Section 23 of The Registration Act, 1908
Subject to the provisions contained in sections 24, 25 and 26, no document other than a will shall be accepted for registration unless presented for that purpose to the proper officer within four months from the date of its execution: Provided that a copy a of a decree or order may be presented within four months from the day on which the decree or order was made, or, where it is appealable, within four months from the day on which it becomes final.
Summary
- Most documents must be presented for registration within a strict period of four months.
- This four month countdown begins on the day the document was signed or executed.
- Wills are the only type of document that are not subject to this four month deadline.
- For court decrees or orders, the four month period starts on the day the order was made.
- If a court order can be appealed, the deadline starts from the day it becomes final.
Practical examples
FAQ
1. What is the general deadline for registration under Section 23 of The Registration Act, 1908?
The general deadline is four months from the date the document was executed or signed.
2. Does a will have a presentation deadline according to Section 23 of the 1908 Act?
No, Section 23 specifically says "no document other than a will," meaning wills are exempt from this timeline.
3. When does the clock start for a court order under Section 23 of the 1908 registration law?
It starts on the day the decree or order was made, or when it becomes final if it was appealable.
Test yourself
Q1.Under Section 23 of The Registration Act, 1908, how long do you have to present a standard contract for registration?
Q2.Which document is specifically excluded from the time limits in Section 23 of The Registration Act, 1908?
Q3.Under Section 23 of the 1908 Act, if a court decree is appealable, when does the registration window begin?
Q4.What is the starting point for the registration deadline of a sale deed under Section 23 of the 1908 law?