Company Name Change Online

Company Name Change - Overview

Vakilsearch understands that a company’s name is at the core of its identity. Our Company Name Change service can assist in making sure a transition runs smoothly; whether rebranding, merging or simply looking to start over, Vakilsearch’s experts offer expert assistance to ensure smooth change.

Understanding the Legal Process Behind Company Name Change

Here are a few things to keep in mind to change your company name and the legal aspect behind it

• ➜ Board Resolution: The board of directors must pass a resolution for approving the name and authorising the needful actions
• ➜ Check Name Availability: Verify whether your proposed new name is free and not already being registered by another entity.
• ➜ Hold an Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM): To present and secure shareholder approval of the proposed name change proposal.
• ➜ File for Approval: Pay the documents and fees for name change with the Authority
• Issuing New Incorporation of Certificate: After approval a new certificate will reflect the name change.

Procedure for Change Your Company Name

To change a company’s name, the following e-forms must be filed:

• ➜ RUN: The existing company must first reserve the desired name using the RUN service.
• ➜ Once their name has been approved, companies must file Form MGT-14 to pass a special resolution amending their Memorandum and Articles of Association (MOA/AOA)
• ➜ INC-24: When applying for name change approval by the Central Government, an eForm INC-24 must be filed. This formalises the name change and brings it into effect.

Documents and Forms Required for Company Name Change

The required documents for a company name change include:

• ➜ Board resolution approving the name change
• ➜ Application form for name change approval
• ➜ Updated company documents
• ➜ Memorandum of Association & Articles of Association

Common Reasons for Change of Company Name

Companies may opt to change their names for various reasons, including:

• ➜ As part of a merger or acquisition, when two businesses merge or acquire one another, their identities shift significantly and must reflect this in their naming conventions. If businesses opt to rebrand themselves they might change the name to better align with new strategies or better represent current offerings.
• ➜ An organization may consider changing its name when expanding into new markets to better engage local audiences or avoid culturally sensitive situations. Legal or regulatory requirements may also necessitate this step - for instance when its structure or ownership changes.
• ➜ Name changes may be necessary in order to avoid legal proceedings if your name infringes upon another entity's trademark.

Timeline for Change of Company Name

The timeline for changing a company name, also known as rebranding, can vary depending on the complexity of the process, the efficiency of the government agency involved, and the company’s own preparedness. However, a general timeline for a straightforward name change process might look like this: