05 February 2013
Dear All, I want to form a Trust with its basic objective to help old age people and children education and others. I want to know the procedure of its formation. Whether I have to apply for the name first and so then how? Please guide me.
09 February 2013
Sir, How would we start a trust? Is it necessary to donate firstly? What are books or cetificate or other documents etc has to be maintained?
10 August 2024
Forming a trust involves several steps and legal requirements. Here’s a detailed procedure for forming a trust, especially if your objective is to help old-age people and children with education and other causes:
### **1. Determine the Type of Trust**
- **Public Trust:** For charitable or public purposes like helping old-age people and education. - **Private Trust:** For private purposes or family-related issues (not applicable in this case but good to know).
### **2. Drafting the Trust Deed**
The **Trust Deed** is the foundational document of the trust. It includes the following details:
1. **Name of the Trust:** The trust needs a unique name. It’s advisable to check the availability of the name to avoid conflicts. 2. **Trustees:** Names and details of the individuals who will manage the trust. 3. **Beneficiaries:** Details of the individuals or groups who will benefit from the trust. 4. **Objectives:** Clear statement of the objectives and purpose of the trust. 5. **Property/Assets:** Description of the property or assets that will be transferred to the trust. 6. **Powers and Duties:** The powers and responsibilities of the trustees. 7. **Duration:** If applicable, specify whether it’s a perpetual trust or for a defined period. 8. **Governing Law:** The laws under which the trust will operate.
### **3. Registration of the Trust**
- **Draft the Trust Deed:** Prepare a detailed Trust Deed as per the requirements. - **Stamp Duty:** Pay the applicable stamp duty on the Trust Deed as per state laws. - **Register the Deed:** Submit the Trust Deed for registration to the local Sub-Registrar or Registrar of Trusts.
### **4. Obtain a PAN Card for the Trust**
- **Application:** Apply for a Permanent Account Number (PAN) for the trust by filing Form 49A with the Income Tax Department.
### **5. Open a Bank Account**
- **Trust Account:** Open a bank account in the name of the trust. You will need to provide a copy of the Trust Deed, PAN, and registration certificate.
### **6. Tax Registration**
- **Income Tax Exemption:** Apply for exemption under Section 12A/12AA of the Income Tax Act for tax exemptions on income received by the trust. - **GST Registration:** If applicable, register for Goods and Services Tax (GST) if the trust engages in activities that require GST registration.
### **7. Compliance and Maintenance**
- **Books of Accounts:** Maintain proper books of accounts as required by law. This includes records of all transactions, donations, expenses, and income. - **Annual Return:** File annual returns with the relevant authorities, including income tax returns and any other statutory filings. - **Audits:** Regular audits may be required based on the size and scope of the trust.
### **8. Donation and Fundraising**
- **Initial Donation:** It’s not mandatory to make an initial donation to start a trust, but having a seed fund or initial corpus helps in operationalizing the trust. - **Fundraising:** If required, undertake fundraising activities in compliance with regulations.
### **9. Documents and Certificates**
- **Trust Deed:** The primary document. - **PAN Card:** For tax purposes. - **Registration Certificate:** Proof of registration with the local authority. - **Bank Account Statement:** For the trust’s financial transactions. - **Books of Accounts:** Ledger, journal, and other accounting records.
### **10. Additional Considerations**
- **Legal Compliance:** Ensure compliance with various laws and regulations governing trusts. - **Legal Advice:** Consider consulting a legal expert specializing in trusts for detailed guidance and to ensure that all legal requirements are met.
### **Checklist for Forming a Trust**
1. **Draft the Trust Deed** 2. **Pay Stamp Duty** 3. **Register the Trust** 4. **Obtain PAN Card** 5. **Open a Bank Account** 6. **Apply for Tax Exemptions** 7. **Maintain Books of Accounts** 8. **File Annual Returns and Comply with Regulations** 9. **Initial Donation (Optional but Recommended)** 10. **Ensure Compliance and Seek Legal Advice**
By following these steps, you can establish a trust effectively and ensure it operates within the legal framework. If you have specific questions or need further assistance, consulting with a legal advisor or trust specialist can provide tailored guidance.