Registration as a Non Profit Organisation (NPO) in South Africa

From NGOPedia

NGOs can voluntarily apply for NPO status to the Non-Profit Directorate in the National Department of Social Development. If they fulfil the necessary requirements, they are assigned an NPO number.

To maintain their NPO status, the NGO has to submit specified annual reports. This allows government to check their conformity to legal requirements on an ongoing basis. Having an NPO registration provides the donor with assurances that the NGO is being held accountable by a public office and thereby improves their chances of qualifying for funding and donations.

Website www.npo.gov.za (follow links to check NPO status).

Registration as a Public Benefit Organisation (PBO) with tax exempt status

A further registration with the South African Revenue Services as a Public Benefit Organisation (PBO – Section 18a) provides the potential donors of PBOs with tax rebates. There is a list of Public Benefit activities published by the South African Receiver of Revenue which the organisation must prove are part of their programme.

See the online link: Guide for Public Benefit Organisations (PBO's)

Note: In South Africa other CSOs such as CBOs, FBOs and Trade Unions can also be registered as NPOs.