WHAT IS SECTION 8 COMPANY?
A Section 8 Company is a company established for promoting commerce, art, science, sports, education, research, social welfare, religion, charity, or any other useful object, with the intention of applying its profits, if any, or other income in promoting its objects and intends to prohibit the payment of any dividend to its members,
CHARACTERISTICS:
1. Not-for-Profit: Section 8 Companies are non- profit organizations.
2. No Minimum Capital: There is no minimum paid-up capital requirement.
3. Limited Liability: Members have limited liability.
4. No Dividend Distribution: Profits cannot be distributed as dividends.
5. Central Government License: Requires a license from the Central Government.
REGISTRATION PROCESS:
1. Name Approval: Apply for a unique name through the MCA portal.
2. Digital Signature Certificate (DSC): Obtain a DSC for directors and shareholders.
3. Director Identification Number (DIN): Obtain a DIN for directors.
4. Incorporation Documents: File Form SPICe+ and supporting documents with the ROC.
5. Central Government License: Apply for a license from the Central Government.
COMPLIANCE REQUIREMENTS:
1. Annual Filing: File annual returns with the ROC.
2. Income Tax Filing: File income tax returns with the Income Tax Department.
3. GST Registration: Register for Goods and Services Tax (GST) if applicable.
ADVANTAGES OF SECTION 8 COMPANY:
1. Tax Exemptions: Eligible for tax exemptions under Section 80G and 12A.
2. Enhanced Credibility: Attracts donors, grants, and collaborations.
3. Limited Liability: Protects members' personal assets.
DISADVANTAGES OF SECTION 8 COMPANY:
1. Restrictions on Profit Distribution: Profits cannot be distributed as dividends.
2. Compliance Burden: Must comply with various regulations and filings.
3. Central Government License: Requires a license from the Central Government.
FAQ’s
Q1: What is a Section 8 Company?
A1: A Section 8 Company is a not-for-profit company established for promoting commerce, art, science, sports, education, research, social welfare, religion, charity, or any other useful object.
Q2: What are the main characteristics of a Section 8 Company?
A2: Key characteristics include no minimum capital requirement, limited liability, no dividend distribution, and a Central Government license.
Q3: What is the purpose of a Section 8 Company?
A3: The purpose is to promote a specific object, apply profits towards that object, and not distribute dividends.
Q4: How do I register a Section 8 Company?
A4: Registration involves name approval, DSC, DIN, incorporation documents, and a Central Government license.
Q5: What are the compliance requirements for a Section 8 Company?
A5: Compliance includes annual filing, income tax filing, GST registration, and audits.
Q6: Can a Section 8 Company distribute profits?
A6: No, profits cannot be distributed as dividends.
Q7: Can a Section 8 Company be converted into another type of company?
A7: Yes, it can be converted into a Private Limited Company or Public Limited Company with necessary procedures and approvals.
Q8: Can a foreign national be a director in a Section 8 Company?
A8: Yes, but they need to obtain a DIN and meet other requirements.
Q9: How many members are required to form a Section 8 Company?
A9: A minimum of 2 members are required.
Q10: Can a Section 8 Company have a paid-up capital?
A11: Yes, but there is no minimum requirement.
Q11: Can a Section 8 Company issue shares?
A12: Yes, but only to its members and not to the general public.