Key Reasons for Changing Company Name
Rebranding or repositioning in the market
When a company evolves its focus or wants to refresh its image, a name change can signal this transformation to customers and the market.
Change in ownership or business structure
New ownership, mergers, or acquisitions often necessitate a name change to reflect the new corporate identity.
Expansion into new business activities
When diversifying into new markets or product lines, a more inclusive or representative name may be necessary.
Legal or regulatory requirements
Sometimes regulatory changes or legal challenges necessitate a name change to comply with new laws or resolve intellectual property conflicts.
Avoiding trademark conflicts
To avoid potential legal issues with existing trademarks or brands, companies may need to modify their name.
Process for Changing Company Name
Board Resolution
- • Convene a board meeting to pass a resolution approving the proposed name change.
- • Authorize a director or professional to check name availability and initiate the process.
Name Approval from MCA (RUN Application)
- • File an application through the MCA's 'RUN' (Reserve Unique Name) service.
- • Ensure the proposed name complies with naming guidelines under the Companies Act, 2013.
Special Resolution by Shareholders
- • Conduct a General Meeting and pass a special resolution approving the name change.
- • File MGT-14 with the MCA within 30 days of passing the resolution.
Approval by ROC (Registrar of Companies)
- • Submit an application for name change along with the necessary documents via Form INC-24.
- • Pay the prescribed government fees.
- • Await MCA and ROC approval.
Issuance of New Certificate of Incorporation
- • Once approved, the ROC issues a fresh Certificate of Incorporation reflecting the new name.
Update Statutory Records & Business Documents
- • Update the new name in MOA & AOA, company PAN, GST, bank accounts, licenses, and contracts.
- • Inform stakeholders, vendors, and clients about the name change.
Compliance & Legal Requirements
Name Uniqueness – Ensure that the new name is not identical or too similar to an existing registered company or trademark.
Legal Identity Preservation – A change in name does not impact the company's legal identity or obligations. The Corporate Identity Number (CIN) remains the same.
Timeline Compliance – All statutory filings must be completed within the prescribed timelines to avoid penalties.
Naming Guidelines – The new name must comply with the Companies (Incorporation) Rules regarding prohibited and restricted words.
Updating Registrations – After name change approval, all statutory registrations including PAN, GST, bank accounts, and licenses must be updated within a reasonable timeframe.
Documents Required
Board Resolution approving the name change.
Special Resolution passed by shareholders.
Name approval letter from MCA.
Altered Memorandum of Association (MOA) and Articles of Association (AOA).
Updated statutory records reflecting the new name.
Form INC-24 for application of name change.
Form MGT-14 for filing special resolution.
Expected Timeline
Our Company Name Change Services
- End-to-End Name Change Management – Complete assistance with the entire name change process.
- Name Availability Check – Expert verification of name availability before application.
- Document Preparation – Creation of all required resolutions and application documents.
- Post-Approval Updates – Assistance with updating all business documents and registrations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Services
Change in Company Business Activity
Complete assistance for updating your business activities
Learn more