoming three years

• Project details

If these are prepared by a consultant, it may cost between ₹1,000 and ₹5,000.

c) Accounting & Audit Fees

You must have:

• Updated accounts

• Income & expenditure statements

• Receipts & payments

• Balance sheets

If your NGO does not have audited accounts, you may incur additional expenses ranging from ₹3,000 to ₹15,000.

d) Maintaining Office & Utility Documents

You may need:

• Rent agreement

• Electricity bill

• Ownership proof

• Letter of authorization

Sometimes, small administrative costs arise in preparing these documents.

These are not direct charges for 12A or 80G certification but part of the preparation process.

Why Do NGOs Need 12A and 80G Certificates?

These certifications come with several long-term advantages:

1. Tax Exemption for NGO

With 12A, your NGO doesn’t pay tax on donations, grants, or surplus income.

2. Tax Savings for Donors

80G makes your NGO more attractive to donors because they get a 50% tax deduction.

3. Higher Credibility

CSR companies and international agencies prefer NGOs with 12A & 80G.

4. Eligibility for Government Funding

Many ministries and state departments require these certificates for grant applications.

5. Smooth Financial Operations

It simplifies compliance and financial planning for NGOs.

Step-by-Step Process for 12A and 80G Registration

Understanding the process helps NGOs know why professional assistance might be required.

Step 1: Prepare Required Documents

You need:

• Trust deed / Society registration certificate / Section 8 COI

• PAN of NGO

• PAN & Aadhaar of key members

• Bank account details

• Address proof of NGO

• Activity report

• Financial documents

• Details of trustees

• Digital signature (DSC)

Step 2: Login to Income Tax Portal

Using your NGO’s PAN and password.

Step 3: Fill Form 10A

Used for fresh registration of 12A and 80G.

Step 4: Upload Supporting Documents

Ensure PDF size and format match rules.

Step 5: Submit Application

Portal generates acknowledgment.

Step 6: Respond to Queries

Assessing officer may request clarification or additional documents.

Step 7: Certificate Approval

You will receive both certificates digitally on the portal.

How Long Does 12A and 80G Registration Take?

The usual processing time range is:

Processing Time

If queries arise, it may take slightly longer.

Documents Required for 12A & 80G Registration

Here is the consolidated list:

• Registration certificate (Trust/Society/Section 8)

• PAN of NGO

• PAN & Aadhaar of trustees/directors

• Financial statements

• Bank statement

• Rent agreement or address proof

• NOC from property owner

• Activity details and past activities

• Three-year projected budget

• Digital signature

Having complete and accurate documents reduces delays.

Common Reasons for Rejection & Additional Costs

Some NGOs face rejections because of:

• Improperly drafted trust deed

• Incomplete board details

• Incorrect financial documents

• Lack of clarity in activities

• Missing office address proof

• No past activities

If documents require correction or revision, consultants may charge additional fees.

Final Summary: What is the Fees for 12A 80G Certificate?

Here is the simplified breakdown:

• Government Fee : ₹0

• Professional Fee : ₹10,000 to ₹30,000

• Additional Expenses (if needed): ₹3,000 to ₹20,000

So the total cost for 12A & 80G registration may range from ₹10,000 to ₹35,000, depending on your documentation, structure of NGO, and consultant you choose.

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Conclusion

Getting a 12A and 80G certificate is essential for every NGO that wants to grow, raise funds, and operate with tax benefits. While the government fee is absolutely free, NGOs generally invest in professional support to ensure error-free documentation and proper compliance.

The important part is choosing a consultant who understands NGO law, documentation, and the Income Tax portal filing process. This ensures that your NGO gets approval smoothly without delays.