How to Choose a Company Name That Gets Approved by MCA

Your company name is the first thing customers see, and it must also pass the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) naming rules. A rejected name delays incorporation and can mean starting again. Here is how to pick a name that works for your brand and gets approved the first time.

Basic naming rules

• The name must not be identical or too similar to an existing company or LLP.
• It must not conflict with a registered trademark.
• It must not be offensive or suggest a connection with the government without approval.
• Certain words – like Bank, Insurance, Stock Exchange, National or Board – need approval from the relevant regulator.
• The name must end correctly: “Private Limited”, “(OPC) Private Limited” or “LLP”.

Tips for a name that gets approved

• Use a distinctive word. Coined or unusual words are more likely to be approved than common dictionary words.
• Add a descriptive word that matches your objects. For example, “Technologies” for an IT business or “Foods” for a food business.
• Avoid plurals and spelling tricks. Adding an “s” or changing a letter of an existing name usually leads to rejection.
• Avoid generic combinations such as “India Global Solutions” that many businesses already use.
• Keep it easy to spell and remember. It will appear on your website, invoices and GST registration.

Check before you apply

1. Search the MCA company and LLP name database.
2. Search the trademark registry for similar marks in your business class.
3. Check that the matching domain name and social media handles are available.

How name reservation works

A name can be reserved through the RUN (Reserve Unique Name) service or directly as part of the SPICe+ incorporation form. You can propose up to two names in RUN. If the MCA raises a query, you can respond or suggest alternatives within the permitted time.

Protect the name after incorporation

Company registration does not give you trademark rights. To stop others from using a similar brand, file a trademark application for your name and logo as soon as possible.

Need help? See our company registration, company name change and trademark registration services.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. How many names can I propose?

Up to two names can be proposed in a RUN application; more options can be tried through resubmission.

Q2. Is company name approval the same as a trademark?

No. Name approval only lets you incorporate with that name. Trademark registration protects the brand.

Q3. Can I change my company name later?

Yes, by passing a special resolution and getting MCA approval for the new name.

Q4. Why was my proposed name rejected?

Common reasons are similarity to an existing company or trademark, or use of restricted words.