LLP REGISTRATION
Are you a business owner or an entrepreneur planning to start a business in India? Have you heard about Limited Liability Partnerships (LLPs) and the benefits they offer? LLPs have become increasingly popular in India as they combine the advantages of a partnership and a private limited company. However, before you jump into registering your LLP, there are some important aspects that you need to be aware of to ensure a smooth and hassle-free registration process. In this blog post, we will discuss everything you need to know about LLP registration in India and how it can benefit your business. So, sit back, relax and let’s dive in!
1. LLP Registration and Deed Drafting Process in India
Are you considering starting a business in India? Limited Liability Partnership (LLP) could be a good option for you as it provides the benefits of a company and the flexibility of a partnership firm. To register an LLP in India, you will need a minimum of two partners and no upper limit. An LLP agreement will define the rights and duties of the partners. One partner is not responsible for the misconduct and negligence of the other partner. Registering a business name with the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) is the first step and takes about 24-48 hours.
When proposing a company name, ensure it is not identical or similar to an existing one. Also, it must include a word that denotes the activity undertaken. Trademarks are registered under 45 distinct trademark classes. Search for any identical or similar brand or logo registered before filing an application to avoid rejection by the Trademark Registrar. Differentiate between a Proprietorship, LLP, and a Company before registering an entity.
To form an LLP, at least two individuals called Designated Partners, are appointed. These individuals must be aged 18 or above with a valid Indian address. Foreign nationals, foreign corporate bodies, and limited liability partnerships can also become Designated Partners. The cost of registering an LLP depends on various factors. Every LLP is required to have a GST registration and file GST returns. Designated Partners must apply for Digital Signature Certificates (DSC) and Designated Partner Identification Numbers (DPIN). Incorporating an LLP takes up to 30 days.
Eligibility criteria for LLP registration
Are you looking to set up a Limited Liability Partnership (LLP) in India? Here are some important eligibility criteria that you need to keep in mind before beginning the registration process.
– Minimum of two partners: At least two partners are required to set up an LLP in India. There is no upper limit to the number of partners that can be appointed.
– Designated partners: Among the partners, there must be at least two designated partners. These can be individuals or bodies corporate, and must be aged 18 or above with a valid Indian address. Foreign nationals, foreign corporate bodies and LLPs can also be designated partners.
– Contribution towards shared capital: Each partner must have an agreed contribution towards the shared capital of the LLP.
– Authorized capital: The LLP should have an authorized capital of at least ₹1 lakh.
– Resident designated partner: At least one designated partner should be an Indian resident.
Ensure that you have all the necessary documents such as PAN card or passport, Aadhar card or identification documents for foreign nationals, and a no-objection certificate from the property owner if applicable. By fulfilling these eligibility criteria, you can successfully register your LLP in India and enjoy the benefits of limited liability and flexibility.
Step-by-step process for registering an LLP in India
Are you an entrepreneur looking to register an LLP in India? Here is a step-by-step guide for you.
First, apply for a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) from a certified agency as it is required for various steps in the registration process. Register as a user on the MCA website and fill up the DIR-3 form to obtain a Designated Partner Identification Number (DPIN).
Next, reserve a name for your LLP using the Form-1 and get it approved by the Registrar. Keep in mind that the name cannot be identical or similar to an existing company name and must include a word that denotes the activity undertaken.
After reserving the name, incorporate your LLP using the Form-2 and wait for approval from the Registrar. This process may take some time depending on the submission of relevant documents.
To avoid any legal complications, draft an LLP agreement that includes the rights and duties of partners. Once the agreement is signed, file it with the Registrar of Companies.
Lastly, obtain a GST registration if your LLP deals with goods or services and start filing GST returns regularly. Congratulations, your LLP is now registered in India!
Post-registration compliances and obligations for LLPs in India
Once you have successfully registered your LLP in India, there are certain post-registration compliances and obligations that you must fulfill. These are important to ensure that your LLP runs smoothly and remains compliant with all legal and regulatory requirements.
First and foremost, you must obtain a PAN and TAN for your LLP, which are required for tax-related purposes. You must also open a bank account in the name of your LLP and complete any necessary registrations or licenses required for your specific business.
LLPs are required to maintain proper books of accounts and file annual returns with the Registrar of Companies (RoC) within 60 days of the end of each financial year. These returns must include financial statements, such as a balance sheet and profit and loss statement, along with other required documents.
LLPs must also comply with GST regulations if their turnover exceeds the prescribed limit. This involves obtaining a GST registration, collecting and remitting taxes, and filing regular GST returns.
Finally, it is important to keep accurate records of all LLP meetings and resolutions, as well as any changes to the LLP agreement or partners. Any changes must be reported to the RoC within 30 days.
Overall, post-registration compliances for LLPs in India involve maintaining proper records, filing annual returns, complying with tax regulations, and keeping the RoC informed of any changes. By fulfilling these obligations, you can ensure that your LLP remains compliant and operates successfully.
2. Advantages and Features of LLP in India
Looking to register an LLP in India? It’s a smart move! Here are some advantages and features of LLP in India that you should know:
– Limited liability: The biggest advantage of an LLP is that the liability of its partners is limited to the capital contributed by them. It means that your personal assets are protected in case of any losses incurred by the business.
– Separate legal entity: An LLP is considered a separate legal entity from its partners. Thus, it has a distinct entity that differentiates it from a partnership firm.
– Low cost and fewer compliances: The cost of forming an LLP is low, and it requires fewer compliances as compared to a company, making it a popular choice for startups and small businesses.
– No minimum capital required: LLPs can be formed without any minimum capital contribution, which means that partners can invest as per their capacity.
– Perpetual succession: An LLP has perpetual succession, meaning it continues to exist even if one or more partners resign or pass away.
– Flexible management structure: LLP structure allows the flexibility to appoint different partners to manage the day-to-day operations of the business, making it easier to manage in comparison to a partnership firm.
So, what are you waiting for? Register your LLP in India today and enjoy these benefits!
3. LLP Agreement and Partner Responsibilities
LLP registration in India provides entrepreneurs with an advantageous form of organization. An LLP combines the benefits of a partnership and a company, giving the partners limited liability and the LLP perpetual succession. When starting an LLP, a minimum of two partners is required, and there are no restrictions on the maximum number of partners. At least two designated partners are necessary, and one must be a resident of India. The designated partners are responsible for complying with the LLP Act 2008 and the LLP agreement.
Once the LLP is registered, an LLP agreement is signed by all the partners. The LLP agreement specifies the rights and responsibilities of each partner, as well as the rules for the management of the LLP. The designated partners have additional responsibilities, such as maintaining the compliance of the LLP and filing annual returns and statements of accounts and solvency.
The LLP agreement also defines the contributions made by each partner, and the liability of each partner is limited to their contribution. This means if the LLP incurs any losses, the partners are not personally liable for them. Additionally, an LLP has low compliance requirements, with only two statements required to be filed annually.
In conclusion, registering an LLP in India is a wise choice for entrepreneurs due to the advantages it provides. By following the necessary steps, including obtaining digital signature certificates and filing the Fillip form, entrepreneurs can establish an LLP with ease. By signing an LLP agreement and understanding their responsibilities, partners can operate with limited liability while enjoying the flexibility offered by this form of organization.
4. Company Name Approval Process in India
Are you planning to register an LLP in India? One of the important processes is obtaining name approval from the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA). Here’s what you need to know about the company name approval process:
– The process takes around 24-48 hours.
– For a private limited company, the name must end with “private limited”.
– For an LLP, the name must end with “LLP”.
– Section 8 companies can end with words like “foundation”, “association”, or “institution”.
– The proposed name must not be identical or similar to an existing company name.
– The name must include a word that denotes the activity undertaken.
To conduct a trademark search, you can use the tool provided by the Office of the Controller General of Patents, Designs, and Trade Marks. There are 45 trademark classes to choose from, each representing a distinct type of good or service.
When comparing a proprietorship, an LLP, and a company, the LLP stands out as a hybrid combination with features similar to a partnership and liabilities similar to a company. To form an LLP, at least two designated partners must be appointed. The time taken for incorporation depends on the submission of relevant documents.
5. Trademark Classes and Search Process
When registering your LLP in India, it’s imperative to understand the importance of trademark classes and conducting a thorough trademark search. Here are some key points to keep in mind:
– Trademark is divided into 45 different classes as per the NICE classification for a trademark that represents a distinct set of goods and services.
– Choosing the right class of trademark is essential as the marks’ wrong classification can hamper the registration process.
– Trademark applications can be filed in more than one class if the business engages in various goods or services.
– Conducting a trademark search is necessary to avoid discrepancies before filing a trademark registration application.
– Use the trademark class finder tool to find the correct trademark class for your goods or services from over 80,000 goods and services.
By understanding the trademark classes and search process, you’ll be able to register your LLP with a unique and recognizable trademark. It will not only help create goodwill and trust among consumers and regulatory bodies but also separate your brand from its peers. So, invest in trademark registration and protect your LLP’s intellectual property rights.
6. Proprietorship vs LLP vs Company Comparison
Starting a business is an exciting journey, but choosing the right business entity can be confusing. Proprietorship, LLP, and Companies are the most popular types in India, each with its own sets of advantages and disadvantages. Before making a decision, it is essential to know the differences between these entities.
Proprietorship is the best option for a single owner, as it’s easy to set up and requires minimal compliance. However, running cost liability belongs to the proprietor.
LLPs offer limited liability protection to its partners. An audit is required only if the turnover is greater than Rs. 40 lakh or paid-up capital is more than Rs. 25 lakh. The compliance cost is also lower than a Company.
Companies, such as Private Limited and OPC, offer higher credibility that makes it easier to raise capital or attract key employees with employee stock option plans (ESOPs). However, setting up incurs higher costs and longer compliances.
Private Limited Companies also require mandatory filings with the Registrar of Companies and paying taxes at a flat rate of 30% on profits. On the other hand, LLP offers a better tax structure with the lowest tax burden.
In conclusion, Proprietorship is ideal for an individual seeking ease of operation with fewer compliances. LLP is beneficial for small businesses with low compliance costs and general partnership advantages. Companies, particularly Private Limited, work better for businesses planning to raise capital, gain credibility and expand in the future.
7. Designated Partner Requirements and DPINs
Designated Partners play a crucial role in the functioning of a Limited Liability Partnership (LLP). Here are the requirements and guidelines for becoming a Designated Partner in India, and obtaining a Designated Partner Identification Number (DPIN).
To become a Designated Partner, you must obtain a DPIN from the Ministry of Corporate Affairs. This is a registration number that identifies you as a Designated Partner.
To obtain a DPIN, you need to fill out the electronic Form DIR-3, which is available on the MCA website, and acquire a Class 2 digital signature.
You must also provide identity proof documents and address proof documents when uploading the Form DIR-3 on the MCA website. Foreign nationals must submit their passport as identity proof.
After filling out and uploading the Form DIR-3, you need to make an electronic payment on the MCA website, and your DPIN will be allotted to you.
Designated Partners are responsible for fulfilling compliance obligations related to income tax, GST, and the LLP Act. They must also sign all e-forms filed with the Registrar of Companies, maintain accounting books, and produce documents when required.
Remember, every LLP must appoint at least two designated partners, and at least one must be a resident of India. Non-compliance can result in penalties and punishments under the LLP Act.
8. Digital Signature Certificate and Incorporation Timeline
Are you planning to start a Limited Liability Partnership (LLP) in India? Here’s what you need to know about obtaining a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) and the timeline for incorporation.
Before initiating the registration process, apply for the digital signature of the designated partners of the proposed LLP. This is because all the documents for LLP are filed online and are required to be digitally signed.
The timeline for incorporation of an LLP involves the following steps
1. Name reservation: The first step is to reserve a name for your LLP by filing eForm 1.
2. Incorporate LLP: After reserving a name, file eForm 2 to incorporate your new LLP.
3. LLP Agreement: Within 30 days of incorporation, file LLP Agreement with the registrar in eForm 3.
It’s important to note that an existing partnership firm or private/unlisted public company can also be converted into an LLP. In case the conversion application is rejected, the applicant can opt to file an appeal.
Remember, every partner must inform the LLP of any change in his/her name or address within 15 days, and the LLP must file such details with the Registrar within 30 days of the change in Form 4.
Overall, obtaining a Digital Signature Certificate and incorporating an LLP can be done in a reasonable amount of time and with minimal capital contribution.
10. Documents Required for LLP Registration in India
Have you decided to register an LLP in India? Before starting the process, make sure you have all the required documents in hand. Here’s a list of documents you need to submit for LLP registration in India.
1. Documents of both partners and partnership firm: At the time of registering LLP, both partners and partnership firm documents should be submitted. All partners must provide their PAN card, and one identity proof out of Voter’s ID, Passport, Driver’s license or Aadhar card.
2. Residence Proof: Latest bank statement, telephone bill, mobile bill, electricity bill or gas bill should be submitted as the residence proof. The document must not be more than two months old and must contain the name of the partner as mentioned in PAN card.
3. Passport: In the case of foreign nationals / NRIs, passport is compulsory. Passport has to be notarised or apostilled by the relevant authorities in the country of such foreign nationals and NRI.
4. Proof of Registered Office: If the registered office is taken on rent, a rent agreement and a no objection certificate from the landlord has to be submitted. Proof of registered office must be submitted during registration or within 30 days of incorporation.
5. Digital Signature Certificate: One designated partner needs to opt for a digital signature certificate since all documents and applications will be digitally signed by the authorised signatory.
Complete the LLP registration process by downloading form fillip for offline DSC affixing, affixing DSC of designated partner and practicing professional on form FILLIP, and payment of online ROC fees. With proper documentation, your LLP registration certificate can usually be received in 10 to 15 days.
11. Frequently Asked Questions
Are you planning to register your LLP in India? Here are the most frequently asked questions about LLP formation in India:
What is LLP?
LLP stands for Limited Liability Partnership, an alternative corporate business form that combines the benefits of limited liability of a company and the flexibility of a partnership. The LLP has separate legal entity status, can enter into contracts, and hold property in its name. Liability of the partners is limited to their agreed contribution in the LLP.
How many partners are required to start an LLP in India?
A minimum of two partners are required to start an LLP in India.
What is the registration procedure for LLP in India?
The LLP registration process includes obtaining a Director Identification Number (DIN), getting the company name approved, and filing incorporation documents. Fees for digital signature, DIN application, and incorporation document filing apply.
Who can become a partner in an LLP?
Any individual or body corporate may become a partner in an LLP. However, a person deemed by a court of law as of unsound mind is ineligible.
Can an existing partnership firm be converted into LLP in India?
Yes, an existing partnership firm can be converted into LLP by filing Form 17 and Form 2 with the Ministry of Corporate Affairs.
What are the benefits of LLP formation in India?
LLP formation in India enables a blend of company and partnership features, such as limited liability and flexibility, and allows for professional expertise and financial risk-taking in an innovative and efficient manner.
Registering your LLP in India may seem daunting, but with our expert guidance, the process can be smooth and hassle-free. Contact us today for a free consultation.
12. Disadvantages of LLP registration
LLP registration in India may sound like the perfect option for your business. However, before making a decision, it’s important to understand the disadvantages of LLP registration. Here are some things to keep in mind.
Firstly, even if your LLP has no activity, it must still file an income tax return and MCA annual return each year. Failure to do so can result in penalties which can add up over time.
Secondly, unlike a private limited company, an LLP does not have the concept of equity or shareholding. As a result, angel investors, HNIs, venture capital, and private equity funds cannot invest in your LLP as shareholders. This may limit your funding options.
Lastly, LLPs are taxed at a 30% rate regardless of turnover, while companies with a turnover of up to Rs. 250 crores are taxed at a 25% rate. This means that you may have a higher tax liability with an LLP.
In conclusion, while LLP registration may provide certain benefits, it’s important to weigh the potential disadvantages to make the best decision for your business.