How to verify an NGO is genuine and 80G-registered before you donate
A two-minute checklist so your money reaches a real, registered charity - and so you can claim your tax deduction. Here is exactly what to check, and the fastest way to skip the legwork.
Shortcut: browse the public NGO directory - every listed NGO shows its 12A / 80G / FCRA registrations and a public Trust Score, so you can verify and donate in one place.
Ask for the 80G and 12A registration numbers
A genuine, tax-deduction-eligible NGO will readily share its 12A and 80G registration (URN) numbers. 12A means the organisation is income-tax exempt; 80G means your donation qualifies for a deduction. No 80G number means no tax benefit for you - and a reluctance to share is a red flag.
Verify the 80G is current under the 12AB regime
Since 2021, 12A and 80G must be renewed every five years. Check that the 80G approval is still within its validity period. The NGO's approval letter or its public profile should state the validity dates.
Match the NGO's name and PAN
The receipt and registration must be in the same legal name, with a valid PAN. The donation receipt should carry the NGO name, address, PAN and 80G number. A mismatch between the name you are donating to and the registered entity is a serious warning sign.
Check FCRA status if you are donating from abroad
If you are an NRI or foreign donor, the NGO must hold a valid FCRA registration and receive your money in its designated FCRA account at SBI Main Branch, New Delhi. Without FCRA, it cannot legally accept foreign contributions.
Confirm it is on NGO Darpan (NITI Aayog)
A Darpan ID signals the NGO is registered with NITI Aayog - a prerequisite for CSR funding and most government grants, and a basic credibility check.
Use a public NGO registry with a trust score
The fastest path is a directory that has already verified registrations. On the Donateazy public registry, each listed NGO shows its registrations and a public Trust Score, so you can confirm legitimacy and give with a receipt that is 80G-ready.
Insist on a proper 80G receipt and your Form 10BE
After you donate, you should receive an 80G receipt immediately, and - after the NGO files its annual Form 10BD - a Form 10BE certificate. You need the 10BE to actually claim the deduction in your tax return. Keep both.
Verify and give in one place
The Donateazy registry lists verified NGOs with their registrations and Trust Score, and every donation gets an instant 80G receipt.
Browse verified NGOs →Donor FAQ
How do I know if an NGO has 80G registration?
Ask for the 80G registration (URN) number and its validity dates, and check the donation receipt carries the NGO's name, PAN and 80G number. A public registry like the Donateazy NGO directory lists each NGO's registrations so you can confirm before giving.
What is the difference between 12A and 80G for a donor?
12A is the NGO's own income-tax exemption. 80G is what matters to you as a donor - it lets you claim a deduction (usually 50%) on your donation. An NGO needs 12A first, then 80G.
What document do I need to claim the 80G deduction?
You need Form 10BE, the certificate the Income Tax portal generates after the NGO files its annual Form 10BD. The immediate 80G receipt is your acknowledgement; the 10BE is what substantiates the claim in your return.
Can I donate foreign currency to any Indian NGO?
No. Only NGOs with valid FCRA registration can legally receive foreign contributions, and only into their designated FCRA bank account. Verify FCRA status before sending money from abroad.
Is a higher Trust Score safer to donate to?
A Trust Score is a signal, not a guarantee - it reflects verified registrations, compliance history and transparency. Use it alongside the checks above rather than as the only basis for your decision.