Trust Registration - Create a Legacy

A Trust is a legal entity created by one party (the settlor) to transfer property or assets to another party (the trustee), to be managed for the benefit of a third party (the beneficiaries). Trusts in India can be public (charitable or religious) or private (family, estate management, etc.) and are governed by the Indian Trusts Act, 1882 (for private trusts) and state-specific Public Trust Acts (for public trusts).

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Trust Registration In 4 Easy Steps

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Fill up the forms

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Submit Documents

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Make the Payment

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Registration Done

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What is included in Trust Registration package?

Benefits of Trust Registration

Legal recognition

Tax Exemptions

Access to gov schemes

Asset protection

Categories of Trusts in India

A Trust is a legal entity created by one party (the settlor) to transfer property or assets to another party (the trustee), to be managed for the benefit of a third party (the beneficiaries). Trusts in India can be public (charitable or religious) or private (family, estate management, etc.) and are governed by the Indian Trusts Act, 1882 (for private trusts) and state-specific Public Trust Acts (for public trusts).

Public Charitable Trust

For social or religious purposes

Public Religious Trust

For managing temples or places of worship

Private Trust

For managing family wealth, or inheritance

Parties Involved in Trust Registration

Trustor

The trustor is the individual who initiates the establishment of the trust. Typically, they are the proprietor of the assets or property being placed into the trust.

Trustee

The trustee is an individual or entity entrusted with the responsibility of managing and overseeing the trust. They hold and administer the trust.

Beneficiary

The beneficiary is the person for whom the trust is established. They are the designated recipient of the benefits, assets, or property held within the trust.

Documents required for Trust Registration

Trust Deed

A Trust Deed with the appropriate stamp value

PAN Cards

PAN cards of the individuals associated with the trust.

Photograph

Two photographs of each party involved in the trust.

Address Proof

Address proof of the individuals involved.

Identity Proof

Identity proof of the individuals participating in the trust

Authentication

Authentication from partners, if applicable

NOC

No Objection Certificate for using the premises, if applicable

Utility Bill

Any form of a utility bill serving as proof of address

Tax Certificate

12A Registration and 80G Certificates issued by the respective income tax authorities

Business Address

Registered office proof of the business address

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Checklist for Trust Registration in India

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it mandatory to register a trust in India?

Registration is mandatory for public trusts in most states and is strongly recommended for private trusts to ensure legal protection and recognition.

What is a Trust Deed?

A Trust Deed is a legal document that outlines the objectives, rules, and operations of the trust, including details of the settlor, trustees, beneficiaries, and the trust’s property.

How many trustees are required to register a trust?

A minimum of two trustees is generally required, though this may vary based on the trust’s objectives and state laws.

What is 12A and 80G registration?

These are Income Tax exemptions under the Income Tax Act, 1961.

  • 12A exempts the trust’s income from tax.

  • 80G allows donors to claim tax deductions on their donations.

Can a trust own property in India?

Yes. A registered trust can hold and manage movable or immovable property in its name.

How long does it take to register a trust with Smoothrun?

It usually takes 10–15 working days for trust registration, and additional time for 12A/80G certification.

Can a family set up a private trust for succession planning?

Absolutely. A private trust is a popular and legally secure way to manage family assets, estates, and succession across generations.

Is trust registration valid across India?

Yes. Once registered, a trust is recognized across India. However, the procedure may vary slightly depending on the state.

Can NRIs or foreigners be trustees?

Yes, NRIs can be trustees of a trust in India, provided they comply with Indian laws and provide necessary identity/residency proofs.

Why choose Smoothrun for trust registration?

With a deep understanding of legal, tax, and regulatory requirements, our CA-led team ensures accurate documentation, quick registration, and complete support for future compliance.

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