Check Company Name Availability
Quick Answer
Check Company Name Availability Registration India is the first step in business incorporation under the Companies Act, 2013. Before filing incorporation documents, you must ensure your proposed company name is unique and not identical or similar to an existing registered name or trademark.
Check Company Name Availability — detailed explanation below
Governing Act — Check Company Name Availability Registration India
The process of checking and reserving a company name is governed by the Companies Act, 2013, specifically Section 4 (which deals with the requirements for a company name) and Rule 8 of the Companies (Incorporation) Rules, 2014. These provisions prohibit names that are identical or too similar to an existing company, LLP, or registered trademark. The Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) administers the name availability check through its online portal.
Government Department & Website for Check Company Name Availability Registration India
The Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) is the government department responsible for company registration and name availability. The online service for checking name availability is the RUN (Reserve Unique Name) web service, accessible at www.mca.gov.in. You can also use the MCA21 portal to check name availability before applying.
Check Company Name Availability Registration India Application Process
To check company name availability for registration in India, follow these steps:
- Visit the MCA portal (www.mca.gov.in) and go to the RUN web service.
- Enter proposed name (up to 6 names in order of preference) along with the company's main object.
- Pay the prescribed fee (see Fees section).
- MCA scrutinizes the name against existing companies, LLPs, and trademarks.
- Approval or rejection is communicated via email. If approved, the name is reserved for 20 days for private companies and 60 days for public companies.
If the name is rejected, you can resubmit with modifications.
Key Forms Required for Check Company Name Availability Registration India
The primary form for checking company name availability is RUN (Reserve Unique Name). Additionally, for incorporation, you will need:
- SPICe+ (INC-32) – for incorporation, DIN, PAN, TAN, and other registrations.
- INC-33 – e-Memorandum of Association.
- INC-34 – e-Articles of Association.
- INC-9 – Declaration by subscribers.
- DIR-2 – Consent to act as director.
- DIR-3 – Director Identification Number application (if not already obtained).
Eligibility Criteria for Check Company Name Availability Registration India
Any person or group intending to incorporate a company in India can check name availability. The proposed name must:
- Not be identical or too similar to an existing company, LLP, or registered trademark.
- Not contain words prohibited under the Emblems and Names (Prevention of Improper Use) Act, 1950.
- End with the appropriate suffix: 'Private Limited' for private companies, 'Limited' for public companies.
- Not be offensive or against public policy.
No reported decision was found on this point.
Timeline for Check Company Name Availability Registration India
The MCA typically processes RUN applications within 1-2 working days. However, no specific timeline is guaranteed. The name, once approved, is reserved for 20 days (private company) or 60 days (public company) within which incorporation must be completed.
Fees for Check Company Name Availability Registration India
The government fee for checking name availability through RUN is as follows:
| Service | Fee (INR) |
|---|---|
| RUN (Reserve Unique Name) – first application | ₹1,000 |
| RUN – subsequent applications (if resubmission) | ₹1,000 each |
Note: These fees are prescribed by the MCA and are subject to change. Additional fees apply for incorporation forms.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the process to check company name availability registration India?
The process involves filing a RUN (Reserve Unique Name) application on the MCA portal with up to 6 proposed names. The MCA checks against existing companies and trademarks. If approved, the name is reserved for 20-60 days.
How much does it cost to check company name availability registration India?
The government fee for a RUN application is ₹1,000 per application. This fee is non-refundable even if the name is rejected.
Can I check company name availability registration India before incorporating?
Yes, you can check name availability by filing a RUN application on the MCA portal before submitting incorporation documents. This is recommended to avoid rejection during incorporation.
What are the rules for company name availability registration India?
The name must not be identical or similar to an existing company, LLP, or trademark. It must end with 'Private Limited' or 'Limited' as applicable, and must not contain prohibited words.
How long is a reserved name valid for business incorporation after checking availability?
Once approved, the name is reserved for 20 days for a private company and 60 days for a public company. You must complete incorporation within this period or the name lapses.
What happens if my proposed company name is rejected during availability check?
If rejected, you can file a new RUN application with a different name. The MCA provides reasons for rejection, allowing you to modify the name accordingly.
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