Tax Exemption

Tax Exemption – An Overview

Tax exemption refers to specific provisions under Indian tax laws that allow individuals, businesses, and especially non-profit organizations and startups to reduce or completely eliminate their tax liability on eligible income or donations.

For startups and NGOs, obtaining tax exemptions is crucial for financial sustainability, reinvestment of surplus, and building donor or investor confidence.

Tax Exemption for Startups

Recognized startups under the Startup India initiative can apply for Income Tax Exemption under Section 80-IAC of the Income Tax Act. This provides:

100% tax exemption on profits for 3 consecutive financial years out of the first 10 years.

Applicable only if the startup is incorporated as a Private Limited Company or LLP and is DPIIT-recognized.

The turnover must not exceed ₹100 crores in any financial year.

Tax Exemption for NGOs

Registered NGOs can apply for the following:

Section 12A Registration: Grants income tax exemption on surplus funds or donations received.

Section 80G Registration: Allows donors to claim tax deductions on donations made to the NGO, increasing donor motivation.

Benefits of Tax Exemption

Saves Costs: Startups and NGOs retain more funds for growth or social work.

Encourages Donations & Investments: Donors and investors benefit from tax rebates.

Enhances Credibility: Tax-exempt status builds trust and opens access to government schemes and funding.

Supports Long-term Vision: Organizations can plan for expansion and innovation without excessive tax burdens.

Documents Required

For startups:

DPIIT Certificate

Incorporation Certificate

Financial statements

Business plan or projections

For NGOs:

Trust/Society/Section 8 Incorporation Docs

PAN of the organization

12A/80G application forms

Activity reports

Audited accounts for the last 3 years (for older NGOs)

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    Frequently Asked
    Questions

    Find answers to some of the most common questions about our services. If you don’t see what you’re looking for, feel free to reach out to us.

    1. What is the benefit of Section 80-IAC for startups?

    Section 80-IAC provides eligible startups with 100% income tax exemption on profits for any 3 consecutive years out of the first 10 years since incorporation, helping them reinvest profits into growth.

    2. What is the difference between 12A and 80G registration for NGOs?

    12A allows NGOs to exempt their income from tax. 80G allows donors to claim tax deductions on donations made to the NGO, encouraging more contributions.

    3. Can a newly registered NGO apply for 80G and 12A immediately?

    Yes, a newly registered NGO (Trust, Society, or Section 8 Company) can apply for provisional 12A and 80G registrations right after incorporation.

    4. Are tax exemptions applicable to all startups?

    No, only DPIIT-recognized startups that meet specific conditions like being a Private Limited or LLP, having turnover under ₹100 crores, and not formed by splitting or reconstructing an existing business, are eligible.

    5. What happens if an NGO or startup fails to comply with exemption conditions?

    Non-compliance may lead to cancellation of the tax exemption status, penalties, or repayment of previously exempted tax amounts. Regular filings and proper documentation are essential to maintain benefits.

    6. What happens if NGOs do not comply with annual filing requirements?

    Non-compliance with filing requirements (like Form 10BD, FC-4, RoC filings) can lead to penalties, cancellation of registration, loss of tax exemptions, and ineligibility to receive future grants or donations.