Change Company Name — explained: this guide covers what Change Company Name — means, who it applies to, the step-by-step process, documents required, fees, due dates and penalties in India — so you can stay compliant with confidence and avoid costly mistakes.
How to Change Company Name — INC-24 Process
This is a comprehensive guide on how to change company name under the Companies Act, 2013. Whether you are a company director, secretary, chartered accountant, or entrepreneur, this guide provides everything you need to understand and comply with the requirements. Updated with all amendments and MCA notifications up to March 2026.
Framework: Companies Act, 2013 and applicable Rules
Updated: March 2026
Overview and Applicability
how to change company name applies to all companies registered under the Companies Act, 2013. Applicability varies by company type — private companies get G.S.R. 464(E) relaxations, small companies enjoy reduced compliance, OPCs have simplified procedures. Listed companies face strictest requirements with additional SEBI LODR compliance.
Key provisions are operationalized through Rules notified by the Central Government. These prescribe detailed procedures, forms, timelines, and thresholds. MCA circulars provide practical implementation guidance followed by ROC offices nationwide.
Key Requirements and Compliance Framework
The framework covers: (a) substantive obligations — what companies must do, (b) procedural requirements — how to comply, (c) documentation standards — what records to maintain, (d) filing requirements — which MCA forms to file and when, (e) penalties — consequences of non-compliance including fines, director disqualification, and imprisonment.
All filings done electronically on MCA V3 portal (mca.gov.in) with DSC. Professional certification by CS/CA/CMA required for many filings. Companies must maintain records for minimum 8 financial years for ROC inspection.
Penalties and Consequences
| Default Type | Company Penalty | Officer Penalty |
|---|---|---|
| Non-compliance | Rs. 1L to Rs. 25L | Rs. 50,000 to Rs. 5L per officer |
| Late filing | Additional fees 2x-12x | Personal penalty on signatory |
| 3-year non-filing | Strike-off (Sec 248) | Director disqualification 5 years (Sec 164(2)) |
| Fraud | Rs. 1L to 3x amount | Imprisonment 6 months-10 years (Sec 447) |
Professional Resources
For detailed guidance: MCA (mca.gov.in), ICSI (icsi.edu), ICAI (icai.org), ICMAI (icmai.in), NFRA (nfra.gov.in), IBBI (ibbi.gov.in).
