Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)

Mar 27, 2024
Private Limited Company vs. Limited Liability Partnerships

A Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) is a secure digital key issued by a trusted authority, known as a Certificate Authority (CA), that is used to authenticate the identity of individuals, organizations, or devices in the digital world.

It is a digital equivalent of a handwritten signature or a stamped seal, providing assurance of the signer's identity and the integrity of the signed document or message. In general, a DSC includes details such as name, postal code, country, email address, certificate issuance date, and the name of the certifying authority.

In this blog, we'll explore the significance of DSCs, the process of applying for them in India, and their key features.

Table of Contents

Importance of a Digital Signature Certificate

The importance of a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) lies in its ability to provide strong authentication, integrity, and proper encryptions in digital transactions and communications.

Importance of a Digital Signature Certificate in India

Here are several key reasons why DSCs are important and why you should apply for one as a founder:

1. Authentication

  • DSCs verify the identity of individuals, organizations, or devices involved in digital transactions, ensuring that the sender is who they claim to be.

2. Integrity

  • Digital signatures created using DSCs ensure the integrity of electronic documents or messages by detecting any unauthorized changes or tampering.

3. Security

  • DSCs use strong cryptographic techniques to protect sensitive information and prevent unauthorized access.

4. Legal Recognition

  • In India, many industries and regulatory frameworks require the use of DSCs for specific types of transactions or communications to comply with security and privacy regulations.

5. Government Services

  • DSCs play an important role in the company registration process irrespective of the company type. Accessing government services, filing tax returns, or participating in e-tendering processes require digital signatures for authentication and authorization.

6. Efficiency

  • DSCs streamline digital workflows by enabling secure and paperless transactions without the physical presence.

Overall, DSCs offer numerous benefits, including enhanced security, legal validity, efficiency, and cost savings, making them indispensable for digital transactions and communications

Different Classes of Digital Signature Certificates (DSCs)

Certifying authorities issue 3 types of DSCs to accommodate various needs and purposes.The type of applicant and the intended use of the Digital Signature Certificate determine the specific kind of DSC that should be sought based on the requirements.

Class 1 DSC:

  • These certificates are issued for individuals or private users and are primarily used for email communication and basic transactions.
  • Verification requirements are minimal, typically involving email validation or verification of basic personal information.

Class 2 DSC:

  • Class 2 certificates are used for both individual and organizational purposes and offer a higher level of security and trust compared to Class 1.
  • To obtain a Class 2 DSC, the applicant's identity is verified against a trusted government-issued identity document, such as a passport or driver's license.

Class 3 DSC:

  • Class 3 certificates provide the highest level of security and are typically used for online transactions involving high-value financial transactions, e-commerce, and government applications.
  • The verification process for Class 3 DSCs involves rigorous identity verification procedures, including in-person verification and submission of supporting documents.

Certifying Authorities in India

Certifying Agencies are designated by the office of the Controller of Certification Agencies (CCA) in accordance with the provisions of the IT Act, 2000. Currently, there are eight Certification Agencies authorized by the CCA to issue Digital Signature Certificates (DSCs).

Major DSC Certifying Authorities in India

Format of a Digital Signature Certificate

A DSC typically contains the following components:

1. Public Key

  • A cryptographic key that is made publicly available and used to verify digital signatures created by the corresponding private key.

2. Private Key

  • A secret key that is securely held by the owner and used to create digital signatures for documents or messages.

3. Certificate Information

  • Details about the certificate, including the issuer (Certifying Authority), the validity period, a unique identifier, the subject (owner), and the digital signature of the CA to confirm its authenticity.

4. Digital Signature

  • A unique digital signature generated using the private key of the certificate, which can be verified using the corresponding public key.

The format of a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) can vary depending on the issuing Certificate Authority (CA) and the type and class of the certificate.

Documents required for obtaining a Digital Signature Certificate

The documents required for obtaining a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) include:

  • Proof of Identity: Copy of any one of the following government-issued identity documents attested by a Gazetted officer:
    • Passport
    • Aadhaar Card
    • PAN Card
    • Voter ID Card
  • Proof of Address: Copy of any one of the following documents showing the applicant's residential address attested by a Gazetted officer:
    • Utility bill (electricity, water, gas, telephone)
    • Bank statement
    • Rent agreement
  • Passport Size Photograph: Recent passport-size color photograph of the applicant.
  • Self-attested Copy of PAN Card: A self-attested photocopy of the applicant's PAN Card.
  • Organization Documents (if applicable):For organizations, additional documents such as the Certificate of Incorporation, Memorandum of Association (MOA), Articles of Association (AOA), or Partnership Deed may be required.

It's important to note that the specific documents required may vary depending on the type of Digital Signature Certificate (e.g., Class 1, Class 2, Class 3), the Certification Authority (CA) issuing the certificate, and the purpose for which the certificate is being obtained.

How to apply for a Digital Signature Certificate?

Razorpay Rize simplifies this process by streamlining e-filing on the MCA portal (company registration process), and as part of the package, you can acquire 2 Digital Signature Certificates for the involved directors/partners.

Note: It's necessary to obtain a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) of either the Class 2 or Class 3 signing certificate category issued by a licensed Certifying Authority (CA) to facilitate e-filing on the MCA Portal for company registration processes.

Alternatively, you also have the option to apply for DSCs through designated certifying agencies through the following steps.

  • Choose a Certifying Authority (CA) accredited by the Controller of Certification Agencies (CCA) under the provisions of the IT Act, 2000.
  • Determine the type and class of DSC required based on your needs and the level of security required (e.g., Class 1, Class 2, Class 3).
  • Gather the necessary documents, including proof of identity, proof of address, passport-size photograph, self-attested copy of PAN card, and any organization-related documents (if applicable).
  • Obtain and fill out the DSC application form provided by the chosen Certifying Authority. Fill in the necessary details like the Class of the DSC, validity, type, applicant name and details, residential address, etc.
  • Undergo the identity verification process as per the CA's requirements, which may involve in-person verification or online verification, depending on the type of DSC and the CA's policies.
  • Pay the prescribed fees.
  • Upon successful verification and payment, the Certifying Authority will generate a unique key pair consisting of a public key and a corresponding private key.
  • Once the key pair is generated, the Certifying Authority will issue the Digital Signature Certificate.
  • Install the DSC on the appropriate device or token as per the CA's instructions.

Validity of the Digital Signature Certificate

Digital Signature Certificates (DSCs) are commonly issued with either a one-year validity or a two-year validity period.

These certificates can be renewed upon expiry of the initial validity period. Renewal procedures typically involve submitting updated documentation and undergoing identity verification processes, similar to the initial application process.

Fees for the Digital Signature Certificate in India

If you’re registering your business with Razorpay Rize, DSCs are commonly included in the package regardless of the company type.

In the case of direct applications, the fees include various components, including the one-time cost of the medium (such as a USB token), the Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) issuance cost, the renewal cost after the validity period expires, and the support costs (if any).

The costs, as mentioned on the MCA website, are as follows-

Certifying Authority Cost of DSC with one-year validity,
excluding USB token cost & Taxes
Cost of DSC with two-year validity,
excluding USB token cost & Taxes
MTNL CA Rs. 300/- (for MTNL phone subscribers) and Rs. 450/- for others Rs. 400/- (for MTNL phone subscribers) and Rs. 600/- for others
TCS Rs. 1245 (Inclusive of 12.24% Sales Tax.) Rs. 1900/- (Inclusive of 12.24% Sales Tax)
IDBRT Rs. 750/- (Rs. 500/- towards administrative expenses and Rs. 250/- for Certificate) Rs. 1500/-
SAFESCRYPT Rs. 995/- Rs. 1650/-
NIC NIL for Government Rs. 150/- for PSU, Autonomous & Statutory Bodies NIL for Government Rs. 150/- for PSU, Autonomous & Statutory Bodies
Central Excise and Customs NA NA
e-Mudhra Rs. 899/- Rs. 1149/-

Frequently Asked Questions

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Private Limited Company
(Pvt. Ltd.)

1,499 + Govt. Fee
BEST SUITED FOR
  • Service-based businesses
  • Businesses looking to issue shares
  • Businesses seeking investment through equity-based funding


Limited Liability Partnership
(LLP)

1,499 + Govt. Fee
BEST SUITED FOR
  • Professional services 
  • Firms seeking any capital contribution from Partners
  • Firms sharing resources with limited liability 

One Person Company
(OPC)

1,499 + Govt. Fee
BEST SUITED FOR
  • Freelancers, Small-scale businesses
  • Businesses looking for minimal compliance
  • Businesses looking for single-ownership

Private Limited Company
(Pvt. Ltd.)

1,499 + Govt. Fee
BEST SUITED FOR
  • Service-based businesses
  • Businesses looking to issue shares
  • Businesses seeking investment through equity-based funding


One Person Company
(OPC)

1,499 + Govt. Fee
BEST SUITED FOR
  • Freelancers, Small-scale businesses
  • Businesses looking for minimal compliance
  • Businesses looking for single-ownership

Private Limited Company
(Pvt. Ltd.)

1,499 + Govt. Fee
BEST SUITED FOR
  • Service-based businesses
  • Businesses looking to issue shares
  • Businesses seeking investment through equity-based funding


Limited Liability Partnership
(LLP)

1,499 + Govt. Fee
BEST SUITED FOR
  • Professional services 
  • Firms seeking any capital contribution from Partners
  • Firms sharing resources with limited liability 

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a difference between a digital signature and a DSC?

Yes, a digital signature refers to the cryptographic technique used to sign electronic documents, while a DSC is the digital certificate that contains a digital signature key pair and is used to verify the signer's identity.

What are the different types of DSCs valid during Company registration?

The different types of Digital Signature Certificates currently valid during company registration are class 2 and class 3 types.

Is a Director Identification Number (DIN) required to apply for DSC?

No, you can apply for a DSC without the DIN with supported documents as mentioned in the above sections

How can I check the validity of a DSC?

To check the validity of a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC), you can follow these steps:

  • Access the different USB token tools that are currently available.
  • Login & enter the token password when prompted.
  • Select your certificate name from the list.
  • Once selected, the certificate will open. Navigate to the ‘Details’ tab, where you will find comprehensive information about your certificate, including its validity details.

Related Posts

One Person Company Registration Fees in India in 2025

One Person Company Registration Fees in India in 2025

For solo entrepreneurs looking to start their own venture, a One Person Company (OPC) is an ideal business structure that offers the benefits of limited liability and complete control over the business. Understanding OPC benefits and the costs associated with registration is essential before diving into the process.

From government fees to professional charges, registering an OPC in India involves several expenses. Planning your budget can help you navigate the process smoothly and avoid unexpected costs.

In this blog, we’ll explore the various costs associated with OPC registration online in India and provide a detailed breakdown.

Table of Contents

What Does the OPC Registration Fee Include?

The OPC registration fee breakdown generally comprises the following components:

  • Government Filing Fees: Charges for submitting incorporation forms and other mandatory filings.
  • Professional Service Charges: Fees for hiring professionals like Chartered Accountants or Company Secretaries assist with registration.
  • Miscellaneous Costs: Additional expenses such as document preparation, notarisation, and obtaining licenses, if required.

OPC Registration Fees Breakdown

The OPC registration cost can be divided into several components:

Government Fees

  • Cost for filing the SPICe+ form and other mandatory forms on the MCA portal.
  • Cost of obtaining DSC for the Director.
  • Fees for obtaining the DIN
  • Depends on the authorised capital of the company; higher authorised capital attracts higher fees.

Professional Service Charges

Fees for professional assistance in preparing documents, filing forms, and ensuring compliance. It varies based on the service provider and location.

Stamp Duty Fees

Stamp duty is state-specific and varies based on the LLP’s contribution amount and the location of its registered office. On average, stamp duty can range from ₹500 to ₹5,000.

Name Reservation Fees

Reserving a unique name for your LLP costs ₹200 per application. This step ensures your chosen name complies with MCA guidelines.

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Miscellaneous Expenses

Charges for notarisation and other incidental expenses.

How Much Does OPC Registration Cost?

The overall cost of OPC registration in India typically ranges between INR 5,000 and INR 20,000, depending on various factors like professional service fees, authorised capital, and location. Government fees generally constitute a significant portion of the total cost.

Factors Affecting OPC Registration Fees

There are several factors affecting the OPC fees. Some of the OPC registration cost factors include- 

  1. Authorised Capital: Higher authorised capital increases government fees and stamp duty charges.
  2. Location: Costs may vary depending on the state due to differences in stamp duty and professional service charges.
  3. Choice of Service Provider: The fees charged by professionals or agencies can differ significantly based on their expertise and service offerings.
  4. Additional Services: Costs for optional services, such as trademark registration or GST registration, add to the total expense.

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<H2> One Person Company Registration Process

The OPC registration process involves the following key steps:

  1. Name Approval:
    • Choose a unique name for your OPC and apply for approval through the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) portal.
  2. Obtaining DSC:
    • Obtain a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) for the proposed director.
  3. Drafting Memorandum and Articles of Association:
    • Prepare the Memorandum of Association (MOA) and Articles of Association (AOA) outlining the company's objectives and rules.
  4. Submitting Documents on the MCA Portal:
    • Upload the required documents, such as identity proof, address proof, and the nominee's consent, on the MCA portal along with Form SPICe+.
  5. Incorporation Certificate:
    • Once approved, the MCA issues a Certificate of Incorporation, marking the completion of the registration process.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Register your One Person Company in just 1,499 + Govt. Fee

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Register your Business starting at just 1,499 + Govt. Fee

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Register your Limited Liability Partnership in just 1,499 + Govt. Fee

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Private Limited Company
(Pvt. Ltd.)

1,499 + Govt. Fee
BEST SUITED FOR
  • Service-based businesses
  • Businesses looking to issue shares
  • Businesses seeking investment through equity-based funding


Limited Liability Partnership
(LLP)

1,499 + Govt. Fee
BEST SUITED FOR
  • Professional services 
  • Firms seeking any capital contribution from Partners
  • Firms sharing resources with limited liability 

One Person Company
(OPC)

1,499 + Govt. Fee
BEST SUITED FOR
  • Freelancers, Small-scale businesses
  • Businesses looking for minimal compliance
  • Businesses looking for single-ownership

Private Limited Company
(Pvt. Ltd.)

1,499 + Govt. Fee
BEST SUITED FOR
  • Service-based businesses
  • Businesses looking to issue shares
  • Businesses seeking investment through equity-based funding


One Person Company
(OPC)

1,499 + Govt. Fee
BEST SUITED FOR
  • Freelancers, Small-scale businesses
  • Businesses looking for minimal compliance
  • Businesses looking for single-ownership

Private Limited Company
(Pvt. Ltd.)

1,499 + Govt. Fee
BEST SUITED FOR
  • Service-based businesses
  • Businesses looking to issue shares
  • Businesses seeking investment through equity-based funding


Limited Liability Partnership
(LLP)

1,499 + Govt. Fee
BEST SUITED FOR
  • Professional services 
  • Firms seeking any capital contribution from Partners
  • Firms sharing resources with limited liability 

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is eligible to act as a member of an OPC?

To be a member of a One Person Company (OPC), you must meet the following eligibility criteria:

  • Individual Membership: Only a natural person (not a company or organisation) can act as a member of an OPC.
  • Residency Requirement: The person must be a resident of India, meaning they have stayed there for at least 120 days during the financial year.

Citizenship: Only Indian citizens are eligible to form an OPC.

Is GST registration mandatory for an OPC?

GST registration is not mandatory for every OPC. The requirement depends on the nature of the business and its turnover:

  • Mandatory Registration: If the annual turnover exceeds ₹20 lakh (₹10 lakh for certain northeastern states) or if the business involves inter-state supply of goods or services.
  • Voluntary Registration: Even if the turnover is below the threshold, an OPC may opt for voluntary registration to claim input tax credit and expand its business operations.

What is the cost of registering an OPC?

The OPC registration charges in India can vary based on professional fees, state-specific charges, and other factors.

What is the minimum capital for an OPC company?

There is no mandatory minimum capital requirement for registering an OPC in India. However, the capital structure must be defined at the time of incorporation, and it can be as low as ₹1. The recommended authorised capital typically starts at ₹1 lakh, but this is not a compulsory requirement and depends on the founder’s business plan.

What is the turnover limit for an OPC?

An OPC can operate as long as its annual turnover does not exceed ₹2 crore and its paid-up capital does not exceed ₹50 lakh. If the turnover crosses ₹2 crore, the OPC must convert into a private limited company or a public limited company within six months of exceeding the limit.

What are the tax implications of a One Person Company?

The applicable Tax rate to the OPC would be 30% plus cess and surcharge.

Can an OPC raise funds from the public?

No, an OPC cannot raise funds from the public. Since it is a privately held entity, it is restricted from:

  • Issuing shares to the public.
  • Listing on a stock exchange.

However, OPCs can raise funds through other methods, such as loans from banks or financial institutions or by adding a new shareholder when converting to a private limited company.

Partnership Deed for Firms in India: Format, Fees, Validity

Partnership Deed for Firms in India: Format, Fees, Validity

A Partnership Deed is a legal document that outlines the rights, responsibilities, and obligations of individuals forming a partnership.

Typically drafted at the beginning of the partnership, the deed includes essential details such as the business name, purpose, and location. It also incorporates various clauses that highlight details about the partners, including aspects such as profit-loss sharing, salary, interest on capital, drawings, and the procedures for admitting a new partner.

In this blog, we’ll talk about how the Partnership Deed acts as the foundation for all partnership operations.

Table of Contents

Format of a Partnership Deed

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The format of a partnership deed may vary based on the specific requirements of the partners and the nature of the business. However, a typical partnership deed includes the following essential elements:

  • Name of the Partnership:
    The official business name under which the partnership operates is stated, along with the physical address where the primary business activities occur. This section also highlights the duration of the partnership firm alongside the date of the commencement.
  • Details of the Partners:
    This section includes the full name, address, and relevant particulars of the Individuals participating in the Partnership.
  • Purpose:
    Here, the nature and scope of the business activities conducted by the partnership is clearly stated. The firm shall have the power to fulfill the objectives of thecompany and conduct any such lawful business activities.
  • Capital Contribution:
    The total capital of the firm and the individual share contributed by each partner are to be mentioned here. The contribution can be in cash, goods, or property on agreed values.
  • Profit and Loss Sharing:
    It clearly articulates the agreed-upon ratio or percentage in which profits and losses will be distributed among the partners.
  • Financial Decisions:
    It includes information such as the partners' salary and commission, permissive drawings from the firm for each partner, the interest payable to the firm on these drawings, partnership loans, and other relevant details.
  • Admission and Retirement of Partners:
    This part outlines the criteria and process for admitting new partners into the business. Similarly, it details the procedures for the retirement or withdrawal of existing partners.
  • Dispute Resolution:
    Procedures for resolving disputes among partners are established. This may include mechanisms for mediation or arbitration to address conflicts and maintain a harmonious partnership.
  • Dissolution:
    It states the conditions and procedures for the dissolution of the partnership which highlights the distribution of assets, settlement of liabilities, and the overall process of winding up the business.
  • Witnesses and Signatures:
    The partnership deed is formally executed with the signatures of all partners, and done in the presence of witnesses.

How to draft a Partnership Deed?

A partnership deed can be a verbal or written agreement outlining the rights, responsibilities, profit-sharing, and other obligations of the partners.

While it can be recorded verbally, it is highly advisable to formalize a written partnership deed with the Registrar of Firms as it aids in resolving potential disputes. It also proves beneficial for tax purposes and ensures the formal registration of the partnership firm.

  • The Partnership Deed, formulated by the partners, must be executed on stamp paper with a minimum value of Rs. 200, as per the Indian Stamp Act.
  • Each partner should retain a copy of the partnership deed for future reference.
  • Once stamped, the Partnership deed is attached with the application to the Registrar of Firms for formal registration and legal validation.

As per the Partnership Act, Registration of Partnership Firms is optional, but if you still choose to register your firm-

The application should be accompanied by essential documents, including a duly filled affidavit, a certified true copy of the Partnership Deed, and proof of ownership or a rental/lease agreement for the main business location.

Validity of the Partnership Deed

The validity of the firm is mentioned in the deed, whether it's for a limited period, for a specific project or for an unlimited period.

Note: A partnership deed that has been notarized alone does not hold legal validity in the event of legal disputes. However, if the partnership firm is formally registered with RoF, the partnership deed will be recognized as having legal standing.

Fees for the Partnership Deed in India

The Partnership Deed must be executed on a stamp paper with a minimum value of Rs. 200, as per the Indian Stamp Act.

However, Partnership registration fees vary among states due to different compliance requirements and stamp duty rates. The cost for registering a Partnership Firm ranges from Rs. 500 to Rs. 3000.

Note: Stamp duty is calculated based on partner contributions and follows state-specific regulations.

Alterations in the Partnership Deed

Partners have the flexibility to modify, alter, or change the partnership deed through mutual agreement. All partners are required to sign the amended deed.

Subsequently, the modified partnership deed should be registered at the Sub-Registrar's office, where the original deed was registered. Additionally, it is necessary to submit the modified deed to the Registrar of Firms for record-keeping purposes.

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Register your Business at just 1,499 + Govt. Fee

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Register your Private Limited Company in just 1,499 + Govt. Fee

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Register your One Person Company in just 1,499 + Govt. Fee

Register your business
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Register your Business starting at just 1,499 + Govt. Fee

Register your business
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Register your Limited Liability Partnership in just 1,499 + Govt. Fee

Register your business

Private Limited Company
(Pvt. Ltd.)

1,499 + Govt. Fee
BEST SUITED FOR
  • Service-based businesses
  • Businesses looking to issue shares
  • Businesses seeking investment through equity-based funding


Limited Liability Partnership
(LLP)

1,499 + Govt. Fee
BEST SUITED FOR
  • Professional services 
  • Firms seeking any capital contribution from Partners
  • Firms sharing resources with limited liability 

One Person Company
(OPC)

1,499 + Govt. Fee
BEST SUITED FOR
  • Freelancers, Small-scale businesses
  • Businesses looking for minimal compliance
  • Businesses looking for single-ownership

Private Limited Company
(Pvt. Ltd.)

1,499 + Govt. Fee
BEST SUITED FOR
  • Service-based businesses
  • Businesses looking to issue shares
  • Businesses seeking investment through equity-based funding


One Person Company
(OPC)

1,499 + Govt. Fee
BEST SUITED FOR
  • Freelancers, Small-scale businesses
  • Businesses looking for minimal compliance
  • Businesses looking for single-ownership

Private Limited Company
(Pvt. Ltd.)

1,499 + Govt. Fee
BEST SUITED FOR
  • Service-based businesses
  • Businesses looking to issue shares
  • Businesses seeking investment through equity-based funding


Limited Liability Partnership
(LLP)

1,499 + Govt. Fee
BEST SUITED FOR
  • Professional services 
  • Firms seeking any capital contribution from Partners
  • Firms sharing resources with limited liability 

Frequently Asked Questions

How to Convert a Partnership Firm into an LLP in India

How to Convert a Partnership Firm into an LLP in India

As Indian businesses evolve, many traditional partnership firms are transitioning into Limited Liability Partnerships (LLPs). This shift is primarily due to LLPs offering the dual benefits of limited liability and flexible management. If you’re running a partnership firm and planning to scale or raise capital, converting into an LLP could provide a more secure and growth-friendly structure. 

This blog walks you through the key differences, reasons for conversion, and the step-by-step process involved.

Table of Contents

Partnership vs LLP

Income Range Tax Rate
Up to ₹3 lakh -
₹3 lakh – ₹6 lakh 5%
₹6 lakh – ₹9 lakh 10%
₹9 lakh – ₹12 lakh 15%
₹12 lakh – ₹15 lakh 20%
Above ₹15 lakh 30%

Why Choose LLP Instead of a Partnership Firm?

  • Limited Liability: Unlike partnership firms, LLPs protect the personal assets of partners.
  • Separate Legal Identity: An LLP can own property, sue, and be sued in its own name.
  • Ease of Ownership Transfer: Ownership and management can be easily transferred.
  • Tax Benefits: LLPs are taxed as partnerships but enjoy exemption from dividend distribution tax (DDT).
  • Investor Friendly: LLPs are seen as more credible and structured by banks and investors.
  • Perpetual Existence: Business continuity is not affected by partner exit or death.

Requirements for Converting a Partnership Firm into an LLP

  1. The partnership firm must be registered under the Indian Partnership Act, 1932.
  2. All partners must consent to the conversion.
  3. There should be no security interest (like a charge) on firm assets at the time of conversion.
  4. All partners of the firm must become partners of the LLP.
  5. Digital Signature Certificates (DSC) and Director Identification Numbers (DIN) for designated partners are mandatory.
  6. The firm must comply with all necessary clearances and approvals (if any) before the conversion.

Ready to upgrade your partnership? Start your LLP registration with expert assistance today.

How do you convert a partnership firm into an LLP?

Here’s the step-by-step process:

Step 1: Obtain DSC & DIN

At least two designated partners need DSCs, which can be applied for in the FiLLiP form.

Step 2: Name Reservation (RUN–LLP)

To reserve the name, file the “Reserve Unique Name–LLP” (RUN–LLP) form with the MCA. It should ideally be the same as the partnership firm’s name.

Step 3: File Form FiLLiP

File Form FiLLiP (Form for Incorporation of LLP) with all partner details, registered address, and capital structure. This form can also be used to apply for DIN.

Step 4: File LLP Form 17 (Conversion Form)

This is the key form for conversion. It must be filed with all supporting documents (listed below) and submitted to the MCA.

Step 5: File LLP Form 2

Submit the incorporation document and subscriber details, including the proposed LLP Agreement.

Step 6: Certificate of Incorporation

Once all forms are verified and approved, the Registrar of Companies (RoC) will issue a Certificate of Incorporation for the LLP.

Documents to be Filed

  • Copy of the partnership deed
  • Statement of assets and liabilities (certified by a CA)
  • Latest Income Tax Return acknowledgement
  • Consent letters from all partners
  • NOC from creditors, if applicable
  • Proof of registered office (rent agreement + utility bill)
  • Identity and address proof of all partners
  • Copy of resolution (if applicable)
  • LLP Agreement (after incorporation)

Registration

Registration is completed once the Certificate of Incorporation is issued by the RoC under the LLP Act, 2008. This certificate legally establishes the LLP as a distinct entity.

The firm must also:

  • Apply for PAN & TAN in the LLP’s name.
  • Update bank accounts and register under GST, Shops & Establishment, etc.
  • File Form 3 with the MCA within 30 days to register the LLP Agreement.

Post-registration:

  • The original partnership firm is deemed dissolved.
  • All assets, liabilities, obligations, and rights of the firm get transferred to the LLP.
  • All contracts and agreements entered into by the partnership firm are considered valid under the LLP.
  • Business continuity is maintained under the new structure.

Partners' Liability Before Conversion

It’s important to note:

  • Partners remain personally liable for all firm obligations and liabilities incurred before conversion.
  • The LLP is not discharged from any previous liability just because of the conversion.

  • Creditors can enforce pre-conversion obligations against the LLP or partners individually, depending on the terms.

LLP Form No. 17

LLP Form 17 is an important conversion form to be submitted during the process. It includes:

  • Declaration by partners
  • Statement of assets and liabilities
  • Consent of all partners
  • Details of all secured creditors and their NOC
  • Copy of the latest ITR
  • Copy of the partnership deed

The form must be digitally signed and submitted with a prescribed fee.

Part A: Application

  • Name and registration details of the existing firm
  • Proposed name of the LLP
  • Details of all partners (name, PAN, address)
  • Statement of consent from partners
  • Statement of financial position of the firm

Part B: Statement

  • Statement confirming that the partners will be part of the LLP
  • Declaration that all regulatory and tax obligations have been complied with
  • Acknowledgement of previous liabilities

Attachments

  • Consent letters from all partners
  • NOC from creditors
  • Copy of PAN and Aadhaar of partners
  • Copy of the partnership deed
  • Digital signatures of partners
  • Latest IT return
  • Rental agreement and utility bill for registered office
  • LLP Agreement (to be filed within 30 days of incorporation)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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1,499 + Govt. Fee
BEST SUITED FOR
  • Freelancers, Small-scale businesses
  • Businesses looking for minimal compliance
  • Businesses looking for single-ownership

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Limited Liability Partnership
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1,499 + Govt. Fee
BEST SUITED FOR
  • Professional services 
  • Firms seeking any capital contribution from Partners
  • Firms sharing resources with limited liability 

Frequently Asked Questions

Why should I convert my partnership firm into an LLP?

Converting into an LLP offers several benefits:

  • Limited Liability
  • Separate Legal Entity
  • Perpetual Succession
  • Increased Credibility
  • Ease of Compliance

Is it mandatory to convert a partnership firm into an LLP?

No, it is not mandatory. Conversion is voluntary and usually done when the partners want to enjoy the benefits of limited liability and a formal structure without the complexity of incorporating a company.

Do all partners need to agree to the conversion?

Yes, all existing partners must unanimously agree to the conversion. Also, only the existing partners of the firm can become partners in the LLP at the time of conversion- no new partners can be added during this process.

Is there any limit on the number of partners in an LLP?

No, there is no upper limit on the number of partners in an LLP. However, a minimum of two partners is required to form an LLP. Unlike traditional partnership firms (which are capped at 50 partners).

Do I need to obtain a new PAN for the LLP after conversion?

Yes, after conversion, the LLP becomes a separate legal entity, so you must apply for a new PAN and TAN in the name of the LLP. You’ll also need to update other registrations (like GST, Shops & Establishments, bank accounts, etc.) to reflect the new entity.

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Basanth Verma
shopeg.in
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TBS Magazine
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https://zillout.com/
Smooth onboarding, seamless incorporation and a wonderful community. Thanks to the #razorpayrize team! #rizeincorporation
Dhaval Trivedi
Basanth Verma
shopeg.in
Exciting news! Incorporation of our company, FoxSell, with Razorpay Rize was extremely smooth and straightforward. We highly recommend them. Thank you Razorpay Rize for making it easy to set up our business in India.
@foxsellapp
#razorpayrize #rizeincorporation
Dhaval Trivedi
Prakhar Shrivastava
foxsell.app
We would recommend Razorpay Rize incorporation services to any founder without a second doubt. The process was beyond efficient and show's razorpay founder's commitment and vision to truly help entrepreneur's and early stage startups to get them incorporated with ease. If you wanna get incorporated, pick them. Thanks for the help Razorpay.

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Dhaval Trivedi
TBS Magazine
Hey, Guys!
We just got incorporated yesterday.
Thanks to Rize team for all the Support.
It was a wonderful experience.
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Dhaval Trivedi
Nayan Mishra
https://zillout.com/