Step-by-Step Guide
8 Steps
How to Change the Name of a Company in India (MCA Process)
Complete guide on how to change the name of a company in India. Covers RUN name reservation, special resolution, INC-24 filing on MCA portal, ROC approval timeline, and updated certificate of incorporation for 2026.
Quick Overview
Estimated Cost
₹5000
Time Required
15 to 30 Days
Total Steps
8 Steps
What You'll Need
Documents Required
- Existing Certificate of Incorporation of the company
- Current Memorandum of Association (MOA) and Articles of Association (AOA)
- PAN card and TAN details of the company
- Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) of the authorised director
- Board resolution approving the proposed name change and calling an EGM/postal ballot
- Special resolution passed by shareholders approving the name change with at least 75 percent majority
- Certified copy of the minutes of the general meeting where the special resolution was passed
- NOC from creditors and regulatory authorities (if applicable)
- Updated MOA and AOA reflecting the new company name
Tools & Prerequisites
- MCA V3 portal (mca.gov.in) for RUN name reservation and INC-24 filing
- Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) USB token or cloud-based DSC for e-signing forms
- MCA fee payment gateway (net banking, debit card, or pay later options)
- Stamp paper and notarisation services for updated MOA and AOA (state-wise stamp duty applicable)
- Company letterhead and communication templates for notifying stakeholders about the name change
Changing the name of a company is a significant corporate decision that can be driven by rebranding, business expansion, mergers, trademark considerations, or a strategic shift in the company direction. In India, the process is governed by Section 13 and Section 16 of the Companies Act 2013 and involves a combination of shareholder approval, MCA filings, and post-approval updates.
This guide walks you through the entire company name change process for 2026, covering name availability checks, board and shareholder resolutions, MCA form filings, ROC approval, and all post-approval steps needed to complete the transition smoothly.
When Should a Company Consider Changing Its Name
There are several legitimate business reasons for changing a company name. Understanding your reason helps you prepare the right justification for your special resolution and MCA filing.
- Rebranding: The company wants to adopt a name that better represents its evolved product, service, or market positioning
- Business expansion: The existing name is too narrow for new product lines, markets, or geographies
- Merger or acquisition: A combined entity after a merger may need a new unified name
- Trademark conflicts: The current name conflicts with a registered trademark of another entity
- Investor or partner requirement: An incoming investor or strategic partner may require a name change as part of the deal structure
- Government direction: The ROC or Central Government directs the company to change its name under Section 16 due to similarity with another company or misleading information
Legal Framework: Section 13 of the Companies Act 2013
Section 13 provides the legal basis for altering the Memorandum of Association (MOA) of a company, which includes the company name clause. Key provisions include:
- Section 13(2): A company can change its name by passing a special resolution and obtaining prior approval from the Central Government (delegated to the ROC)
- Section 13(3): When the name change involves the addition or deletion of the word 'Private', the ROC approval is required
- Section 16(1): If a company name is identical or too similar to an existing company, the Central Government can direct the company to change its name within 3 months
- Section 16(3): If the company fails to comply with the direction, the Central Government may allot a new name
Step 1: Hold a Board Meeting
The first step is to convene a board meeting and pass a board resolution that covers the following items:
- Approval of the proposed new name (with one or two alternatives)
- Authorisation for a director or company secretary to file the RUN name reservation application on MCA
- Authorisation to convene an Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM) for passing the special resolution
- Approval of the notice, agenda, and explanatory statement for the EGM
Before the board meeting, run an informal name check on the MCA portal by searching the company and LLP name database. Also search the Trademark Registry at ipindia.gov.in to ensure the proposed name does not conflict with any registered trademarks. This helps avoid rejections at the RUN stage.
Step 2: Reserve the New Name Using RUN
Log in to the MCA V3 portal and apply through the RUN (Reserve Unique Name) service.
- Navigate to MCA Services and select RUN (Reserve Unique Name)
- Select the purpose as "Change of Name for an Existing Company"
- Enter the CIN of the company
- Provide one proposed name and one alternative name
- Include a brief justification for each name explaining its significance and connection to the business
- Pay the filing fee of 1,000 rupees
- Submit and wait for MCA approval (typically 2 to 5 working days)
The reserved name is valid for 20 days from the date of approval. You must file INC-24 within this period. If the reservation expires, you need to file a fresh RUN application with a fee of 1,000 rupees.
MCA Naming Rules
| Rule | Details |
|---|---|
| Uniqueness | Must not be identical or deceptively similar to any existing company, LLP, or registered trademark |
| Restricted words | Words like 'National', 'Bharat', 'Indian', 'Government', 'Reserve Bank' need prior government approval |
| Suffix requirement | Must end with 'Private Limited' for private companies and 'Limited' for public companies |
| Undesirable names | Names that are offensive, vulgar, or against public policy will be rejected |
| Phonetic similarity | Names that sound similar to existing companies may be rejected even if the spelling is different |
Step 3: Pass the Special Resolution
Convene an EGM or initiate a postal ballot to pass a special resolution approving the name change. The process involves:
- Issue notice to all shareholders at least 21 clear days before the EGM
- Include the explanatory statement under Section 102 detailing the reason for the name change
- Conduct the meeting (physical, virtual, or hybrid as per the AOA provisions)
- Pass the resolution with at least 75 percent of the voting shareholders approving the change
- Prepare certified minutes of the meeting signed by the chairman
An EGM can be called at shorter notice (less than 21 days) if consent is given by at least 95 percent of the shareholders (for a Private Limited Company). This can help speed up the process if all shareholders are in agreement.
Step 4: File MGT-14 with the ROC
Within 30 days of passing the special resolution, file Form MGT-14 with the ROC to register the resolution. Attachments include:
- Certified copy of the special resolution
- Notice of the EGM along with the explanatory statement
- Minutes of the general meeting
- Attendance register of the meeting
The MGT-14 filing fee depends on the authorised share capital, ranging from 200 rupees to 5,000 rupees.
Step 5: File INC-24 for Name Change Approval
File Form INC-24 on the MCA portal. This is the main application for ROC approval of the name change. The following details and documents are required:
- Company CIN and existing name
- Proposed new name (as approved through RUN)
- RUN approval reference number and date
- Special resolution reference (date, type of meeting, percentage of votes in favour)
- Altered MOA and AOA with the new name
- NOC from regulatory authorities (if the company was directed to change name by the government)
- Declaration that the proposed name does not violate any trademark or existing entity name
The form must be digitally signed by the authorised director using DSC and certified by a practising Company Secretary or Chartered Accountant.
Step 6: Receive the Updated Certificate of Incorporation
Once the ROC is satisfied with the INC-24 application, they issue a fresh Certificate of Incorporation bearing the new company name. Key points:
- The CIN remains unchanged
- The date of incorporation remains unchanged
- Only the company name is updated in the certificate
- The certificate is digitally generated and available on the MCA portal
- The name change is effective from the date of the new certificate
Need help with the company name change process and MCA filings?
Explore Our Company Name Change ServiceStep 7: Post-Approval Updates
After receiving the new certificate, you must update the company name across all statutory, financial, and operational documents.
Government Registrations to Update
| Registration | How to Update | Timeline |
|---|---|---|
| PAN Card | Apply for correction through NSDL or UTIITSL portal with new Certificate of Incorporation | 15 to 20 working days |
| TAN | File TAN correction form (Form 49B correction) through NSDL portal | 10 to 15 working days |
| GST Registration | File GST REG-14 (Amendment of Registration) on gst.gov.in | 15 working days |
| PF Registration | Apply for name change on the EPFO portal with supporting documents | 15 to 30 working days |
| ESI Registration | Apply for modification on the ESIC portal | 15 to 30 working days |
| MSME / Udyam | Update on the Udyam portal using Aadhaar and new certificate | Immediate (online) |
| Bank Accounts | Visit the bank with new certificate, updated PAN, and board resolution | 5 to 10 working days |
| Trademark | File TM-P with the Trademark Registry for proprietor name amendment | 30 to 60 days |
Company Name Change Cost Summary
| Component | Cost (Approximate) |
|---|---|
| RUN name reservation fee | 1,000 rupees |
| MGT-14 filing fee | 200 to 5,000 rupees (based on share capital) |
| INC-24 filing fee | 200 to 5,000 rupees (based on share capital) |
| Stamp duty on updated MOA | 100 to 1,000 rupees (varies by state) |
| PAN correction fee | 107 rupees (domestic dispatch) |
| Professional charges (CS/CA) | 5,000 to 15,000 rupees |
| Total estimated cost | 7,000 to 30,000 rupees |
Name Change for LLPs
The process for changing an LLP name is similar but governed by the LLP Act 2008. The key differences are:
- Use LLP-RUN on MCA to reserve the new name
- Obtain consent from all partners as per the LLP Agreement
- File Form 5 (Notice of Change of Name) instead of INC-24
- The ROC issues an updated Certificate of Incorporation for the LLP
- No special resolution is needed since LLPs do not have shareholders; partner consent suffices
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not checking trademark availability: A name may be available on MCA but conflict with a registered trademark, leading to future legal issues. Always search the Trademark Registry before finalising
- Missing the 20-day RUN validity: If you do not file INC-24 within 20 days of name reservation, you lose the name and must re-apply
- Late filing of MGT-14: Failing to file MGT-14 within 30 days of the special resolution attracts additional fees of 100 rupees per day
- Not updating PAN and GST: Using old PAN and GST details after the name change causes mismatches in tax filings and may trigger notices from the IT Department and GST authorities
- Forgetting to update contracts: All existing agreements, vendor contracts, and customer agreements should be updated through addendums or intimation letters
- Not updating the company signboard: Section 12 of the Companies Act requires the company name to be displayed outside every office. Failure to update the signboard attracts a fine of 1,000 rupees per day
Conclusion
Changing a company name in India is a structured legal process that involves board and shareholder approvals, MCA filings, and post-approval updates across multiple government and private registrations. The process typically takes 15 to 30 days from the initial board meeting to receiving the updated Certificate of Incorporation, with an additional 15 to 30 days for completing all post-approval updates.
The most critical steps are ensuring name availability through RUN, passing the special resolution with the required 75 percent majority, and filing INC-24 within the 20-day reservation window. Once the ROC issues the new certificate, the company must promptly update PAN, TAN, GST, bank accounts, and all stakeholder communications to reflect the new identity.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why would a company change its name?
Companies change names for several reasons including rebranding to better reflect a new business direction, merging with or acquiring another company, expanding into new markets or product lines, resolving trademark conflicts with another entity, disassociating from a negative reputation, aligning the name with an established brand, or complying with regulatory directives from the ROC or trademark office.
Can a private limited company change its name?
Yes, a private limited company registered under the Companies Act 2013 can change its name by following the prescribed procedure. The process involves passing a special resolution, reserving the new name through MCA RUN service, filing INC-24 with the ROC, and receiving an updated Certificate of Incorporation with the new name.
What is the RUN service on MCA?
RUN stands for Reserve Unique Name. It is a web-based service on the MCA V3 portal that allows companies to check the availability of a proposed name and reserve it for 20 days. The application allows submission of one proposed name and one alternative name. The filing fee is 1,000 rupees per application. If the name is rejected, a resubmission can be made with a different name.
How long is a name reservation valid on MCA?
A name reserved through the RUN service is valid for 20 days from the date of approval. If the company does not file INC-24 within this period, the reservation expires and the name becomes available for others. In that case, the company must file a fresh RUN application and pay the fee again.
What is a special resolution?
A special resolution is a resolution passed at a general meeting of shareholders where at least 75 percent of the members who vote (in person or by proxy) vote in favour of the resolution. The notice for the meeting must clearly state the intention to propose the resolution as a special resolution. Special resolutions are required for major decisions like changing the company name, altering the MOA or AOA, and converting the company type.
What is Form INC-24?
Form INC-24 is the application form filed with the Registrar of Companies for approval of the change of name of a company. It must be filed on the MCA portal within 60 days of the name reservation through RUN. The form includes details of the company, the existing name, the proposed new name, the special resolution, and supporting documents.
What is the fee for filing INC-24?
The government fee for filing INC-24 depends on the authorised share capital of the company. For companies with authorised capital up to 1 lakh rupees, the fee is 200 rupees. For capital between 1 lakh and 5 lakh, the fee is 300 rupees. For capital between 5 lakh and 25 lakh, the fee is 500 rupees. For capital between 25 lakh and 1 crore, the fee is 2,000 rupees. For capital above 1 crore, the fee is 5,000 rupees. Professional charges for the complete filing are additional.
Does the CIN change when the company name changes?
No, the Corporate Identity Number (CIN) of the company does not change when the name changes. The CIN is a permanent unique identifier assigned at the time of incorporation and remains the same throughout the life of the company regardless of name changes, registered office shifts, or other alterations.
What is MGT-14 and why is it needed for name change?
MGT-14 is a form filed with the ROC to register special resolutions passed by the company. Since a name change requires a special resolution under Section 13 of the Companies Act, the company must file MGT-14 within 30 days of passing the resolution. This filing ensures the resolution is recorded in the public records maintained by the ROC.
Can a company use a name that is similar to an existing trademark?
No, the MCA will reject a name that is identical or too similar to an existing registered trademark unless the trademark owner provides a No Objection Certificate (NOC). The RUN system automatically checks proposed names against the trademark database maintained by the Controller General of Patents, Designs and Trade Marks. It also compares against existing company and LLP names in the MCA database.
What documents are needed for company name change?
The key documents include: board resolution proposing the name change, special resolution approving the name change (passed with 75 percent shareholder majority), certified copy of minutes of the general meeting, RUN name approval letter from MCA, updated MOA and AOA reflecting the new name, NOC from creditors or regulatory authorities (if applicable), and the existing Certificate of Incorporation.
How long does the company name change process take?
The entire process typically takes 15 to 30 days from start to finish. The RUN name reservation takes 2 to 5 working days for approval. Holding the EGM requires 21 clear days notice. Filing MGT-14 and INC-24 takes 1 to 2 days each. ROC processing of INC-24 takes 5 to 15 working days depending on the workload of the ROC. Post-approval updates (PAN, TAN, GST, bank) take another 7 to 15 days.
What happens after the new Certificate of Incorporation is issued?
After the new certificate is issued, the company must immediately start using the new name on all official documents including letterheads, invoices, signboards, contracts, stamps, and digital communications. The company must update its PAN, TAN, GST registration, bank accounts, trademark registrations, and all other government registrations to reflect the new name.
Can a company change its name multiple times?
Yes, there is no legal restriction on the number of times a company can change its name under the Companies Act 2013. Each change requires the same procedure: board resolution, special resolution, RUN reservation, INC-24 filing, and updated certificate. However, frequent name changes may raise compliance concerns and can confuse customers, vendors, and investors.
Is shareholder approval mandatory for a company name change?
Yes, shareholder approval through a special resolution is mandatory for changing a company name. The resolution must be passed with at least 75 percent majority of the shareholders who vote. This requirement ensures that the majority of the company owners agree with the rebranding decision. Directors alone cannot approve a name change.
What is Section 13 of the Companies Act 2013?
Section 13 of the Companies Act 2013 governs the alteration of the Memorandum of Association, which includes changing the company name. Section 13(2) specifically deals with name changes and requires a special resolution and approval from the Central Government (delegated to the ROC). It also states that the last name reserved through RUN must be adopted within the reservation validity period.
Can an LLP change its name?
Yes, an LLP can change its name by filing Form 5 (Notice of Change of Name) with the ROC. The process requires consent of all partners as per the LLP Agreement, name reservation through LLP-RUN on the MCA portal, and filing Form 5 with the ROC. The ROC issues an updated Certificate of Incorporation reflecting the new name. The process is similar to company name change but governed by the LLP Act 2008.
What is the penalty for using the old name after the name change?
After the new Certificate of Incorporation is issued, the company is legally obligated to use the new name on all official documents and communications. Using the old name on invoices, contracts, or signboards after the effective date can result in penalties under Section 12 of the Companies Act. The company and every officer in default are punishable with a fine of up to 1,000 rupees per day of default.
Do I need to update the MOA and AOA for a name change?
Yes, the Memorandum of Association (MOA) and Articles of Association (AOA) must be updated to reflect the new company name. The first clause of the MOA contains the company name and must be altered. The updated MOA and AOA are submitted as part of the INC-24 filing. After the name change is approved, printed copies of the amended MOA and AOA should be maintained at the registered office.
Can a company change its name if it has pending legal cases?
Yes, a company can change its name even if it has pending legal cases. The name change does not affect the legal identity of the company since the CIN remains the same. However, the company must inform all courts and legal authorities about the name change and update the party name in all ongoing proceedings. The opposite parties should also be notified.
What is the cost of changing a company name?
The total cost includes government fees and professional charges. Government fees include: RUN filing fee (1,000 rupees), MGT-14 filing fee (200 to 5,000 rupees based on capital), INC-24 filing fee (200 to 5,000 rupees based on capital), and stamp duty on updated MOA (varies by state from 100 to 1,000 rupees). Professional charges for the entire process typically range from 5,000 to 15,000 rupees depending on the service provider.
Can a Section 8 company change its name?
Yes, a Section 8 company can change its name following the same process as other companies. However, since Section 8 companies are licensed under Section 8(1) for charitable purposes, the new name must still reflect the charitable or non-profit nature of the activities. The word 'Foundation', 'Forum', 'Association', 'Federation', or similar must typically be retained. Prior approval from the Regional Director may be required.
What happens to existing contracts after a company name change?
Existing contracts remain valid and enforceable after a company name change. The company should issue addendums or supplementary agreements to all ongoing contracts notifying the counterparties about the change. In practice, a simple intimation letter along with a copy of the new Certificate of Incorporation is sent to all contract parties. The legal identity and obligations of the company remain completely unchanged.
How do I update GST registration after a company name change?
Log in to the GST portal and file GST REG-14 (Amendment of Registration) to update the company name. Upload the new Certificate of Incorporation and updated PAN card as supporting documents. The GST officer reviews the amendment application and approves it within 15 working days. The GSTIN remains the same; only the legal name and trade name are updated.
Can the Central Government direct a company to change its name?
Yes, under Section 16 of the Companies Act, the Central Government can direct a company to change its name if the name is identical or too similar to an existing company or LLP name, or if the name was obtained by furnishing wrong or misleading information. The company must apply for a new name within 3 months of receiving such a direction, failing which the Central Government may allot a new name.
What is the difference between name change and rebranding?
A company name change is a legal process that involves altering the name in the MOA, updating the Certificate of Incorporation, and changing the name across all government registrations. Rebranding is a broader marketing exercise that may include changing the logo, tagline, brand identity, and customer-facing imagery. A company can rebrand without changing its legal name, but a legal name change is always accompanied by rebranding.
Do employees need to be informed about the company name change?
Yes, all employees must be informed about the name change. The company should issue an internal communication or circular explaining the change, the effective date, and any impact on employee documentation. Offer letters, employment agreements, and appointment letters do not need to be reissued unless the employee requests it. However, PF and ESI registrations must be updated with the new company name.
How do I update PAN after a company name change?
Apply for PAN correction through the NSDL (protean-tinpan.com) or UTIITSL portal. Select 'Correction in PAN Data' and update the company name. Upload the new Certificate of Incorporation as proof. The updated PAN card is dispatched within 15 to 20 working days. The PAN number itself does not change; only the name associated with it is updated.
What if the RUN name application is rejected?
If the RUN application is rejected, the MCA provides a reason for rejection (such as similarity to an existing name or trademark conflict). You can file a fresh RUN application with a different name and pay the fee again. There is no limit on the number of RUN applications you can file. Review the MCA naming guidelines before resubmitting to avoid repeated rejections.
Can a company keep its old name as a trade name?
After a legal name change, the company previous name cannot be used as the legal name on any official document. However, the company can maintain a separate trade name or brand name for marketing purposes as long as it is not confused with the legal entity name. The legal name (as per the Certificate of Incorporation) must always appear on invoices, contracts, and statutory filings.
Is a name change applicable retrospectively?
No, a company name change is effective only from the date mentioned in the new Certificate of Incorporation issued by the ROC. It is not retrospective. All documents, contracts, and filings made before the effective date remain valid under the old name. Only documents and filings from the effective date onwards must use the new name.
What is the role of a Company Secretary in the name change process?
A practising Company Secretary (CS) plays a key role in the name change process. The CS certifies the INC-24 form and attests the special resolution. They also ensure compliance with all procedural requirements under the Companies Act, draft the board and special resolutions, coordinate the EGM notice and proceedings, and handle the MGT-14 and INC-24 filings. Companies that do not have an in-house CS must engage a practising CS in whole-time practice.
What is the impact of a name change on the company trademark?
If the company name is also registered as a trademark, the trademark registration must be updated with the Trademark Registry by filing TM-P (Request for Amendment). The trademark itself is not automatically changed when the company name changes. If the company wants to register the new name as a trademark, a fresh trademark application must be filed.
Can a company adopt the name of a dissolved company?
Yes, a company can adopt the name of a dissolved or struck-off company, provided the name has been removed from the MCA active registry for at least 2 years. The RUN system may still flag the name if it is too similar. In such cases, obtaining written consent from the former promoters of the dissolved company may help support the application.
What are the MCA naming guidelines for company names?
The MCA requires that a company name must not be identical or too similar to an existing company, LLP, or registered trademark. The name must not contain words that suggest government patronage unless approved (such as 'National' or 'Bharat'). The name must include 'Private Limited' for private companies and 'Limited' for public companies. The name should not be offensive or undesirable as determined by the Central Government.
How does a name change affect the company annual filings?
After the name change, all subsequent annual filings (AOC-4, MGT-7A) must be filed under the new company name. The MCA portal automatically updates the company name in the system after the new certificate is issued. All statutory registers maintained under the Companies Act should reflect the new name from the effective date. The company CIN, registered office address, and other details remain unchanged.
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