Can a company change its name to add or remove Private Limited?

Changing the company type suffix requires a conversion process, not a name change. Only the name preceding the suffix can be changed through INC-24.

Is shareholder approval mandatory for a name change?

Yes. A special resolution (75% majority) at an EGM or postal ballot is mandatory, along with central government approval via INC-24.

Name Change of Company

Q: How long does a company name change take?

Typically 30 to 45 working days including name reservation, EGM process, INC-24 filing, and MCA processing.

Q: Does changing the company name affect existing contracts?

Existing contracts remain valid. Statutory registrations like PAN, GST, and bank accounts must be updated. The CIN remains unchanged.

Q: What is the fee for changing a company name?

MCA fees under Companies (Registration Offices and Fees) Rules apply, plus RUN application fees, stamp duty on amended MOA/AOA, and professional fees.

Rebrand Your Company Legally with a Smooth MCA Name Change Process

A company may need to change its name for various reasons — rebranding, change in business focus, merger, or simply to better reflect its identity. Under the Companies Act, 2013, a company can change its name by passing a special resolution, obtaining central government approval (via MCA), and filing the requisite forms with the Registrar of Companies.

The name change process involves availability checks, board and shareholder approvals, MCA filing, and updating the Certificate of Incorporation. All downstream documents — PAN, GST, bank accounts, contracts, and trade licences — must also be updated to reflect the new name. This is typically accompanied by an MOA amendment and AOA amendment to update the company's constitutional documents. Our team manages the entire process — from MCA compliance to post-approval updates.

Our Name Change Services

Name Availability Check

Searching the MCA database and trademark registry to confirm the availability of the proposed new name before filing.

RUN Application (INC-1)

Filing the RUN (Reserve Unique Name) application on the MCA portal to reserve the new company name prior to formal change.

Board & Shareholder Resolutions

Drafting board resolutions, EGM notice, and special resolution for name change approval by shareholders.

INC-24 Filing

Filing Form INC-24 with the Registrar of Companies seeking approval for the name change along with the special resolution.

New Certificate of Incorporation

Obtaining the fresh Certificate of Incorporation with the new name issued by the MCA upon approval.

Post-Approval Updates

Guidance on updating PAN, GST registration, bank accounts, contracts, letterheads, and other documents with the new name.

Requirements for Company Name Change

The company must not have defaulted in filing annual returns or financial statements
The proposed name must be unique and not identical or similar to an existing registered company or LLP
The name must comply with the Companies (Incorporation) Rules, 2014 naming guidelines
A special resolution must be passed at an EGM or through postal ballot
Central government approval via Form INC-24 is required within 60 days of the special resolution
MOA and AOA must be updated to reflect the new name after approval

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a company name change take?

The end-to-end process typically takes 30 to 45 working days. This includes name availability check, RUN approval (3 to 5 days), EGM process (21 days notice period), INC-24 filing, and MCA processing (10 to 15 working days). The new Certificate of Incorporation is issued digitally once approved.

Does changing the company name affect existing contracts and registrations?

Existing contracts remain valid under the new name. However, the company should update all statutory registrations (PAN, GST, professional tax, import-export code) and inform banks, vendors, and customers of the name change. The CIN (Corporate Identity Number) remains unchanged even after a name change.

Can a company change its name to include or remove "Private Limited" or "Limited"?

The suffix "Private Limited" or "Limited" is part of the company type, not the name per se. Changing from Private Limited to Public Limited or vice versa involves conversion of company type under separate provisions of the Companies Act and is not merely a name change. However, the name preceding the suffix can be freely changed subject to availability and approvals.

Is shareholder approval mandatory for a company name change?

Yes. A special resolution (approved by at least 75% of shareholders present and voting) at an Extraordinary General Meeting or through postal ballot is mandatory for changing the company name. Additionally, central government approval through Form INC-24 is required before the change is effective.

What is the fee for changing a company name?

MCA filing fees for INC-24 depend on the company's authorized capital and are prescribed under the Companies (Registration Offices and Fees) Rules. Additionally, fees apply for RUN application, stamp duty on amended MOA/AOA, and professional fees for drafting and filings. The total cost varies by state and company capital.