10 Advantages of Incorporating a Company

Rules for Selecting Company Name Under the Companies Act

When you select a company name, it must comply with the Companies Act to ensure uniqueness and legal approval. Here are the key rules to follow:

Avoid Similar or Identical Names

Your company name must not closely resemble an already registered business. The ROC conducts a company name check, and if the proposed name is found to be too similar to an existing one, it will be rejected. For example, if "GreenTech Solutions Pvt Ltd" is already registered, "GreenTech Solution Pvt Ltd" may be rejected due to similarity.

Restriction on Certain Words

You cannot use words that suggest a connection with the Central or State Government, local authorities, or government bodies, unless prior approval is obtained. For instance, names like "India National Bank Ltd" or "Government Infrastructure Pvt Ltd" require special permissions.

Prohibited Expressions

Some words and expressions are restricted under Rule 8B of the Incorporation Rules. You must seek approval from the Central Government before using them in your LLP or company name.

Mandatory Suffix for Entity Type

The company name must clearly indicate its legal structure.

• A One Person Company (OPC) should have "(OPC) Private Limited" in its name.
  
• A Private Company must include "Private Limited" (Pvt Ltd).
  
• A Public Company must end with "Limited" (Ltd).
  

A Brief About Acceptable Name for LLP

An acceptable LLP or company name in India consists of three key components. The Name Part that gives the business a unique identity, such as "Bright" in Bright Solutions LLP. The Object Part that reflects the company's activity, like "Solutions" indicating a service-based business. The Constitution Part that defines the legal structure, such as "LLP" in Bright Solutions LLP.

Name Part

The Name Part is the unique and distinguishable element of a company or LLP name. It must comply with the Companies Act 2013 or the LLP Act 2008 and should not be identical or deceptively similar to existing companies, LLPs, or registered trademarks within the same industry. The ROC verifies the name to ensure distinctiveness and prevent duplication.

For example, a name like Bluewave Technologies LLP is acceptable because it is unique and clearly identifiable. However, Bluewave Tech LLP may be rejected as it closely resembles an existing name. Similarly, GreenVista Textiles Private Limited is a valid name, but Green Vista Private Limited may be considered too similar to an existing business and could face rejection. Ensuring a distinct name that does not match or closely resemble an existing company improves the chances of approval.

Object Part

The Object Part in a company or LLP name defines its primary business activity. It must be clearly stated to indicate the company's purpose and ensure compliance with naming regulations.

If two companies have similar name parts but different object parts, both names may still be approved, as long as they belong to distinct industries. However, names without a clear object part or with generic words like "dash Private Limited" are too vague and may be rejected by the ROC because it does not specify what the company does.

Related Read: Difference Between LLP and Partnership

Examples of Common Object Parts in Company and LLP Names

Constitution Part

The Constitution Part indicates the legal structure of the business. It must match the type of entity being registered, ensuring clarity in compliance and business operations. Here are the specific terms which are used for different entities:

• Private Limited Company (Pvt Ltd) - For privately held businesses
  
• One Person Company (OPC) - For single-owner companies
  
• Limited Company (Ltd) - For publicly listed businesses
  
• Limited Liability Partnership (LLP) - For partnership-based entities with limited liability
  

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Minimum Authorised Capital For Certain Words

When registering a company, using specific words in its name requires meeting minimum authorised capital requirements as per the Companies Act 2013. Words like "Corporation," "International," and "Industries" have higher capital requirements to ensure that only financially strong businesses use them. This helps maintain credibility and prevents misuse of these terms by companies with limited resources.

Before you apply to register a company name, verifying the capital requirements is essential to ensure compliance and avoid rejection. The table below outlines the required minimum authorised capital for specific words:

When Will Companies House Refuse to Register a Company Name?

Companies House may reject a name if it does not comply with legal guidelines. Below are the key reasons why a company name may be refused:

• Identical or Too Similar to an Existing Name: If the proposed name is the same or closely resembles an already registered company, it will be rejected.
  
• Offensive or Illegal Names: Any name containing offensive, abusive, or illegal terms will not be approved.
  
• Implying Government Affiliation: Names suggesting an association with the government, public authorities, or international organisations require special approval.
  
• Use of Sensitive Words or Symbols: Certain words, such as "Royal," "Bank," or "Trust," require prior consent before use.
  
• Misleading Use of Business Terms: Using terms like "Limited" (Ltd.), "Public Limited Company" (PLC), or "LLP" incorrectly or misleadingly can lead to rejection.
  

Objections to Company Names

Even after registration, objections to a LLP or company name may arise if it does not comply with legal requirements. Ensuring that the name is unique and non-misleading is crucial to avoiding disputes. Common reasons for objections include:

• Too Similar to an Existing Business: If a company name closely resembles another registered entity, the affected business can file an objection.
  
• Misleading Information During Registration: If false or inaccurate details were provided while registering the name, objections may be raised.
  
• Failure to Meet Registration Conditions: A name that does not adhere to naming regulations or lacks necessary approvals may face challenges.
  
• Opportunistic Registration: If a name is registered to take advantage of another company’s goodwill, it can be legally disputed.
  

Related Read: How much does an LLP cost in India?

How to Check Company Name Availability Online?

Before registering a company, you must check whether the proposed name is available to avoid rejection. The Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) portal provides an online tool to verify company name availability. Here’s a step-by-step guide to checking a company name online:

1. Visit the MCA Website: Go to www.mca.gov.in.
2. Access the Name Availability Tool: Under the ‘MCA Services’ section, select ‘For Services’ from the drop-down menu and then select ‘Check Company/LLP Name’.
3. Enter the Proposed Name: Type the desired company name in the search box and click on the ‘Search’ button.
4. Review the Results: The portal will indicate whether the name is available or already registered.

Additional Checks for Better Approval Chances

• Trademark Search: Use the Razorpay Rize Name Search Tool to check for potential trademark conflicts.
• Alternative Name Options: Verify multiple name options to avoid rejection and ensure compliance with naming rules.

Conclusion

Choosing the right company or LLP name is crucial for legal compliance and brand identity. Ensure the name is unique, relevant, and adheres to MCA guidelines to avoid objections. Conduct a thorough name availability check on the MCA portal and verify potential trademark conflicts before finalising a name. A well-chosen name not only simplifies registration but also builds a strong brand identity while ensuring long-term legal compliance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is One Person Company (OPC)?

A One Person Company (OPC) is a company structure in India that allows a single individual to establish a business with limited liability. It provides the benefits of a corporate entity while retaining the simplicity of sole ownership.

Unlike a sole proprietorship, an OPC is a separate legal entity. This means it can own assets, enter into contracts, and protect the owner's personal assets from business liabilities.

OPCs operate under regulatory requirements similar to private limited companies but are tailored for single ownership. Additionally, the member must appoint a nominee to take over the business in case of the owner's incapacity or death.

What is Sole Proprietorship?

A sole proprietorship is a simple business structure, where the business is owned and managed by one individual. This makes it ideal for small businesses or individual entrepreneurs. The meaning of a sole proprietor is essentially someone who is the sole beneficiary of all business profits and is personally liable for any debts incurred by the business. There is no particular Sole Proprietorship Act in India. 

Unlike a One Person Company, a sole proprietorship does not separate the business entity from the owner. This means that all legal, financial and operational responsibilities rest with the proprietor, who has full control over decision-making and retains all profits.

Operating as a sole proprietor allows for flexibility and ease in starting or closing a business. There are minimal regulatory formalities, although certain licences may be required for specific sectors, like medical or food services. 

One Person Company vs Sole Proprietorship

Here is a detailed analysis of the difference between sole proprietorship and one person company:

Sole Proprietorship Advantages and Disadvantages

Advantages of Sole Proprietorship

Quick Decision-Making

With full control, the sole proprietor can make prompt decisions, aiding responsiveness and agility in business operations.

Confidentiality

All business information remains private to the owner, enhancing operational discretion.

Ease of Formation and Low Costs

Starting a sole proprietorship involves fewer legal requirements, keeping setup costs low.

Direct Incentives

The owner retains all profits, providing direct motivation for business success.

Disadvantages of Sole Proprietorship

Unlimited Liability

The proprietor’s personal assets can be used to cover business debts, increasing financial risk.

Limited Access to Capital

Raising funds can be challenging, as sole proprietors often rely on personal savings or small loans.

Lack of Business Continuity

The business may end with the owner's incapacity, death or insolvency, impacting long-term stability.

Limited Specialisation

Managing all aspects of the business alone can hinder growth and focus on key areas.

One Person Company (OPC) Advantages and Disadvantages

Advantages of One Person Company

Limited Liability

The owner's liability is limited to the capital invested, safeguarding personal assets from business debts.

Separate Legal Entity

Being legally distinct enhances the company's credibility and professionalism.

Tax Benefits

OPCs enjoy certain tax benefits, such as lower rates and deductions on business expenses.

Single Ownership with Control

The owner retains full control over operations, simplifying decision-making.

Disadvantages of One Person Company

Limited Funding Options

OPCs cannot raise funds from the public, which may restrict growth opportunities.

Compliance Requirements

Annual filings, account maintenance and meetings are required, adding to operational tasks.

Nominee Requirement

The need for a nominee can be limiting for owners wanting complete control.

Naming Restrictions

"One Person Company" must be part of the company’s name, reducing flexibility in branding.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Difference Between Limited Liability Partnership and Private Limited Company

The fundamental difference between a Pvt Ltd and an LLP lies in ownership and management. While a Pvt Ltd company is governed by shareholders (owners) and directors (managers), an LLP is managed by partners who own and operate the business. Additionally, compliance requirements, taxation and funding options differ significantly between the two.

Here is a table outlining the difference between LLP and a private limited Company:

While the differences between LLPs and Private Limited Companies are numerous, they share similarities in key aspects:

• Limited Liability
• Separate Legal Identity
• Registration Process with the MCA
• Perpetual Succession

Let’s understand the key features and registration process in detail for both Private limited companies and LLPs.

What is a Private Limited Company?

A Private Limited Company (Pvt Ltd) is a privately held business entity that operates under the legal framework of the Companies Act of 2013 in India (or similar laws in other countries). It combines the benefits of limited liability protection for its shareholders with certain restrictions to maintain its private nature.

This structure is popular among startups and small to medium-sized enterprises due to its ability to attract investments while offering limited liability protection and operational flexibility.

Features of Pvt Ltd Company

Listing down some key advantages of a Private Limited Company below:

1. Limited Liability

The liability of Shareholders is limited. Personal assets are generally protected from business debts.

2. Separate Legal Entity

A Private Limited Company is considered a distinct legal entity from its owners (shareholders). It can enter into contracts, own property, and sue or be sued in its own name.

3. Ownership

Owned by shareholders who hold shares in the company. Transfer of ownership is facilitated through the buying and selling of shares.

4. Management

Managed by directors who are appointed by the shareholders. The day-to-day operations are overseen by the management team, while major decisions are often subject to shareholder approval.

5. Number of Shareholders

Requires a minimum of two shareholders and can have a maximum of 200 shareholders.

6. Regulation and Compliance

Governed by the Companies Act and regulated by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs in India. Compliance includes filing annual financial statements, conducting annual general meetings and maintaining statutory records.

7. Investment and Funding

Easier to attract investment and funding compared to other business structures due to the well-defined ownership structure and limited liability.

8. Perpetual Succession

The company continues to exist even if its shareholders or directors in private limited company change, retire, or pass away. Ownership can be transferred seamlessly through the sale of shares.

Private Limited Company Registration

The Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) has introduced a streamlined process for incorporating companies called the Simplified Proforma for Incorporating Company Electronically Plus (SPICe+). It consists of two parts: Part A and Part B.

1. Step 1: Acquire a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)

• A Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) is a digital method of verifying or attesting documents.
• It is typically issued with one or two-year validity and is mandatory for all witnesses in the Memorandum of Association (MOA) and Articles of Association (AOA).
• Class 2 or 3 DSCs can be obtained through listed Government Certifying Agencies (CAs).

2. Step 2: Apply for Name Approval using SPICe+ Part A

• Part A facilitates 'Name Reservation' with two proposed names and one re-submission (RSUB).
• In case of name rejection due to various reasons, a re-filing with the specified fee is required.

Note: Simultaneous application for name approval (Part A) and Incorporation (Part B) through SPICe+ is possible, but only one name can be reserved.

3. Step 3: Apply for Company Registration using SPICe+ Part B

After name approval, Part B completes the registration process, including:

• • Application for allotment of Director Identification Number (DIN)
  • Incorporation of the new company
  • Submission of e-MoA (INC-33) and e-AoA (INC-34)
  • Application for PAN and TAN (mandatory)
  • Application for EPFO registration (mandatory)
  • Application for ESIC registration (mandatory)
  • Application for Professional tax registration (only for Maharashtra)

The entered information in SPICe+ Parts A and B is automatically transferred to associated forms like AGILE-PRO, eAoA, eMoA, URC1, and INC-9, as applicable.

4. Step 4: Open a Bank Account

Open a current account for your company to facilitate seamless financial transactions and business operations, handling various aspects such as receiving payments, making supplier payments and managing payroll.

5. Step 5: File for the Commencement of Business Certificate

The Commencement of Business Certificate, filed through Form INC-20A within 180 days of incorporation, is a declaration by the Director of the Company submitted to the Registrar of Companies.

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After the SPICe+ Form receives approval, the Registrar of Companies (ROC) issues the Certificate of Incorporation, confirming the successful registration of your company.

This certificate includes vital information such as the Company's name, registration number (CIN), date of incorporation, registered office address, and so on.

Example of CIN: U72200KA2013PTC097389

Read more about what each letter in a CIN signifies here.

What is a Limited Liability Partnership?

A Limited Liability Partnership (LLP) is a business structure combining features of a traditional partnership and a limited company.

Limited Liability Partnerships are often chosen by professional services firms, small businesses and ventures where the partners want the flexibility of a partnership along with the protection of limited liability.

Features of LLP

A Limited Liability Partnership (LLP) is a business structure that combines features of both a traditional partnership and a limited company. Limited Liability Partnerships are often chosen by professional services firms, small businesses, and ventures where the partners want the flexibility of a partnership along with the protection of limited liability.

Some key characteristics of a Limited Liability Partnership are:

1. Limited Liability

Similar to a private limited company, partners in an LLP have limited liability.

2. Separate Legal Entity

An LLP is a distinct legal entity from its partners. It can own property, enter into contracts, and sue or be sued in its own name.

3. Ownership

Owned by partners, and the ownership structure is defined by the LLP agreement. Transfer of ownership usually requires the consent of other partners.

4. Management

Managed by partners or a designated management team, as specified in the LLP agreement. Each partner typically has an equal say in the management decisions, making it a more collaborative structure.

5. Number of Partners

Requires a minimum of two partners, and there is no maximum limit on the number of partners in an LLP.

6. Regulation and Compliance

Governed by the Limited Liability Partnership Act in India, with less stringent regulatory requirements compared to a private limited company. Compliance involves filing annual returns and maintaining statutory records.

7. Flexibility

Offers greater flexibility in terms of internal management and decision-making processes compared to a private limited company.

Limited Liability Partnerships Registration

Here's a simplified guide on the steps for Limited Liability Partnership (LLP) registration:

1. Step 1: Apply for DSC

• Obtain a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) from Government Certifying Agencies with one or two-year validity.

2. Step 2: Name Reservation

• Reserve the LLP's name using the LLP-RUN form.

3. Step 3: Apply for Registration through FiLLiP

• Complete the FiLLiP (Form for Incorporation of Limited Liability Partnership) and submit it to the Registrar. Alongside FiLLiP, submit the Subscriber sheet and Partner's consent (Form 9) as additional documentation.

4. Step 4: File LLP Agreement

• File the LLP Agreement using Form 3 on the MCA portal within 30 days of LLP registration.

After the FiLLiP Form receives approval, the Registrar of Companies (ROC) issues the Certificate of Incorporation, a crucial legal document confirming the successful registration of your company.

This certificate includes vital information such as the LLP's name, registration number (LLPIN), date of incorporation, registered office address, and more.

Example of LLPIN: AAA-1234

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LLP vs Pvt Ltd Ownership

• Shareholders vs. Partners
  • Pvt Ltd Ownership: Shareholders own the company but may not be involved in day-to-day management. Primarily managed by Directors.
  • LLP Ownership: Partners typically manage the business and have a direct role in decision-making.
• Transfer of Ownership
  • Pvt Ltd: Shares can be easily transferred from private limited company members, making it simpler to onboard or exit shareholders.
  • LLP: Ownership transfer requires the consent of other partners, which can be complex.

LLP vs Pvt Ltd Compliance

• Compliance for Private Limited Companies
  • Hold the First Meeting of the Board of Directors within 30 days of the Incorporation of the Company. It is compulsory to host four meetings in a year with a gap not more than 120 days.
  • Hold an Annual General Meeting every year, on or before September 30^th, during business hours and in the registered office.
  • Appoint the company's first auditor within 30 days of incorporation, who will serve until the end of the first AGM.
  • File Form ADT 1 within 15 days of the appointment of the subsequent auditor.
  • File Annual Returns (AOC 4 and MGT 7) within 30 and 60 days of holding the AGM, respectively.
  • File Form ITR-6 for Income Tax Return annually.
  • File Form DIR-3 KYC to disclose details of the Directors.
• Compliance for Limited Liability Partnerships
  • File an LLP agreement within 30 days of incorporation. The penalty of ₹100/day will be levied if an LLP fails to comply with this condition.
  • File the form DIR3 for the DIN allotment in case of an existing company.
  • File two annual statements for Annual Return and Statement of Accounts and Solvency using Forms 11 and 8, respectively.
  • Sign, verify and file the Income Tax Return (ITR) annually.
  • Depending on their shareholding capacity, you and your partner must deposit their contribution into the relevant bank account within the specified time frame.
  • Get a GST registration since it is a legal compulsion per the GST Act.
  • Audit your accounts through CAs if the company's annual turnover exceeds Rs 40 lakhs or the contribution surpasses ₹25 lakhs of the threshold limit.
  For businesses that prefer a simpler and cost-effective compliance framework, LLPs are the better option. With fewer regulatory requirements, LLPs reduce the administrative burden, making them ideal for small businesses, professional firms and startups not seeking external funding. However, for companies planning rapid growth, attracting investors or requiring a formal structure for credibility, Pvt Ltd companies are worth the added compliance effort.

LLP vs Pvt Ltd Funding

• Equity Financing
  • Pvt Ltd Company funding: Easily attracts investors by issuing shares, making it suitable for startups seeking venture capital or private equity.
  • LLP funding: Equity financing is not possible since partners cannot issue shares.
• Debt Financing
  • Both structures can access loans, but Pvt Ltd companies have additional options like issuing debentures or convertible notes.

LLP vs Pvt Ltd Foreign Direct Investment (FDI)

• Pvt Ltd Company funding: Easily attracts investors by issuing shares, making it suitable for startups seeking venture capital or private equity.
• LLP: FDI in LLP is allowed only in sectors where 100% FDI is permitted and is subject to approval in other cases, making it less flexible.

LLP vs Pvt Ltd Taxation

• Taxation for Pvt Ltd CompaniesIncome tax for Pvt Ltd companies:
  • 25% if the turnover is up to ₹400 crore (as per recent provisions).
  • 30% for larger companies.
  A cess of 4% applies to the tax amount, along with surcharges for higher income levels.
• Taxation for LLPsLLP taxation rate is 30% on their total income plus a surcharge (if applicable) and cess.Both LLPs and Pvt Ltd companies are treated equally under the GST regime:
  • GST registration is mandatory for businesses with annual turnover exceeding ₹20 lakhs (₹40 lakhs for goods in some states).
  • Compliance includes filing monthly or quarterly GST returns, depending on turnover.

Company Registration with Razorpay Rize

You can experience a hassle-free, 100% online business registration process with Razorpay Rize, featuring the lowest professional fees and absolutely no hidden charges.

Explore the diverse range of services tailored to suit the needs of both startups and established businesses.

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Our package includes:

• Company Name Registration
• 2 Digital Signature Certificates (DSCs)
• 2 Directors’ Identification Numbers (DINs)
• Certificate of Incorporation(COI)
• MoA & AoA [Applicable for Private Limited Companies and OPCs]
• LLP Agreement [Applicable for LLPs]
• Company PAN & TAN

*Prices and documents can differ based on the company type.

Which Company Type Should You Register Your Business With?

Before proceeding with the registration of either an LLP or a company, it is crucial to evaluate the following factors carefully.

• Consider the nature and size of your business

• If you operate a small business with a limited workforce, opting for LLP registration might be more favourable, given the relatively lighter compliance requirements compared to a company. On the other hand, for larger businesses with substantial employee numbers and capital needs, registering as a company provides greater flexibility in raising capital.

• Fundraising requirements

• If your goal is to raise funds through equity, choosing a company structure is imperative. However, if your fundraising needs are more straightforward, the LLP structure may be a more suitable option.

• Tax rates

• It's essential to compare the tax rates applicable to both company and LLP structures, as there can be significant differences. Opt for the structure that aligns with your financial goals based on total income or turnover.

• Personal liability protection

• While an LLP offers limited liability protection, a company structure treats the company as a distinct legal entity, safeguarding shareholders' personal assets.

Ultimately, the choice between a company structure and an LLP structure hinges on the unique characteristics of your business, including its nature, size, and capital requirements.

Find Your Ideal Company Type

If you still need more help deciding which company type to register with, don't worry! We’ve got you covered with our latest tool - "Know Your Company Type."

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For the first time in India, simply answer a quick set of questions about your startup, and this tool will leverage your responses to identify the ideal company registration type. Find your perfect fit with just one click!

Explore side-by-side comparisons of popular company types for added clarity and make informed choices effortlessly!

Frequently Asked Questions