Overview
How a company changes its name
A company can change its name with the approval of its shareholders by special resolution and the approval of the Registrar of Companies (ROC).
The new name is checked and reserved on the MCA portal first. Once the change is approved, the ROC issues a fresh certificate of incorporation in the new name.
Before you apply
Check these first
Filings up to date
The company should have filed its annual returns and financial statements that are due. MCA does not allow a name change while these are in default.
Deposits and debentures
Matured deposits, debentures and the interest on them should be paid. A default here also blocks a name change.
An available name
The new name must not be identical or too similar to an existing company, LLP or registered trademark. See trademark registration to protect it as a brand.
Documents
Documents we need
- One or two proposed names, with their meaning
- Current MOA and AOA of the company
- Board resolution and the shareholders' special resolution
- Minutes of the general meeting
- A valid digital signature (DSC) of a director
What we prepare
Our part
- Name check and the name reservation application
- Draft resolutions and the meeting notice
- The altered name clause in the MOA, and the AOA
- Forms MGT-14 and INC-24, ready for your director to sign
Process
How a name change works with Complianto
- 01
Choose the name
We check your proposed names and apply to reserve one on the MCA portal.
- 02
Board meeting
The board approves the proposal and calls a general meeting.
- 03
Special resolution
Shareholders pass a special resolution. We file it in Form MGT-14 within 30 days.
- 04
Apply for approval
We file Form INC-24 with the altered MOA and AOA for approval of the new name.
- 05
New certificate
Once approved, the ROC issues a fresh certificate of incorporation in the new name.
After approval
Start using the new name
- WhenUse the new name only after the fresh certificate of incorporation is issued.
- DisplayUpdate the name board at the registered office, letterheads, invoices and your website.
- RecordsUpdate the name with your bank, on PAN and tax records, and in your GST registration.
- BrandConsider protecting the new name as a trademark.
Which resolution is needed to change a company's name?
A special resolution of the shareholders. It is filed with the ROC in Form MGT-14 within 30 days.
Which form is used to apply for the new name?
Form INC-24, filed with the special resolution and the altered MOA and AOA. The new name is reserved on the MCA portal before this.
When can we start using the new name?
After the ROC issues the fresh certificate of incorporation in the new name.
Does the company get a new PAN?
No. The company is the same legal entity. Update the name on its PAN and other records after the change.
Can a company with pending filings change its name?
No. MCA does not allow a name change while the company is in default of filing its annual returns or financial statements, or of repaying deposits or debentures and the interest on them.
Is Complianto a government body or a CA firm?
Neither. Complianto is a compliance facilitation platform operated by Mentorcorp Private Limited. You can also file directly on the MCA portal without our fee.
More services
Other company changes
Company Changes
All event-based ROC changes in one place.
MOA / AOA Alteration
Change your objects or articles.
Registered Office Change
Move your company's registered office.
Change in Director
Appoint, replace or remove a director.
Trademark Registration
Protect your new name as a brand.
GST Registration
Keep your GST details up to date.
