Startup India Recognition (DPIIT): Benefits, Eligibility & Registration 2026

How to apply

1. Incorporate a company/LLP/partnership (private limited or LLP are preferred for benefits)
2. Prepare a pitch deck and proof of innovation
3. Register on startupindia.gov.in and apply under DPIIT recognition
4. Upload incorporation certificate, innovation summary and turnover statement
5. Recognition is typically granted within days after document verification

Benefits at a glance

• 80-IAC: 100% profit deduction on 3 of first 10 years (subject to conditions)
• Angel tax exemption: investment received per Section 56(2)(viib) exempt for eligible startups
• Loss carry-forward relaxed: 10 years under Section 79 (subject to shareholder conditions) for eligible startups only
• Self-certification of compliance under 6 labour laws and 3 environmental laws
• GeM/outer preference in government procurement as an MSE-like participant
• Easy exit: fast-track insolvency and winding-up routes

Conditions to keep

• Maintain the Rs. 100 crore turnover test each year
• File the annual statement of profits and turnover with DPIIT
• Notify changes in shareholders/investment promptly
• Tax holiday claims require Form 10CCE/10CCF certifications with the return
• The 80-IAC window started from FY 2016-17 for FY-appropriate compliance period

What you should do

• Apply for DPIIT recognition within 6 months if you are a new entity
• Keep a clean shareholding record for angel-tax exemption claims
• Track the turnover test every quarter
• Incorporate as Pvt Ltd or LLP before applying for entity-level benefits
• For entity-specific claims (80-IAC), consult a CA on eligibility before relying on the blanket exemption