Central government approval for name reservation

To obtain Central Government approval for name reservation under the Companies Act, 2013, you must follow the procedures prescribed by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA). The process is handled by the Central Registration Centre (CRC).

1. Methods of Name Reservation

There are two primary methods for reserving a company name:

• SPICe+ Part A (Recommended for New Companies): This is the integrated web service used for new company incorporation. It allows you to reserve a name and proceed directly to incorporation in the same workflow.

• RUN (Reserve Unique Name): This web service is primarily used by existing companies looking to change their current name.

2. Step-by-Step Procedure

1. Preparation & Name Formulation:

   • Ensure your proposed name is unique and does not resemble any existing company or trademark (check against the MCA database and the IP India Trademark Search Portal).

   • Comply with naming guidelines under Rule 8, 8A, and 8B of the Companies (Incorporation) Rules, 2014 (e.g., avoid offensive words, generic terms without unique prefixes, or words suggesting government patronage).

2. Filing the Application:

   • Log in to the MCA V3 Portal.

   • Navigate to MCA Services > Company e-Filing > Incorporation Services.

   • Select SPICe+ to start a new application.

   • Fill in Part A with your proposed name(s), company type, and business activity. You can submit up to two proposed names in order of preference.

   • Use the "Auto Check" feature to verify compliance and availability.

3. Payment:

   • Pay the government fee of ₹1,000 through the portal. Note that this fee is non-refundable, even if the application is rejected.

4. CRC Examination:

   • The Central Registration Centre (CRC) will examine your application for compliance with the Companies Act.

   • If the name is approved, you will receive a communication via email.

   • If the name is rejected or requires clarification, you may be marked for "Resubmission." You generally have 15 days to resubmit the application with corrections.

3. Validity and Extensions

• Validity: Once approved, the name is reserved for 20 days for a new company and 60 days for an existing company changing its name.

• Extensions: If you cannot complete incorporation within the initial period, you can apply for an extension upon payment of additional fees (up to a maximum of 60 days total).

Summary of Key Points

• Authority: Central Registration Centre (CRC).

• Primary Tool: SPICe+ Part A for new companies; RUN for name changes.

• Cost: ₹1,000 (non-refundable).

• Rules: Must comply with Section 4 of the Companies Act and Rules 8, 8A, and 8B.

• Validity: 20 days (New) / 60 days (Change of Name), with options for extensions.