CLUB REGISTRATION

1. Introduction

A Club is a voluntary association formed by a group of individuals for promoting sports, cultural activities, social welfare, recreation, or community development. To function legally and transparently, clubs must be registered under appropriate laws depending on their nature and activities.

2. Purpose of Club Registration

• To obtain legal identity and official recognition.

• To open a bank account in the club’s name.

• To apply for government grants, affiliation, or sponsorships.

• To conduct activities transparently and maintain accountability.

• To enter into agreements, hold property, and receive donations.

• To avoid legal disputes among members.

3. Acts Under Which a Club Can Be Registered

Depending on the State and nature of activities, clubs may register under:

1.Societies Registration Act, 1860

2.West Bengal Societies Registration Act, 1961(for West Bengal clubs)

3.Trust Act(less common for clubs)

4.Section 8 Company (Not-for-Profit Company)under Companies Act, 2013

5.Co-operative Societies Act (for member-benefit clubs)

Most sports, social, cultural, and community clubs are registered as Societies.

4. Main Objectives of Club (Illustrative)

• To promote sports, games, physical activities, and recreation.

• To organize cultural, social, welfare, and educational programs.

• To promote youth development and community engagement

• To conduct tournaments, events, seminars, training camps, etc.

• To develop leadership, teamwork, and social harmony.

• To provide facilities for reading, indoor and outdoor games.

• To encourage environmental awareness and social responsibilities

5. Minimum Requirements to Register a Club (Society Mode)

• Minimum 7 members above 18 years.

• One President, Secretary, and Treasurer must be elected.

• Registered office address proof.

• Proper Memorandum of Association (MOA) and Rules & Regulations (By-laws).

6. Documents Required

1. Draft MOA (Memorandum of Association)

2. Draft Rules & Regulations / By-laws

3. Resolution for the formation of the club

4. KYC of all members (Aadhaar, PAN, photo)

5. Address proof of the club office (rent agreement/owner NOC)

6. Utility bill (electricity/telephone)

7. List of Executive Committee Members

8. Affidavit/Declaration (if required by the Registrar)

7. Steps for Registration of a Club (Society Registration)

1. Prepare MOA & By-laws

2. Collect KYC documents of all members

3. Hold a meeting to approve formation and elect office bearers

4. Prepare resolution & sign all documents

5. File documents online/offline with the Registrar of Societies

6. Pay registration fee

7. Registrar verifies documents

8. Issuance of Certificate of Registration

8. Post-Registration Compliance

• Maintain register of members

• Maintain minutes book for meetings

• Maintain financial accounts and bills

• Annual filing with Registrar (as required by state laws)

• Conduct annual general meetings (AGM)

• Renew certificate (if applicable in that state)

9. Benefits of Registered Club

• Legal status and credibility

• Ability to receive invitations, governmental offers, and affiliation

• Eligibility for sports grants, cultural support, CSR funds

• Increased member transparency

• Ability to own property or lease land

• Option to register for 12A & 80G for tax exemption (after society registration)

10. Conclusion

Club Registration is essential for running a transparent, lawful, and well-managed organization. A properly registered club enjoys legal recognition, financial accountability, and access to various government schemes and opportunities.