CSR Section 135 Companies explained: this guide covers what it means, who it applies to, the step-by-step process, documents required, fees, due dates and penalties in India — so you can stay compliant with confidence and avoid costly mistakes.
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is mandatory for qualifying companies under Section 135 of the Companies Act 2013. India was one of the first countries to make CSR legally mandatory, requiring eligible companies to spend at least 2% of average net profits of the preceding three financial years on CSR activities.
Which Companies Must Comply with CSR?
Any company (including foreign company branch/project) that meets any one of the following in the immediately preceding financial year:
- Net Worth ≥ Rs. 500 crore, OR
- Turnover ≥ Rs. 1,000 crore, OR
- Net Profit ≥ Rs. 5 crore
If a company qualifies in one year, it must comply in the next financial year, even if it falls below the threshold in the next year.
CSR Spend Requirement
- Minimum 2% of average net profit of the preceding 3 financial years
- Net profit = profit computed per Companies Act (not ITA) — before tax
- Dividends from domestic subsidiaries are excluded from net profit
- If prescribed CSR amount < Rs. 50 lakh, the company need not constitute a CSR Committee (board directly handles CSR)
CSR Committee
- Mandatory for companies with CSR obligation > Rs. 50 lakh
- At least 3 directors, including 1 independent director (listed/public companies)
- For unlisted private companies: 2 directors (independent director not mandatory)
Schedule VII — Eligible CSR Activities
- Eradicating hunger, poverty, malnutrition
- Promoting healthcare, sanitation, safe drinking water
- Education, vocational skills, livelihoods
- Gender equality, women empowerment
- Environmental sustainability, ecological conservation
- National Heritage protection, art and culture
- Armed forces veterans, war widows
- Rural development projects
- Swachh Bharat Kosh, Clean Ganga Fund
- PM CARES Fund
What is NOT Eligible as CSR?
- Activities that benefit only employees and their families
- Political contributions
- Sponsorships for marketing/brand promotion
- Contributions to set-up CSR infrastructure costs claimed as CSR expense
Unspent CSR Amount
If CSR spend is less than prescribed 2%:
- Ongoing projects: Unspent amount transferred to Unspent CSR Account within 30 days; must be spent within 3 years
- Other projects: Unspent amount transferred to PM Relief Fund / Schedule VII fund within 6 months of financial year end
Key Facts About CSR Section 135 Companies
- Applies in: All states across India, under the relevant central law.
- Mode: Mostly online via the official government portal.
- Typical timeline: Ranges from a few days to a few weeks depending on the case.
- Non-compliance: May attract penalties, interest or late fees.
- Expert help: TaxClue completes the entire process end to end for you.
Which companies must comply with CSR under Section 135?
Companies with net worth Rs. 500 crore+, turnover Rs. 1,000 crore+, or net profit Rs. 5 crore+ in the preceding financial year must comply.
How much must be spent on CSR?
Minimum 2% of average net profits of the preceding 3 financial years.
Over 90% of compliance penalties in India arise from missed due dates — timely handling can save businesses thousands of rupees each year.
CSR Section 135 Companies: a key compliance topic in Indian tax and corporate law that businesses and individuals must understand to remain compliant.
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Why This Matters
Staying compliant with Indian regulations protects your business from penalties, interest and unnecessary legal trouble. It is always wise to maintain proper records and documentation so that any future scrutiny can be handled smoothly. Rules and thresholds in company law are revised periodically, so it helps to review your obligations at the start of each financial year. Professional guidance from a qualified CA, CS or advocate ensures that filings are accurate and submitted well before the due date.
Small businesses and startups especially benefit from setting up a simple compliance calendar to track recurring deadlines. Government portals now allow most applications and filings to be completed online, reducing paperwork and turnaround time. Keeping your PAN, registration certificates and board resolutions organised makes every subsequent filing faster. When in doubt, it is better to seek clarification early rather than risk a notice or a late-filing penalty later.
A clear understanding of the applicable law helps you make confident, well-informed business decisions. TaxClue's experts regularly assist businesses across India with end-to-end company law support at transparent, affordable pricing. Timely compliance also improves your credibility with banks, investors and government authorities.
Getting CSR Section 135 Companies right the first time saves both time and money. Many businesses seek expert help for CSR Section 135 Companies to stay fully compliant.