In India, many trusts are registered either for charitable purposes (like education, healthcare, etc.) or for family purposes (like family property management). Every registered trust is assigned a Trust Registration Number, which serves as its official identification. This number helps prove that the trust is legal and recognized by the government.
Sometimes, you may need to check the trust registration number—maybe because you’re planning to donate, you need the number for legal paperwork, or you just want to confirm if the trust is genuine.
Let’s learn how you can check a trust registration number online easily.
What is a Trust Registration Number?
A Trust Registration Number is a unique number given to a trust by the government when it gets registered.
- For public trusts (charities), this number is given by the Charity Commission.
- For private trusts (like family trusts), it’s registered at the Sub-Registrar’s Office.
This number shows:
- The trust is legally registered.
- It’s recognized by the government.
- It’s eligible for tax benefits and other official matters.
Steps to Check the Trust Registration Number
Different states in India offer different ways to check the trust registration number online. Let’s look at a few common methods.
1. Check on the Charity Commissioner Website (for public trusts)
In some states like Maharashtra, you can easily check trust details online.
Here’s how:
- Go to the Charity Commissioner’s website. For Maharashtra, visit: https://charity.maharashtra.gov.in/
- Look for “Search Public Trust” or “Trust Details.”
- Enter details like the trust’s name, district, or year of registration.
- You’ll see the trust information, including its registration number, date of registration, and address.
- State-Specific Websites
Some states like Gujarat also have websites for checking trust details.
- For Gujarat: https://www.charity.rajkot.gov.in/
Follow the same steps:
- Open the site.
- Find the “Search Trust” option.
- Enter the trust name or location.
- View the registration number and other details.
2. Income Tax Department Website (for tax-registered trusts)
If the trust is registered for tax benefits (under Section 12A or 80G), you can check it through the Income Tax Department website:
- Visit https://www.incometax.gov.in/iec/foportal/
- Look for “Exempt Organization Search.”
- Enter the trust’s PAN (if you have it) or name.
- The website will show if the trust is tax-exempt and registered, confirming its registration.
3. Contact the Local Registrar or Sub-Registrar
If the trust is a private family trust, its records might not be online.
In that case:
- Visit the local Sub-Registrar’s office where the trust was registered.
- Ask for the Trust Registration Certificate or the registration number.
- You might need to fill out a simple form or pay a small fee.
4. Ask the Trust Directly
If you are dealing with the trust for donations or legal reasons, ask them directly for:
- A copy of their Trust Registration Certificate, which has the registration number, date, and details.
- You can cross-check this number with online records or by contacting the government office.
Things to Keep in Mind
- Online information depends on the state. Some states, like Maharashtra, Gujarat, and some others, have online systems, while others may not.
- Correct details matter – Enter the trust name and other details carefully for accurate search results.
- Private trusts might not be online. For family or private trusts, you may need to visit the registrar’s office in person.
- Tax-exempt status – If the trust is claiming tax exemptions (under 12A/80G), it’s a sign they are officially registered.
Conclusion
Checking a trust registration number online can be simple if you follow the right steps. If you’re dealing with a public trust in Maharashtra, Gujarat, or another state with online records, you can search the trust’s details easily. If it’s an engagement in private trust, you may need to visit the local registrar’s office.
To know about the trust registration number helps confirm that the trust is genuine, registered and verified, giving you peace of mind whether you’re donating, doing business, or managing legal matters. Moreover, verifying the trust’s registration ensures that you are protected from fraud and misrepresentation. It also helps you to understand the trust’s legal point, particularly if you are a stakeholder or beneficiary of the trust. As more states move toward digital records, this process will continue to improve, making it faster, easier and more efficient. Staying informed, updated and conducting due diligence not only safeguards your interests but also contributes to a more transparent and trustworthy system for all.
FAQs
1. Why is it important to check a trust’s registration number?
Checking a trust’s registration number will help you to make sure the trust is legally registered, verified, and real. It protects you from scams and makes sure the government recognizes the trust. This is useful if you’re donating, doing legal work, or checking for tax benefits.
2. Can I check any trust’s registration number online?
You can check many public trusts online, especially in states like Maharashtra and Gujarat, where online records are available. However, private family trusts may not be online. In that case, you might need to visit the local office where the trust was registered.
3. What do I need to search for a trust’s registration number online?
You will need the trust’s name, the district or area, and maybe the year of registration. Enter these details correctly on the website to find the trust’s registration number.
