A Private Limited Company combines aspects of corporate and partnership structures, hence providing shareholders with limited liability. The following are some of the main features:
Shareholders are liable only to the extent of their investment in the company, thus keeping their personal assets safe from business debts and liabilities.
A private limited company has its own legal personality that is separate from its owners. In this regard, it can hold property, borrow money, sue and be sued.
Ownership in a company is denominated by shares which are held by shareholders. The control of the company is vested with directors who may or may not also be shareholders.
Shares in a private limited company are not freely transferable on stock exchange markets like those of public companies; instead they are subject to restrictions that have been spelt out in the Articles of Association (AOA) of such companies.
Unlike public companies, private limited companies have reduced obligations regarding detailed financial information placed before them for scrutiny by members of the public.
The number of steps that need to be taken before registering a Private Limited Company in India is controlled by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA). The following is a detailed outline of the process:
A DSC should be there for all proposed directors and subscribers to the Memorandum of Association (MoA) and Articles of Association (AoA). Certified agencies provide digital signature certificates.
Directors have to possess DIN. This can be done online by using SPICe+ form (incorporation form), and attaching proof of identity and address.
Suggest an original name for your company, check its availability, and ensure it in conformity with MCA’s guidelines on naming companies. You can apply for name reservation via ‘RUN’(Reserve Unique Name) facility or directly through SPICe+ form.
Draft the Memorandum of Association (MoA) and Articles of Association (AoA), which set out the objectives of the company as well as its rules on internal management.
Enclose relevant documents:
Also, while filling the SPICe+ form, there is an option to apply for Permanent Account Number (PAN) for the Company by a way of TDS/TCS or any other mode as may be prescribed by CBDT (Central Board of Direct Taxes) in future.
Pay registration fees or stamp duty depending on the state where incorporation takes place and authorized share capital.
The MCA will scrutinize the document submitted. If satisfied with them, it will issue a certificate which confirms that a company has been incorporated containing a unique Corporate Identity Number (CIN).
When incorporated, companies must meet several post-registration necessities such as opening bank accounts in their name, obtaining GST Registration if applicable, etc.
Once incorporated, the company needs to comply with various post-registration requirements, including opening a bank account in the company’s name, obtaining GST registration (if applicable), and filing annual returns.
Registering a Private Limited Company in India offers several benefits, including limited liability protection for shareholders, ease of raising capital through equity, a distinct legal entity status, perpetual succession, and enhanced credibility with customers, suppliers, and financial institutions. Additionally, it allows for easy transfer of ownership and potential tax advantages.