How to File CSR-1 Form Online: Complete Step-by-Step Guide for 2025 Registration
Mandatory Filing Procedure for CSR Registration
📋 Table of Contents
What is e-Form CSR-1?
e-Form CSR-1 is an electronic form used for the registration of entities undertaking Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) activities. This form enables NGOs, trusts, societies, and Section 8 companies to register with the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) to become eligible for receiving CSR funding from companies.
Key Purpose
The primary purpose of CSR-1 is to create a database of registered entities that can legally receive and implement CSR funds from companies, ensuring transparency and accountability in CSR activities.
Why is Filing CSR-1 Mandatory?
Filing CSR-1 has been mandatory since April 1, 2021, for all implementing agencies. Here’s why:
Legal Requirement
- Compliance with Companies Act: As per the Companies (Corporate Social Responsibility Policy) Rules, 2014, all entities seeking CSR funds must be registered.
- Eligibility Criteria: Only registered entities can receive CSR funds from companies.
- Transparency: Creates a transparent system for CSR fund allocation and utilization.
- Accountability: Ensures proper tracking and monitoring of CSR activities.
Who Can File CSR-1?
The following entities are eligible to file CSR-1:
- Section 8 Companies: Registered under Section 8 of the Companies Act, 2013
- Registered Public Trusts: With valid trust deed and registration
- Registered Societies: Under the Societies Registration Act, 1860
- NGOs: With proper registration and 12A/80G certifications
Essential Requirements
- Registration under Section 12A and 80G of the Income Tax Act
- At least 3 years of experience in undertaking charitable activities
- Valid registration certificate
- Proper organizational structure
Details Required for CSR-1 Filing
The following information and documents are required for filing CSR-1:
Basic Information Required:
- Nature of Entity: Whether it’s a trust, society, or Section 8 company
- Registration Number: CIN number or registration number of the entity
- Date of Incorporation: When the entity was established
- Address Details: Complete registered address
- Email ID: Official email address (will be verified through OTP)
- Mobile Number: Contact number (will be verified through OTP)
- PAN Number: Permanent Account Number of the entity
- CSR Activities: Details of proposed CSR activities
Documents Required:
- Copy of Registration Certificate of the entity
- Trust deed (for trusts) / Memorandum of Association (for companies)
- Copy of PAN card
- Resolution authorizing the person to file CSR-1
- 12A and 80G certificates (if applicable)
- Audited financial statements for the last 3 years
- List of activities undertaken in the last 3 years
Step-by-Step Filing Procedure
Access MCA Portal
Visit the official MCA portal at www.mca.gov.in and log in using your credentials. If you don’t have an account, you’ll need to register first. Use the official links provided above to access the CSR-1 form directly.
Navigate to CSR-1 Form
Go to ‘MCA Services’ → Select ‘eForms’ → Choose ‘CSR-1’ from the list of available forms.
Fill Basic Information
Enter basic details such as entity name, registration number, registered address, and contact information.
Email and Mobile Verification
Verify your email ID and mobile number through OTP (One Time Password) sent by MCA.
Upload Required Documents
Upload all mandatory documents including registration certificate, trust deed/MOA, PAN card, and authorization resolution.
Professional Certification
The form must be certified by a practicing Chartered Accountant, Company Secretary, or Cost Accountant. This certification is mandatory.
Digital Signature
The form must be digitally signed by the authorized person of the entity and the certifying professional.
Submit the Form
Review all information, ensure accuracy, and submit the form. There is no government filing fee for CSR-1.
Receive CSR Registration Number
Upon successful submission and verification, MCA will generate a unique CSR Registration Number (CRN) and send acknowledgment via email.
Important Points to Remember
- No Filing Fee: There is no government fee for filing CSR-1
- STP Processing: The form is processed in Straight Through Processing (STP) mode
- Unique CRN: Each registered entity gets a unique CSR Registration Number
- Professional Certification: Mandatory certification by CA/CS/CMA is required
- Regular Updates: Keep your CSR-1 information updated with any changes
- Compliance: Ensure all activities are within the scope of CSR as defined in Schedule VII
Form Format and Official Links
The CSR-1 form is available in electronic format on the MCA portal. You can access the form and related documents using the official links below:
Official CSR-1 Form Links
Form Name: CSR-1 – Registration for undertaking CSR Activities
Document Type: getdocument format
Portal: MCA21 Portal (www.mca.gov.in)
Note: These are the official MCA portal links. Always use official government links for form submission to ensure security and authenticity.
Additional Resources & Useful Links
Here are additional resources to help you with CSR-1 filing and CSR compliance:
🔗 Quick Access Links
Bookmark these important links for quick access:
Common Mistakes to Avoid
⚠️ Frequent Filing Errors:
- Incomplete Documentation: Missing required certificates or improperly scanned documents
- Wrong Professional Certification: Using non-practicing CA/CS/CMA for certification
- Incorrect Entity Details: Mismatch between registration documents and form entries
- Email/Mobile Issues: Using incorrect contact details that prevent OTP verification
- Digital Signature Problems: Using expired or incorrect class of digital certificates
- Activity Scope Errors: Mentioning activities outside Schedule VII scope
💡 Pro Tips for Successful Filing:
- Double-check all information before submission
- Keep all documents in proper format and within size limits
- Ensure your professional certifier is actively practicing
- Use official MCA portal links only
- Save acknowledgment receipts for future reference
Disclaimer
Disclaimer: The author shall not be liable for any direct, indirect, incidental, or consequential damages arising from the use of or reliance on the information provided herein. Users are advised to consult professionals before acting on any information.
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