PSR Compliance: Why CSR-1 Registration Is Essential for NGOs

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) has become a major pillar of social and economic development in India. With the introduction of CSR rules under the Companies Act, 2013, companies are now required to invest a portion of their profits in eligible social activities. However, for NGOs and charitable organizations to receive CSR funding, they must be officially registered through a special compliance form called CSR-1.

If your organization wants to work with corporates, receive CSR donations, or participate in CSR-funded projects, CSR-1 Registration is mandatory. This article explains everything you need to know — including its meaning, benefits, documents, registration process, timeline, fee overview, and how PSR Compliance can assist in completing CSR-1 registration smoothly.

What Is CSR-1 Registration?

CSR-1, also known as Form CSR-1, is an official registration form that must be filed by NGOs or implementing agencies to become eligible for receiving CSR funds from companies. It is governed under Section 135 of the Companies Act, along with the CSR Rules.

Only organizations that receive CSR-1 approval from the government are included in the list of CSR Implementing Agencies, which means they are legally eligible to work on CSR projects funded by Indian companies.

CSR-1 registration applies to organizations such as:

Trusts
Societies
Section 8 Companies
Non-profit organizations with charitable objects

Once CSR-1 is filed and approved, the NGO receives a unique CSR Registration Number, confirming its eligibility to take part in CSR initiatives, run CSR projects, and receive corporate donations.

Advantages of CSR-1 Registration

CSR-1 registration offers several important benefits to NGOs and social organizations.

a. Eligibility to Receive CSR Funds

Only NGOs registered under CSR-1 can receive CSR contributions from companies. Without this approval, corporates are not permitted to donate to your organization for CSR activities.

b. Builds Trust and Credibility

CSR-1 certification acts as an official government-backed validation, enhancing the trustworthiness of your organization. Companies prefer working with compliant NGOs with proper registrations.

c. Opportunities for Collaboration

CSR-1 opens doors to partnerships with corporates, PSUs, and other institutions that conduct large-scale CSR initiatives across India.

d. Eligibility for Large CSR Projects

Many large organizations outsource significant CSR budgets to certified NGOs. With CSR-1 approval, your NGO can apply for government-backed and corporate-backed social development projects.

e. Transparency and Compliance

CSR-1 helps maintain transparency and ensures NGOs follow proper governance, financial management, and reporting practices — increasing their long-term sustainability.

f. Competitive Advantage

Among thousands of NGOs in India, only those with CSR-1 can legally work with companies. This gives your organization a competitive edge in project acquisition.

Documents Required for CSR-1 Registration

To file CSR-1, NGOs must prepare certain documents to establish their legal status, governance, and credibility. Here is the complete list:

Key Organizational Documents

Registration Certificate of the NGO
Trust Deed / Society Registration Certificate / Section 8 Company License
PAN of the NGO

12A and 80G Registration

Copy of registration certificates under Section 12A
Copy of registration certificate under Section 80G of the Income Tax Act
(These are mandatory for CSR-1 approval.)

Board or Governing Body Details

PAN and Aadhaar of all board members
Contact details of responsible persons
DIN (if applicable)

Address Proof

Latest utility bill (electricity/water/telephone)
Registered office address proof

Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)

CSR-1 must be signed by:

The authorized person of the NGO
A practicing professional such as a Chartered Accountant, Company Secretary, or Cost Accountant

Step-by-Step CSR-1 Registration Process

CSR-1 registration happens online through the MCA (Ministry of Corporate Affairs) portal. Below is the simplified process:

Step 1: Verify NGO Eligibility

Before filing CSR-1, ensure your organization meets these criteria:

Registered as a Trust/Society/Section 8 Company
Has valid 12A and 80G certificates
Has at least three years of social activity (for most categories)

Step 2: Prepare All Required Documents

Collect organizational documents, identity proofs, registration certificates, and DSCs.

Step 3: Download and Fill Form CSR-1

CSR-1 is a specific form available on the MCA portal. The form includes:

Organizational details
Legal registration information
PAN and address
Details of the governing body
Official contact information

Step 4: Attach Necessary Documents

Upload all required supporting documents in the prescribed format.

Step 5: Certification by Professional

CSR-1 must be digitally certified by a practicing:

This step is mandatory for validation.

Step 6: Submission on MCA Portal

Submit the form using the organization’s DSC.

Step 7: MCA Verification

The Registrar of Companies reviews the form, validates the documents, and confirms the eligibility of the NGO.

Step 8: Issue of CSR Registration Number

Upon approval, the NGO receives:

CSR Registration Number
Confirmation email

This number enables the NGO to receive CSR funds and implement CSR projects legally.

Timeline for CSR-1 Registration

CSR-1 registration is generally quick if documents are accurate and complete.

Typical timeline:

Document Preparation: 1–2 days
Filing CSR-1 Form: Same day
MCA Verification: 5–10 working days

Total Time: 7–12 working days

Delays may occur only if documents are missing or if corrections are required.

Fees for CSR-1 Registration

Government filing fees for CSR-1 are minimal, but organizations may incur:

Professional fees (CA/CS/CMA certification)
Documentation and filing charges
Consultancy fees (optional)

Compared to the opportunities it opens, CSR-1 registration is highly cost-effective for NGOs seeking corporate partnerships.

PSR Compliance Assistance for CSR-1 Registration

CSR-1 filing involves technical steps, documentation requirements, and professional certification. Even small errors can lead to rejections or long delays. This is where PSR Compliance provides expert support.

How PSR Compliance Helps NGOs:

a. Document Preparation Support

PSR helps review and organize all mandatory documents such as 12A, 80G, registration certificates, and board details.

b. Form Filling Assistance

They accurately fill out Form CSR-1 to avoid errors that could lead to rejection.

c. Digital Signature & Professional Certification

PSR arranges DSC support and ensures the form is certified by qualified professionals like CA, CS, or CMA.

d. Quick Filing and Approval

Their experience in CSR compliance ensures faster processing and reduces delays.

e. Post-Registration Compliance Guidance

After CSR-1 approval, they assist with:

CSR reporting
Annual compliance
Documentation for corporate partnerships

This ongoing support helps NGOs operate confidently and professionally.

Conclusion

CSR-1 Registration is essential for NGOs and social organizations aiming to work with corporates, receive CSR donations, and contribute to social development projects across India. With CSR-1 approval, your organization gains credibility, legal recognition, and access to large-scale opportunities under Corporate Social Responsibility.

If you want a smooth and error-free CSR-1 registration experience, professional guidance can save time, eliminate mistakes, and ensure quick approval.

To get expert assistance for CSR-1 Registration, visit:
👉 https://www.psrcompliance.com/csr-1-registration

Why CSR-1 Registration Is Essential for NGOs