FAQs for a Section 8 Non-Profit Company

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for a Section 8 Non-Profit Company

• What is a Section 8 Company?
  • A Section 8 Company is a legal entity established for the promotion of non-profit objectives such as commerce, art, science, sports, education, research, social welfare, religion, charity, and environmental protection. It operates similarly to a private limited company but without the intent to profit shareholders.
• How does a Section 8 Company differ from a Trust or Society?
  • Unlike trusts or societies that are governed by specific state laws, a Section 8 Company is registered under the Companies Act, 2013, which provides it with a more robust legal structure and greater flexibility in terms of management and fundraising capabilities.
• What are the tax benefits available to a Section 8 Company?
  • Section 8 Companies are eligible for tax exemptions under Sections 12AA and 80G of the Income Tax Act, allowing them to receive tax-deductible donations which can be an attractive incentive for donors.
• Can a Section 8 Company distribute profits or declare dividends?
  • No, a Section 8 Company cannot distribute profits or pay dividends to its members. All profits must be reinvested into the company to further the non-profit objectives for which it was established.
• What documents are required to register a Section 8 Company?
  • The essential documents for registration include identity and address proofs of the directors, Memorandum of Association (MoA), Articles of Association (AoA), Digital Signature Certificates (DSC) of the directors, Director Identification Numbers (DIN) of all directors, and a declaration by a professional certifying compliance with the requirements.
• How long does it take to register a Section 8 Company in India?
  • The registration process can typically take anywhere from 20 to 30 days, depending on the correctness of the application and the responsiveness of the Registrar of Companies (ROC).
• Are there any annual compliance requirements for a Section 8 Company?
  • Yes, like all companies registered under the Companies Act, 2013, Section 8 Companies must file annual returns, financial statements, and income tax returns, along with holding an annual general meeting (AGM) each fiscal year.
• Can a Section 8 Company be converted into any other type of company?
  • Yes, a Section 8 Company can be converted into another type of company, like a private or public limited company, provided it complies with the requirements specified under the Companies Act, including the alteration of its MoA and AoA to remove the sections applicable to Section 8 Companies.
• Is foreign funding allowed for a Section 8 Company?
  • Yes, Section 8 Companies can receive foreign donations. However, they must ensure compliance with the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA), which may require them to obtain a special license to accept foreign funds.
• What happens if a Section 8 Company wants to cease operations?
  • If a Section 8 Company wishes to dissolve, it must apply to the ROC with a specific procedure for winding up or dissolving the company. Any assets remaining after satisfying debts and liabilities must be transferred to another

• Who can start a Section 8 Company?
  • Any individual or group of individuals can start a Section 8 Company, provided they meet the minimum requirements of having at least two directors (for a private company) or three directors (for a public company). Both residents and non-residents can be part of a Section 8 Company.
• What are the minimum capital requirements for a Section 8 Company?
  • Unlike other types of companies, there is no minimum capital requirement for starting a Section 8 Company. The capital structure can be determined based on the needs of the company and the extent of its operations.
• Can a Section 8 Company own property?
  • Yes, a Section 8 Company can own property in its name. Any profits or income derived from such property must be used towards the objectives of the company and cannot be distributed to the members.
• Is it mandatory for a Section 8 Company to have its accounts audited?
  • Yes, it is mandatory for a Section 8 Company to have its accounts audited annually by a practicing chartered accountant. This audit ensures transparency and proper financial management, which is crucial for organizations involved in charitable activities.
• What are the implications if a Section 8 Company does not comply with legal requirements?
  • Non-compliance with the statutory requirements under the Companies Act, 2013, can lead to penalties, fines, or even deregistration of the company. Directors might also face disqualification from holding any directorship in other companies.
• How can a Section 8 Company raise funds?
  • A Section 8 Company can raise funds through donations, grants, sponsorships, and memberships. They can also receive funds from governmental and non-governmental organizations, both domestically and internationally, subject to relevant regulations.
• Can the directors of a Section 8 Company receive remuneration?
  • Yes, directors of a Section 8 Company can receive remuneration as long as it is reasonable and related to the services they provide. However, the remuneration must be approved by the board and disclosed in the annual financial statements.
• What are the reporting requirements for a Section 8 Company regarding changes in the board of directors or key management?
  • Any changes in the board of directors or key managerial personnel must be reported to the Registrar of Companies within 30 days of such change. This includes appointments, resignations, and removals.
• Can a Section 8 Company merge with another company?
  • Yes, a Section 8 Company can merge with another company, including another Section 8 Company or a different type of company. However, the merged entity must continue to comply with the objectives and restrictions of a Section 8 Company if it remains as such.
• Can a Section 8 Company be converted into a different type of company?
  • Converting a Section 8 Company into a for-profit entity is possible but requires a stringent process that includes altering the MoA and AoA, gaining approval from the Registrar and the central government, and ensuring all assets are re-allocated according to non-profit guidelines.
• What is the process for changing the registered office of a Section 8 Company?
  • To change the registered office, a Section 8 Company must notify the Registrar of Companies and ensure that the new location complies with any jurisdictional requirements. This change must be approved by the board and, in some cases, by the members through a special resolution.

• How many directors are required to form a Section 8 Company?
  • A Section 8 Company must have a minimum of two directors if registered as a private company, and at least three directors if registered as a public company. There is no upper limit on the maximum number of directors.
• Can foreign nationals be directors of a Section 8 Company?
  • Yes, foreign nationals can serve as directors of a Section 8 Company. There are no restrictions on the nationality or residency of directors, allowing international expertise to be incorporated into the management.
• What is the maximum number of foreign directors allowed in a Section 8 Company?
  • There is no specific cap on the number of foreign directors a Section 8 Company can have. However, at least one director on the board must be a resident of India, meaning they have stayed in India for not less than 182 days in the previous calendar year.
• What documents are required for appointing directors in a Section 8 Company?
  • The documents required for appointing directors include:
    • Personal Identification: Copy of PAN card (for Indian nationals) or passport (for foreign nationals).
    • Address Proof: Recent utility bills, bank statements, or valid residence proof documents.
    • Director Identification Number (DIN): Every director must have a DIN issued by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs.
    • Digital Signature Certificate (DSC): Required for the directors to sign electronic documents submitted to the ROC.
• Is it necessary for directors of a Section 8 Company to obtain a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)?
  • Yes, it is mandatory for all directors to obtain a DSC. This certificate is used to sign the electronic documents required during the registration process and for ongoing compliance filings with the Ministry of Corporate Affairs.
• Do directors of a Section 8 Company need a Director Identification Number (DIN)?
  • Yes, all directors must have a DIN. This unique number is assigned by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs and is required for anyone who wishes to be a director in an Indian company.
• What is the process for a foreign national to obtain a DIN in India?
  • A foreign national can apply for a DIN by submitting the necessary identification documents, such as a passport and a valid address proof, along with the application form DIR-3. This application must be endorsed by an Indian company where they are proposed to be appointed as a director.
• Can directors of a Section 8 Company be paid remuneration?
  • Yes, directors can receive remuneration for their services to the Section 8 Company. The remuneration must be reasonable and is subject to approval by the board of directors. It should be noted that the primary objective of the company should not be the financial benefit of its members, including directors.
• Are there any specific compliance requirements for foreign directors in a Section 8 Company?
  • Foreign directors must comply with all Indian laws regarding their appointment and operation within the company, including obtaining a valid employment visa if they are residing and working in India. They must also comply with any applicable tax regulations.
• What happens if a director fails to maintain the required compliance?
  • Failure to comply with the legal requirements can lead to penalties for the director and the company, ranging from fines to disqualification of the directors from holding any board positions in the future.

• How should a Section 8 Company be named?
  • A Section 8 Company must be named according to the guidelines under the Companies Act, 2013. The name should reflect the non-profit nature and objectives of the company and must include words like “Foundation,” “Association,” “Society,” “Council,” etc. The name should not include misleading terms that imply a different business nature or governmental affiliation unless approved by the appropriate authorities.
• What are the rules for checking available names for a Section 8 Company?
  • Before selecting a name, it must be verified for availability through the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) portal to ensure that it is not similar to any existing company or trademark. The proposed name should be distinctive and not too generic to avoid confusion with pre-existing entities.
• What are the requirements for the registered address of a Section 8 Company?
  • The registered office of a Section 8 Company must be a place where the company can receive official communications and notices from the MCA. The address must be a physical location within India and not merely a postal box.
• What documents are required as proof of address for registering a Section 8 Company?
  • Documents required typically include a recent utility bill (not older than two months), a lease or rent agreement, or ownership documents of the property being used as the registered office. The utility bill should be in the name of the company or the director.
• Is a rent agreement required for the registered office of a Section 8 Company?
  • If the registered office is a rented property, a valid rental agreement is required to serve as proof of the legal occupancy of the premises by the company.
• Is a No Objection Certificate (NOC) required from the landlord for a rented office space?
  • Yes, a NOC from the landlord is required, stating that they have no objection to the company using the premises as its registered office. This document is necessary to ensure there are no legal disputes regarding the use of the property later on.
• Can the registered address of a Section 8 Company be changed?
  • Yes, the registered address can be changed within the same city or town with notice to the concerned Registrar of Companies. If the change involves shifting to a different city or state, it requires approval from the regional director, and the changes must be noted in the Memorandum of Association.
• What are the implications of not maintaining a proper registered address?
  • Failing to maintain a proper registered address can lead to penalties, inability to receive official communication, and potential deregistration of the company. It’s crucial for compliance and operational integrity.
• How often should the documentation for the registered address be updated?
  • Documentation should be updated whenever there is a change in the registered address or the ownership status of the property. Additionally, lease or rent agreements should be kept current to avoid any legal complications.
• What happens if the registered office is shifted to another state?
  • Shifting the registered office to another state involves altering the Memorandum of Association and approval from the MCA. The company must also provide public notice about the change to ensure transparency and update all stakeholders.

• What are the annual reporting requirements for a Section 8 Company?
  • Section 8 Companies must submit annual returns and financial statements to the Registrar of Companies. This includes the balance sheet, profit and loss account, and compliance certificate from a certified auditor detailing the company’s adherence to the legal and financial norms.
• Are Section 8 Companies subject to audit requirements?
  • Yes, Section 8 Companies must have their accounts audited annually by a chartered accountant. The auditor must provide an audit report, which includes a statement on the company’s compliance with the provisions of the Companies Act.
• What are the consequences of not adhering to the objectives outlined in the Memorandum of Association?
  • Not adhering to the stated objectives can lead to penalties, including fines or additional sanctions from regulatory bodies. In severe cases, this could also result in the revocation of the company’s status as a Section 8 Company.
• Can a Section 8 Company undertake commercial activities?
  • A Section 8 Company can engage in commercial activities as long as the proceeds are used solely for the non-profit objectives it was established to promote. Any commercial activities must align with and support the company’s primary goals.
• What governance structure is required for a Section 8 Company?
  • Section 8 Companies are required to have a Board of Directors and may also set up various committees to oversee specific tasks or projects. Governance should adhere to the principles of transparency, accountability, and efficiency to ensure proper management and use of resources.
• How can one dissolve a Section 8 Company?
  • Dissolving a Section 8 Company involves applying to the Registrar of Companies with a detailed reason for closure, settling all debts and liabilities, and ensuring any remaining assets are transferred to another Section 8 Company or as specified in the company’s MoA.
• What are the restrictions on remunerating the Board of Directors in a Section 8 Company?
  • While directors can receive remuneration for their services, such payments must be reasonable and approved by the board. The remuneration must also be disclosed in the financial statements and cannot detract from the non-profit objectives.
• Is there a requirement for the rotation of auditors in a Section 8 Company?
  • Yes, according to the Companies Act, auditors of a Section 8 Company must rotate as prescribed under the Act, which helps maintain auditor independence and integrity in the financial reporting process.
• What procedures must be followed when changing the objectives of a Section 8 Company?
  • Any change to the objectives must be approved by a special resolution of the board and members, followed by approval from the central government. The changes must be consistent with the general spirit of public benefit and detailed in an altered MoA.