Can You Change Company Name After Registration?
A company name is more than a legal identifier. It represents your brand, your market position, and how customers and investors perceive you. As businesses evolve, pivot, or rebrand, the need to change the company name is more common than you might think. Whether you are rebranding after a pivot, resolving a trademark conflict, or simply upgrading your company's image, this guide covers the complete process of changing your company name in India.
Reasons to Change Your Company Name
- Business pivot: The original name no longer reflects the company's current products or services
- Rebranding: Marketing-driven change to improve brand perception and market positioning
- Trademark conflict: Another entity holds a similar trademark, and you need to differentiate
- Investor requirement: Investors may request a name change as part of their investment terms
- Merger or acquisition: The combined entity adopts a new name to reflect the merged business
- Name undesirability: The current name has become associated with negative connotations or is too limiting
- Professional upgrade: Transitioning from a generic name to a more professional, brandable name
Step-by-Step Process for Changing Company Name
Step 1: Check Name Availability
Before initiating the formal process, check whether your desired new name is available through the MCA21 portal using the RUN (Reserve Unique Name) service. The RUN application allows you to propose up to 2 names. Check for:
- Exact or similar names in the MCA database
- Conflicting trademarks in the IP India database
- Compliance with MCA naming guidelines
Step 2: Board Resolution
Convene a board meeting and pass a resolution to:
- Approve the proposed name change
- Authorize the convening of an EGM or postal ballot for shareholder approval
- Authorize a director/CS to file the necessary applications
Step 3: Special Resolution (Shareholder Approval)
Pass a special resolution at an EGM or through postal ballot with at least 75% of shareholders voting in favor. The resolution must clearly state the existing name and the proposed new name. Send notice of the EGM at least 21 clear days before the meeting.
Step 4: Apply for Name Reservation (RUN)
Submit the RUN application on the MCA portal with the proposed new name. The application costs Rs. 1,000 and is processed within 2 to 4 business days. If approved, the name is reserved for 60 days.
Step 5: File INC-24 (Application for Name Change)
After name reservation, file Form INC-24 with the Regional Director (Central Government). Attach:
- Board resolution for name change
- Special resolution passed by shareholders
- Minutes of the EGM
- RUN approval letter
- Altered MOA (with the new name in the Name Clause)
- NOC from creditors (if applicable)
Step 6: Obtain RD Approval
The Regional Director reviews the application and issues an order approving the name change. This typically takes 2 to 4 weeks. The RD may ask for additional documents or clarifications.
Step 7: File INC-24 with ROC
After RD approval, file the INC-24 with the ROC along with the RD order, altered MOA, and other supporting documents. The ROC issues a fresh Certificate of Incorporation with the new name and updated CIN.
Step 8: Post-Approval Updates
After receiving the new Certificate of Incorporation, update the name across all registrations and documents.
Documents Required for Name Change
| Document | Purpose | Prepared By |
|---|---|---|
| Board resolution | Approves the name change proposal | Company Secretary/Director |
| Special resolution (EGM) | Shareholder approval (75%+ votes) | Company Secretary/Director |
| EGM notice and minutes | Proof of proper meeting procedure | Company Secretary |
| RUN approval letter | Name availability confirmation | MCA portal |
| Altered MOA | Updated Name Clause | CS/CA/Lawyer |
| Form MGT-14 | Filing of special resolution with ROC | CS/CA |
| Form INC-24 | Application for name change to RD and ROC | CS/CA |
| NOC from creditors | Confirmation that creditors do not object | Company/Creditors |
Cost Breakdown
| Component | Cost |
|---|---|
| RUN application fee | Rs. 1,000 |
| INC-24 filing fee (government) | Rs. 1,000 to Rs. 5,000 (based on authorized capital) |
| MGT-14 filing fee | Rs. 200 to Rs. 600 |
| Stamp duty on altered MOA | Rs. 500 to Rs. 3,000 (varies by state) |
| Professional fees (CS/CA) | Rs. 5,000 to Rs. 15,000 |
| Total | Rs. 8,000 to Rs. 25,000 |
Post-Name Change Updates Required
- PAN card update: Apply for name correction on the PAN card through the IT department
- GST registration amendment: File GST amendment within 15 days of the name change
- Bank account update: Submit the new Certificate of Incorporation and board resolution to your bank
- Trademark update: File for amendment of any registered trademarks under the old name
- Other registrations: Update MSME/Udyam, FSSAI, Drug License, IEC, and any other government registrations
- Contracts and agreements: Notify all contracting parties and issue addendums where necessary
- Website and marketing: Update domains, email addresses, social media handles, and marketing materials
- Company stationery: Update letterhead, rubber stamps, invoices, and business cards
Common Name Change Mistakes
- Not checking name availability first: Filing the special resolution before confirming name availability wastes time and money
- Choosing a similar name: Names too similar to existing companies or trademarks get rejected
- Incomplete documentation: Missing documents delay RD approval and ROC processing
- Forgetting post-change updates: Not updating GST, bank accounts, and other registrations creates operational issues
- Not notifying stakeholders: Failing to inform clients, vendors, and partners causes confusion and potential contract disputes
Conclusion
Changing your company name is a straightforward but multi-step process that requires careful planning and execution. The key is to check name availability first, ensure proper shareholder approval, complete the RD and ROC filings accurately, and follow through with all post-change updates. With the right professional support, the entire process can be completed in 4 to 8 weeks with minimal disruption to business operations.
IncorpX handles the complete company name change process, from name search and reservation to RD approval, ROC filing, and post-change updates, ensuring a smooth transition for your brand.
