Startup India Eligibility Checker — DPIIT Recognition
Check if your business qualifies for Startup India DPIIT recognition. Answer 7 questions covering entity type, age, turnover, innovation, and structure. Get instant eligibility verdict with benefits you can avail — 80-IAC tax exemption (3 years 100% profit deduction), angel tax exemption, patent fast-track, and Seed Fund access.
Check Startup India Eligibility
How to Use
Answer 7 eligibility questions with Yes/No. The tool checks each criterion against DPIIT notification dated February 2019 (as amended). Green = meets criteria, Red = does not meet. All 7 must be “Yes” for eligibility.
CA Tip: DPIIT recognition is separate from MSME/Udyam registration. You can and should get both. Startup India gives tax exemption under Section 80-IAC, while MSME gives lending and procurement benefits. Our CAs at ICAI-member firm can assist with both applications.
Startup India Benefits After DPIIT Recognition
| Benefit | Details | Section/Scheme |
|---|---|---|
| Tax Exemption | 100% profit deduction for 3 of first 10 years | Section 80-IAC |
| Angel Tax Exemption | No tax on share premium above FMV | Section 56(2)(viib) |
| Capital Gains Exemption | Exemption on investment in eligible startups | Section 54GB |
| Patent Fast-Track | 80% rebate on patent fees + expedited exam | Patent Rules |
| Trademark Rebate | 50% rebate on trademark filing fees | TM Rules |
| Self-Certification | No inspections for 3 years (6 labour + 3 env laws) | Startup India Action Plan |
| Seed Fund | Up to ₹50L through incubators | SISFS |
| Fund of Funds | ₹10,000 Cr through SIDBI-backed AIFs | FFS |
DPIIT Recognition Application Process
- Step 1: Register at startupindia.gov.in and create account
- Step 2: Fill recognition application with entity details, CIN/LLPIN, incorporation date
- Step 3: Upload Certificate of Incorporation and write-up of innovation (1–2 paragraphs)
- Step 4: Submit — DPIIT processes within 2–5 working days, no fee charged
- Step 5: Receive recognition certificate with unique Startup India recognition number
- Step 6: For 80-IAC tax benefit, apply separately to Inter-Ministerial Board with audited financials
Startup India vs MSME/Udyam — Which to Get?
| Parameter | Startup India (DPIIT) | MSME (Udyam) |
|---|---|---|
| Eligibility | < 10 years, < ₹100Cr TO, innovation | Investment & turnover based |
| Entity Types | Pvt Ltd, LLP, Partnership only | All including sole prop |
| Tax Benefit | 80-IAC: 3 years 100% profit exemption | No direct tax benefit |
| Lending | Fund of Funds (indirect) | CGTMSE, priority lending |
| Procurement | Public procurement exemption | 25% govt procurement reserved |
| Registration Fee | Free | Free |
| Recommendation | Get BOTH — they are complementary, not exclusive | |
Need startup advisory? Our CAs handle DPIIT recognition, 80-IAC applications, Seed Fund applications, and complete startup compliance. Talk to a CA today →
