Managing compliance is crucial for Section 8 Companies to ensure smooth operations, avoid penalties, and maintain credibility with donors and regulatory bodies. Section 8 Companies are required to comply with various legal, tax, and financial regulations annually. 

Why is Compliance Important? 

  • Legal Obligation – Ensures adherence to the Companies Act, 2013. 
  • Tax Benefits – Required to maintain 12A & 80G tax exemptions. 
  • Avoid Penalties – Prevents fines and legal actions due to non-compliance. 
  • Enhanced Credibility – Builds trust with donors, CSR funders, and the government. 
  • Smooth Operations – Ensures hassle-free financial transactions and banking processes. 

Process Steps for SECTION -8 COMPLIANCE

1. Initial Compliance After Incorporation
  • INC-20A (Declaration of Commencement of Business) – Must be filed within 6 months of incorporation, failure to do so leads to a penalty of ₹50,000 for the company and ₹1,000 per day for directors.
  • ADT-1 (Appointment of Auditor) – Must be filed within 30 days of incorporation, failure to comply results in a penalty of ₹300 per month.
2. Annual ROC Filings with MCA
  • AOC-4 (Financial Statements Filing) – Failure to file attracts a penalty of ₹100 per day.
  • MGT-7 (Annual Return Filing) – Non-compliance results in a penalty of ₹100 per day.
  • Board Resolutions & AGM Compliance – Proper records must be maintained.
3. Income Tax Filings & Exemptions
  • ITR-6 Filing – Mandatory for NGOs, failure results in tax liabilities.
  • 12A & 80G Renewal – Required for continued tax exemption.
  • Tax Audit (if applicable) – Mandatory if turnover exceeds the prescribed limit.
  • Form 10B – Mandatory tax audit report submission.
  • Form 10BD – Details of donors to be submitted before 31st May every year.
  • Form 10BE – Issued to donors as proof of donation for tax benefits.

Most NGOs miss these crucial filings, but Rapid Startup ensures complete compliance!

4. CSR & Grant Compliance
  • CSR-1 Filing – Required for receiving CSR funding.
  • Utilization Certificate (UC) – To report fund usage to grant authorities.
  • FCRA Compliance (if applicable) – For NGOs receiving foreign contributions.
5. GST & Accounting Compliance
  • GST Registration & Returns – If applicable (turnover above ₹20 lakh).
  • TDS Compliance – Deduction & filing of TDS returns.
  • Bookkeeping & Audited Financial Statements – Proper accounting practices.

Documents Required

MOA, AOA & Certificate of Incorporation

PAN & TAN of the NGO

Bank Statements & Financial Records

Audit Reports & Donation Receipts

Board Resolutions & AGM Minutes

TDS & GST Returns (if applicable)