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Complete Guide to Name Change - Company in India: Process, Documents & Fees

Complete Guide to Name Change – Company in India: Process, Documents & Fees

A company’s name reflects its brand identity, business vision, and market positioning. As your business evolves, you may want to rebrand, pivot to a new domain, or align with global standards, and that often starts with changing the company name.

If you're planning a name change for your Private Limited Company, One Person Company (OPC), or Public Limited Company, this guide walks you through the entire process, required documents, and applicable fees.


🔍 Reasons for Changing Company Name

  • Rebranding or business repositioning

  • Business expansion or diversification

  • Mergers or acquisitions

  • Legal conflicts or objections

  • Modernization of nthe ame or removal of regional limits

  • Alignment with parent or group companies


🛠️ Step-by-Step Process to Change Company Name in India

1. Board Resolution

The company must convene a board meeting to:

  • Approve the proposed new name

  • Authorize a Director or professional to apply for name approval via RUN (Reserve Unique Name)


2. Apply for Name Approval (RUN Form)

  • File the RUN form on the MCA portal

  • Check name availability using the MCA Name Search Tool

  • The name must comply with the Companies (Incorporation) Rules, 2014

  • Mention the existing CIN and the proposed name

  • Fees: ₹1,000

📌 Once approved, the name is valid for 20 days only.


3. Pass Special Resolution (EGM)

  • Call an Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM) of shareholders

  • Pass a Special Resolution (requires 75% majority) to approve the name change

  • Amend the MOA (Memorandum of Association) and AOA (Articles of Association) accordingly


4. File Form MGT-14

  • File MGT-14 with the Registrar of Companies (ROC) within 30 days of passing the resolution

  • Attach:

    • Certified copy of the special resolution

    • EGM notice and explanatory statement

    • Altered MOA and AOA

  • Fees: Based on the company’s authorized capital


5. File Form INC-24 for Central Government Approval

  • File Form INC-24 for final name change approval

  • Attach:

    • Copy of MGT-14 approval

    • Board and shareholder resolutions

    • Updated MOA & AOA

    • Name reservation letter from RUN

  • The Central Government (via ROC) verifies all details before issuing a fresh Certificate of Incorporation with the new name


6. Receive Fresh Certificate of Incorporation

Once approved, the ROC will issue a new Certificate of Incorporation bearing the new company name, while the CIN remains the same.


📋 Documents Required for Company Name Change

  1. Board Resolution

  2. Special Resolution passed at EGM

  3. Altered MOA and AOA

  4. Name approval letter from RUN

  5. Digital Signatures (DSCs) of Directors

  6. Certificate of Incorporation

  7. Existing PAN & TAN

  8. Identity & address proof of directors

  9. Form MGT-14 and INC-24 with attachments


💰 Government Fees for Name Change

Item Fees
RUN Form (Name Reservation) ₹1,000
MGT-14 Filing Depends on the Authorized Share Capital
INC-24 Filing ₹1,000 + stamp duty
DSC (if renewed or new) ₹300 – ₹1,500 approx.
Professional Fee (if applicable) ₹2,000 – ₹10,000+ (varies)

📌 Important Notes

  • A trademark check is advised before finalizing a name

  • The new name must not resemble existing companies or violate government norms

  • Company PAN, bank accounts, GST, and licenses must be updated separately after the name change

  • Name change does not affect the company's legal obligations, liabilities, or incorporation date


Conclusion

Changing your company’s name is a powerful step in redefining your business identity — but it must be handled with legal precision and timely filings. Whether it’s for rebranding, expansion, or compliance, following the correct procedure ensures a smooth transition without penalties.