A non-profit organization is a trust, corporation, or other organization of individuals set up to help those in need or need. Being a registered non-profit organization (NPO) not only increases your fundraising potential but also shows your community that you care about providing quality service. NPOs can register with their NPO Directorate at the National Department of Social Development (DSD).

Types of NGOs include:

• Non Profit Organisation in terms of the NPO Act of 1997
• Community-based organisations (CBOs)
• Faith-based organisations (FBOs)
• Organisations that have registered as Non profit Company (NPC) under the Company Act 61 of 1973
• Trusts that have registered with Master of the High Court under the Trust Property Control Act 57 of 1988
• Any other voluntary association or also referred to as “associations of persons”
• Public Benefit Organisation (PBO) in terms of the Income Tax Act

To register your NPO you’ll need the following founding documents:

• A constitution if the organisation is a Voluntary Association.
• A Trust Deed (a written agreement used by trusts) if the organisation is a Trust.
• A Memorandum of Incorporation (MOI) if the organisation is registered as a NPC

The next step would be to:

1. Register online.
2. Complete the application form and 2 copies of your NPO founding documents (constitution or deed of trust, and memorandum and articles of association).
3. Submit the application form and founding documents via email or post.

Where to apply

You can post your documents to:

NPO Directorate 
Department of Social Development
Private Bag X901
Pretoria
0001

or hand-deliver them to:

NPO Directorate
HSRC Building
134 Pretorius Street
Pretoria
0002

You can contact the NPO Directorate on:

Tel: 012 312 7500
Email: Npoenquiry@dsd.gov.za