An NPO is a trust, corporation, or other association of individuals that is created for the benefit of the public. In exchange for services rendered to the organization, the income and property of these organizations are not distributable to members or office bearers, with the exception of reasonable compensation. In accordance with the NPO Act, NPOs are obligated to undergo registration with the Department of Social Development and SARS as taxpayers. By satisfying the necessary criteria, NPOs may submit an application for certification as tax-exempt institutions (see PBO below). NGO is an international abbreviation for a non-governmental organization, which denotes a voluntary organization or establishment with a social mission that functions autonomously from governmental oversight. While not necessarily synonymous, an entity resembling an NGO may also be referred to as a charity, non-profit organization (NPO), voluntary organization, or non-profit organization (NPO). A public benefit organisation (PBO) can be a trust, a corporation (NPC or NPO), or another organization registered with the South African Revenue Service (SARS) in accordance with Section 30(1) of the Income Tax Act, No. 58 of 1962. The South African Revenue Service grants tax-exempt status to non-profit organizations; this status is referred to as “Public Benefit Organisation” (“PBO”) status. PBO status will, in addition to enabling the organization to reduce its tax liability, provide specific tax advantages to third parties who make donations to the organization.