Businesses change names when they rebrand, change line of business or align the company with a registered trademark. The process is entirely online with the ROC.
Step by step
- Pick a name that will pass: it must not be identical or too similar to an existing company, LLP or registered trademark. See company name approval rules and how to check trademark availability.
- Board meeting: approve the proposed name and authorise a director to apply for it.
- Reserve the name in RUN: once approved, the name is reserved for 60 days, within which the change must be completed.
- General meeting: pass a special resolution to change the name and alter the name clause of the memorandum (and the articles where the name appears).
- MGT-14: file the special resolution with the ROC within 30 days.
- INC-24: apply for the Central Government's approval of the change (handled by the ROC) with the resolution and altered memorandum and articles.
- New certificate: on approval the ROC issues a fresh certificate of incorporation in the new name. The change takes effect from that date.
When a name change is not allowed
The rules bar a change of name while the company has defaulted in filing its annual returns or financial statements, or in repaying deposits or debentures and interest on them. File pending forms first; see annual ROC filing.
After the name changes
- Former name on documents: for two years after the change, show the former name next to the new one on letterheads, invoices and other official documents.
- Update registrations: PAN and TAN, GST, bank accounts, Udyam, IEC, licences and the company seal and name board.
- Contracts and trademarks: existing contracts continue; inform counterparties. Record the change on any trademarks the company owns, or file a new mark for the new brand; see trademark registration.
Talk to Regikart
We check the name, file RUN, draft the resolutions and altered memorandum and articles, file MGT-14 and INC-24, and update GST and other registrations. See MOA and AOA changes or call or WhatsApp +91 70444 94804.
Frequently asked questions
Which form is used to change a company's name?
INC-24, after reserving the new name in RUN and filing the special resolution in MGT-14.
Does the CIN or PAN change after a company name change?
No. The company remains the same legal entity; the PAN number stays the same and only the name on the records is updated.
How long is a new name reserved under RUN?
60 days from approval, within which the change must be completed.
Can a company with pending ROC filings change its name?
No. A company in default of filing annual returns or financial statements, or of repaying deposits or debentures, cannot change its name until the default is made good.
Do I have to mention the old name after the change?
Yes, for two years after the change the former name must appear alongside the new one on official documents.
About the author
Regikart CS Team
Company Secretaries at Regikart. Want to discuss this in the context of your business?
