Change Your Company Name with MCA Approval

The complete name change process typically takes 15-20 working days. This includes: Name availability check and reservation via RUN form (1-2 days), Board Meeting and EGM scheduling (7-10 days including notice period), Filing of MGT-14 and INC-24 (1 day), MCA processing and approval (5-7 days). After receiving the new Certificate of Incorporation, additional time is needed for PAN/TAN and bank account updates.

The new name must: 1) Be unique and not identical or similar to any existing company or LLP, 2) Not violate any registered trademark, 3) Not use generic words like 'Bank', 'Insurance', 'Stock Exchange' without regulatory approval, 4) Include the appropriate suffix (Private Limited, Limited, LLP) based on entity type, 5) Not be misleading or offensive, 6) Include a distinctive element - not just descriptive words. We help check availability and guide you through naming guidelines.

No, your Corporate Identification Number (CIN) remains the same after a name change. The CIN is the permanent identity of your company. Only the name in the CIN changes while the number stays identical. This ensures business continuity - all contracts, bank accounts, and legal obligations remain valid with the new name. You receive a new Certificate of Incorporation reflecting the changed name but the same CIN.

After receiving your new Certificate of Incorporation, you must update: 1) PAN Card with Income Tax Department, 2) TAN for TDS purposes, 3) GST Registration, 4) Bank accounts in all banks, 5) EPF/ESI registrations, 6) Import-Export Code (IEC), 7) Professional Tax registration, 8) Trade licenses and municipal registrations, 9) Utility connections (if in company name), 10) All printed stationery, letterheads, and signages.

Yes, changing the company name requires approval through a Special Resolution passed by shareholders. The resolution requires: 1) At least 75% majority vote of shareholders present and voting, 2) An Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM) with 21 days notice (short notice allowed with consent), 3) Filing of MGT-14 within 30 days of passing the resolution. The resolution must specifically mention the old name and the new proposed name.

Yes, LLPs can also change their names following a similar process. The steps are: 1) Check name availability through RUN-LLP form, 2) Pass resolution by designated partners, 3) Obtain consent from all partners, 4) File Form 5 (Notice of Change of Name) with MCA, 5) Receive new Certificate of Incorporation. The LLP remains the same legal entity with the same LLPIN. PAN, TAN, and bank accounts must be updated similarly.

If your proposed name is rejected, MCA provides reasons such as: similarity to existing company, trademark conflict, or not meeting naming guidelines. You can: 1) Submit a fresh RUN application with alternative names, 2) Modify the proposed name to address objections, 3) Obtain NOC from existing company if names are similar, 4) Get trademark owner consent if there's a conflict. Our package includes guidance on selecting names with higher approval chances.

There are no specific legal restrictions on the frequency of name changes. However: 1) Each change requires full compliance process including EGM and MCA filings, 2) Frequent changes may raise questions from regulators and banks, 3) Significant costs are involved each time (government fees, professional fees, stationery updates), 4) Business continuity and brand recognition may be affected. We recommend choosing a name you'll be satisfied with for the long term.

All existing contracts remain valid after a name change as the company remains the same legal entity (same CIN). You should: 1) Inform all parties about the name change, 2) Execute addendums to update the name in important contracts, 3) Update standing instructions with banks and vendors, 4) Inform government authorities and update registrations. The company is not required to re-execute contracts - continuity is maintained under the new name.

MCA generally does not approve name changes for companies with active compliance defaults. You should: 1) File all pending annual returns (AOC-4, MGT-7), 2) Complete any pending DIR-3 KYC for directors, 3) Clear any other MCA default or charge-related filings, 4) Pay any additional fees for delayed filings. We can first help you achieve compliance status before proceeding with the name change application.