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RUN-LLP eForm (Reserve Unique Name For LLP)
The RUN-LLP eForm (Reserve Unique Name-LLP) is the web-based facility provided by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) on its V3 portal for reserving a name for a Limited Liability Partnership. Governed by Rule 18 of the LLP Rules, 2009, this service streamlines the name approval process, ensuring that proposed names are distinctive and do not conflict with existing trademarks or entities under the Trade Marks Act, 1999.
Unlike the comprehensive FiLLiP incorporation form, the RUN-LLP service is a preliminary step strictly for name reservation. As indicated in the form's footer, once a request is submitted, it is examined for feasibility by the Central Registration Centre (CRC). If approved, the name is reserved for a validity period of 3 months (90 days), during which the incorporation documents must be filed.
This guide breaks down the V3 fields, from selecting the correct "Purpose of filing" to handling RSUB (Resubmission) queries, providing a practitioner-grade walkthrough for professionals and business owners.
Disclaimer: Informational only; not legal advice. Not an official MCA form. Consult a professional.
What the RUN-LLP eForm is and when to use it
The RUN-LLP (Reserve Unique Name - Limited Liability Partnership) is a web-based utility on the MCA V3 Portal designed exclusively for reserving a name. It simplifies the process by checking the availability of your proposed name against existing LLPs, companies, and trademarks before you proceed with full incorporation or conversion.
When to Use This Form
As detailed in Field 1 ("Purpose of filing") of the form template, you must select one of the following four scenarios:
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New Incorporation: You are starting a fresh LLP and want to secure a name before filing incorporation papers.
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Conversion of Firm into LLP: You are converting an existing Partnership Firm into an LLP structure.
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Conversion of Private Company/Unlisted Public Company into LLP: You are shifting a corporate entity into an LLP.
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Change of Name of Existing LLP: You are rebranding an already registered LLP (this requires the LLPIN to be entered in Field 2(b)).
RUN-LLP vs. FiLLiP: Which one should you choose?
While RUN-LLP is the standard route for name reservation, it is not always mandatory. You have two options:
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Option A (The Safe Route): File RUN-LLP first. This allows you to "test" up to 2 proposed names. If approved, the name is reserved for 3 months (90 days), giving you ample time to prepare the incorporation documents.
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Option B (The Fast Track): Skip RUN-LLP and apply for the name directly inside the FiLLiP Form (Form for incorporation of Limited Liability Partnership). However, if the name is rejected in FiLLiP, the entire incorporation form may need to be redone/resubmitted.
Key Rule: For Change of Name of an existing LLP, using RUN-LLP is mandatory. For New Incorporations, it is optional but recommended to avoid rejection of the main incorporation dossier.
RUN-LLP vs. Company Name Routes (RUN/SPICe+) - Avoid Misfiling
A common and costly mistake on the MCA V3 portal is confusing the RUN-LLP form with the standard RUN service or SPICe+ Part A. While all three relate to naming a business, they serve mutually exclusive legal structures. Filing the wrong form will result in a rejection and the forfeiture of your filing fees.
The Three "Name Reservation" Paths
|
Feature |
RUN-LLP (This Form) |
SPICe+ Part A |
RUN (Web Service) |
|
Entity Type |
LLP (Limited Liability Partnership) |
Company (Pvt Ltd, OPC, Section 8) |
Company (Existing Only) |
|
Usage |
New LLP incorporation or Name Change of existing LLP. |
New Company Incorporation only. |
Change of Name for an existing Company only. |
|
Result |
Reserves name for 3 months. |
Reserves name for 20 days. |
Reserves name for 60 days. |
|
Form Fee |
₹200 |
₹1,000 |
₹1,000 |
How to Verify You Are on the Right Form
Look at Field 1 ("Purpose of filing") in the form template you uploaded. It lists specific LLP-only options:
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New incorporation
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Conversion of a firm into an LLP
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Conversion of a private company/unlisted public company into an LLP
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Change of name of existing LLP
If you are trying to register a Private Limited Company, do not use this form. You must use SPICe+ Part A. Using RUN-LLP to reserve a company name (e.g., ending in "Pvt Ltd") is technically impossible, as the system expects an "LLP" suffix and will reject the application or block you at the incorporation stage.
Where RUN-LLP fits in the LLP registration flow (before FiLLiP)
The LLP registration process follows a strict sequential order on the MCA V3 portal. The RUN-LLP eForm acts as the "Gatekeeper" stage. It is designed to secure the name before you invest time and money into drafting the detailed Subscriber Sheets and Agreements required for the main incorporation form.
The Sequential Workflow
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Step 1: Name Reservation (RUN-LLP)
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You submit the RUN-LLP request with up to 2 proposed names.
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The Central Registration Centre (CRC) scrutinizes the name for resemblance to existing brands or phonetic similarities to other entities.
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Outcome: If feasible, you receive an approval email from the CRC. This approval comes with a Service Request Number (SRN).
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Step 2: The "Golden Window" (90 Days)
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Once the name is approved via RUN-LLP, it is reserved for your specific SRN for a period of 3 months (90 days).
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You must file the incorporation documents within this window. If you miss this deadline, the name reservation lapses, and you must file RUN-LLP again with fresh fees.
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Step 3: Incorporation (FiLLiP)
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You proceed to file Form FiLLiP (Form for incorporation of Limited Liability Partnership).
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Instead of applying for a name inside FiLLiP, you will simply enter the SRN generated by your approved RUN-LLP form. This "locks" the pre-approved name to your incorporation application, significantly reducing the risk of rejection.
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Practitioner's Tip: While the system allows you to skip Step 1 and apply for the name directly inside Step 3 (FiLLiP), this is risky. If the name is rejected inside FiLLiP, the entire form—including all digital signatures and notarized attachments—must often be redone. The RUN-LLP First approach de-risks the process.
Eligibility & pre-requisites before opening the eForm
Before you navigate to the MCA V3 Portal to open the RUN-LLP form, ensure you have the following ready. Unlike the old PDF-based forms, the V3 system is a real-time web form, so preparation is key to avoiding session timeouts.
1. MCA V3 Account (Mandatory)
You cannot access the RUN-LLP service as a guest. You must have a valid login for the MCA V3 Portal.
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User Category: A simple "Registered User" account is sufficient for filing RUN-LLP. You do not strictly need a "Business User" account at this stage, although upgrading is recommended for later steps (like FiLLiP).
2. No DSC or DPIN Required (Yet)
One of the biggest advantages of the RUN-LLP facility is its low barrier to entry:
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No Digital Signature Certificate (DSC): You do not need to affix a DSC to submit this form. The submission is validated through your portal login credentials.
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No DPIN (Designated Partner ID Number): You can reserve a name without having any Designated Partners registered yet. You will apply for their DPINs later in the FiLLiP form.
3. The "Homework" Checklist
To fill Fields 3 and 4 accurately , have these details on hand:
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Industrial Activity (NIC Code): You need to know the Main NIC Code (National Industrial Classification) that matches your business activity. The form requires you to "Search and select" this.
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Two Proposed Names: Have up to two options ready in order of preference.
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Preliminary Trademark Check: Before proposing a name, perform a free public search on the IP India website and the MCA master data. If your proposed name conflicts with an existing trademark or company, the CRC will reject it.
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Existing Entity Details (If Converting): If you selected "Conversion" in Field 1, you must have the CIN (Corporate Identity Number) or LLPIN of the existing entity ready.
Cases needing prior regulator approval (Banking/NBFC/Insurance/University, etc.)
While the RUN-LLP form allows you to propose almost any name, certain "sensitive" words trigger an automatic flag by the CRC. These words imply a connection to regulated industries or the government.
Per Rule 18(2) of the LLP Rules, 2009, you cannot use the words listed below unless you have prior written approval (NOC) from the respective regulator.
1. Restricted Words & Required Approvals
If your proposed name contains any of the following, you must attach the regulatory approval in the "Attachment" field of the RUN-LLP form.
|
Restricted Word(s) in Name |
Regulator / Authority |
Required Document |
|
Bank, Banking, Banker |
RBI (Reserve Bank of India) |
In-principle approval/NOC |
|
Insurance, Insurer |
IRDAI |
NOC from Insurance Regulatory Authority |
|
Mutual Fund, Venture Capital, Asset Management, Stock Exchange |
SEBI |
In-principle approval from SEBI |
|
Nidhi |
MCA / Nidhi Rules |
declaration of status (rare for LLPs) |
|
University |
UGC / Education Ministry |
Proof of University status (LLPs generally cannot be Universities) |
|
Chartered Accountant, Company Secretary, Advocate |
ICAI / ICSI / Bar Council |
NOC from the respective professional council |
|
Board, Commission, Authority, National, Bureau |
Central/State Govt. |
Proof of Govt. patronage (Almost always rejected for private LLPs) |
Critical Note: For financial activities (Banking/Insurance), LLPs are generally not the preferred structure by regulators like RBI. Ensure you have the approval before spending ₹200 on this form, as rejection is highly likely without it.
2. How to Attach the Approval
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Locate the "Attachment" section (Field 6 in the form template).
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Click "Choose File" to upload the PDF of the regulator's NOC.
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Pro Tip: If you have a trademark NOC (e.g., from an existing company allowing you to use a similar name), attach it here as well.
eForm Fields & Data Required
The RUN-LLP V3 form is a dynamic web-based form. Unlike the old static PDFs, fields may appear or disappear based on your selection in Field 1. Below is a breakdown of the critical data points you must have ready, matching the fields visible in the form template.
1. Purpose of Filing (Field 1)
This is your first selection. It dictates the rest of the form flow.
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New Incorporation: Select this for a brand new LLP.
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Conversion: If selected, you must provide the CIN (for companies) or existing details for a firm.
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Change of Name: Requires the existing LLPIN (Field 2b).
2. Industrial Activity & Objects (Field 3)
The CRC uses this section to check if your name aligns with your business activity. A name like "TechSolutions LLP" will be rejected if your objects are "Agriculture".
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3(a) Main NIC Code: You cannot type this manually. You must use the "Search and select" feature to find the 5-digit NIC code that best matches your primary business activity.
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3(b) Description of Main Sub-class: This auto-populates based on the NIC code, but you should review it to ensuring it matches your core business intent.
3. Proposed Names (Field 4)
You have two slots: Proposed Name 1 and Proposed Name 2.
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Priority: The CRC considers "Proposed Name 1" first. If approved, "Name 2" is ignored. If "Name 1" is rejected, they check "Name 2".
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Format: Enter the full name without the suffix "LLP" (the system usually adds this, or you can add it, but ensure consistency).
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Example: Enter "BlueSky Consulting" (not just "BlueSky").
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Significance: While the template snippet primarily shows the "Description" field, standard practice for unique names (e.g., coined words) is to attach a brief note explaining the name's significance in the Attachments section if it’s not immediately obvious.
4. Contact Details
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Note: The form template does not have a manual entry field for email or phone. The CRC will communicate the approval or rejection solely to the email address and mobile number registered to your MCA V3 User Profile.
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Action: Ensure your V3 profile details are up-to-date before you click "Submit".
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Attachments inside the eForm (NOC/approvals/resolutions) — when and how to add
The Attachments section in the RUN-LLP form is technically optional; you can submit the form without it, but it is legally mandatory for specific cases. This field is your primary channel to provide evidence to the Central Registration Centre (CRC) examiner that you have the right to use a specific name.
1. When Attachments Are Mandatory
You must upload supporting documents in the following scenarios:
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Trademark/Entity NOC: If your proposed name includes a brand name, surname, or key term belonging to an existing company or trademark owner, you must attach a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from that owner.
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Example: If you are setting up a subsidiary named "ABC Logistics LLP" and "ABC Ltd" already exists, "ABC Ltd" must provide a Board Resolution/NOC authorizing the use of "ABC".
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Sectoral Approvals: As detailed in the previous section, if your name includes restricted words (e.g., "Bank", "Architecture"), attach the in-principle approval from the regulator (RBI, Council of Architecture, etc.).
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Conversion of Company to LLP: You must attach a Board Resolution from the existing company resolving to convert to an LLP and applying for the name.
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Change of Name: For an existing LLP changing its name, attach the Resolution of Partners authorizing the application.
2. How to Upload Correctly
As seen in the form template, the interface provides a simple "Choose File" button. Follow these practitioner rules to ensure your attachment isn't rejected:
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Format: The system accepts PDF files only.
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The "One File" Rule: The RUN-LLP V3 interface often provides a limited number of upload slots.
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File Size: Keep the file size reasonable (ideally under 2 MB) to prevent upload errors or timeouts.
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Management: If you upload the wrong file, use the "Remove" button to clear the slot and re-upload. You can also use "Download" to verify that the uploaded file is readable.
MCA name policy (Rule 18), distinctiveness, prohibited/restricted words, TM conflicts
The "black box" of the RUN-LLP process is the Central Registration Centre (CRC) decision-making criteria. Their examination is strictly governed by Rule 18 of the Limited Liability Partnership Rules, 2009. Understanding this rule is the single best way to avoid the "Resubmission" (RSUB) loop.
1. The "Distinctiveness" Test
A name will be rejected if it is identical or too nearly resembles the name of an existing Company, LLP, or a registered Trademark. The CRC does not just look for exact matches; it checks for:
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Phonetic Similarity: "Techno Sol" and "Tekno Soul" are considered the same.
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Spelling Variations: "Color" vs. "Colour" or "Fast" vs. "Phast" does not make a name unique.
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Trivial Changes: Adding generic words like "The," "New," "Group," "Industry," or "India" to an existing name usually fails the distinctiveness test.
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Example: If "Titanium Logistics LLP" exists, "New Titanium Logistics LLP" will be rejected.
2. Trade Mark Conflicts
Before approving a name, the CRC system runs a check against the Trade Marks Registry.
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The Rule: You cannot reserve a name that violates the Trade Marks Act, 1999.
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The Conflict: If your proposed name contains a word that is a registered trademark (or a pending application) in a relevant class, it will be flagged.
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The Exception: You can override this only if you provide a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the trademark owner (as discussed in the "Attachments" section).
3. Prohibited & Restricted Words (Undesirable Names)
Under Rule 18(2), certain names are deemed "undesirable" and are prohibited either completely or without specific approval:
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Connection to Government: Words like National, Union, Central, Federal, Republic, President, Rashtrapati, Municipal, or Court are prohibited unless you can prove government patronage (which is rare for private businesses).
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Offensive Content: Names that are offensive to any section of people or suggestive of unlawful activity are strictly banned.
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Emblems Name Act: Names violating the Emblems and Names (Prevention of Improper Use) Act, 1950 (e.g., using the name of the Prime Minister, the UN, or the WHO) are automatically rejected.
Practitioner's Insight: The most common rejection reason is "Descriptive Names". If your name is purely descriptive of your activity (e.g., "Cotton Textile Traders LLP"), it may be rejected for lacking a distinctive "brand" prefix. Always include a unique coined word at the start (e.g., "Vexor Cotton Textile Traders LLP").
Common rejection/RSUB triggers and fast fixes
The Central Registration Centre (CRC) is notorious for its strict adherence to name guidelines. Receiving a "Sent for Resubmission" (RSUB) status is common, but you typically only get one chance to fix it. If the resubmission is also rejected, your ₹200 fee is forfeited, and you must file a fresh application.
Here are the most frequent triggers for rejection and how to fix them immediately.
1. The "Too Similar" Trigger
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The Issue: Your name is phonetically or visually similar to an existing Company or LLP.
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Example: "Techno Soft LLP" is rejected because "Tekno Soft Pvt Ltd" exists.
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The Fast Fix: Do not just change the spelling (e.g., changing "C" to "K"). You must add a distinctive prefix.
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Bad: "Techno Systems LLP"
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Good: "Vexor Techno Systems LLP" (The coined word "Vexor" makes it unique).
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2. The "Descriptive Name" Trigger
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The Issue: The name purely describes your goods or services without any unique brand identity.
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Example: "Mumbai Real Estate LLP" or "Best IT Solutions LLP".
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The Fast Fix: MCA rules require a name to have two parts: a Distinctive Name (Prefix) + Activity (Suffix).
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Fix: Add a proper noun or coined word at the start. Use "Aarav Real Estate LLP" instead of just "Real Estate LLP".
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3. Trademark Conflict
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The Issue: The system flags your name against a registered Class of Trademark (even if the owners are different).
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The Fast Fix:
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Scenario A (You own the TM): Attach the Trademark Registration Certificate or application receipt.
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Scenario B (Someone else owns it): Attach a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the trademark owner on their letterhead, stating they have no objection to you using the name for an LLP.
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4. Missing Board Resolution (For Conversions)
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The Issue: You selected "Conversion of Company to LLP" in Field 1 but forgot to attach the company’s Board Resolution.
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The Fast Fix: Draft a simple resolution on the company’s letterhead: "Resolved that the Company be converted into an LLP and application be made for the name [XYZ LLP]." Upload this in the Attachments field.
5. Object & Name Mismatch
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The Issue: Your name implies a specific activity (e.g., "FinCorp"), but your NIC code/Description (Field 3) relates to something else (e.g., "Agriculture").
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The Fast Fix: Ensure the Keywords in your name match the Main Sub-class Description in Field 3b. If your name is "BuildWell Construction," your NIC code must be for Construction/Infrastructure.
Pro Tip for Resubmission: When you get an RSUB, the form opens again for editing. Use the "Comments" box to politely explain why your name is distinct. citing: "The proposed name is distinct because the prefix 'X' is a coined word and does not appear in the existing citations."
DOCUMENT
Custom Gem
Fees, SRN, processing timelines & name validity (including lapse scenarios)
Once you hit "Submit," the administrative clock begins ticking. Understanding the lifecycle of your application from the Service Request Number (SRN) generation to the expiry of the reserved name is critical to planning your incorporation schedule.
1. Filing Fees & Payment
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Fee per Application: The statutory fee is ₹200 for every RUN-LLP submission.
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Non-Refundable: This fee is for the processing of the request, not the guarantee of a name. If your name is rejected (after your initial attempt and one allowed resubmission), the ₹200 is forfeited.
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Fresh Fees: If you fail to secure the name or the name lapses, you must pay another ₹200 to file a fresh RUN-LLP form.
2. The Role of SRN (Service Request Number)
The SRN is the unique alphanumeric string (e.g., AA12345678) generated immediately upon successful payment. It serves three critical functions:
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Tracking: You use the SRN to check the status (Approved/Resubmission/Rejected) under "My Application History" on the V3 portal.
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Correspondence: Any query or grievance ticket raised with the MCA Helpdesk must reference this SRN.
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Linking to Incorporation: Most importantly, once the name is approved, this SRN is the "Key" you will enter in the FiLLiP form to auto-load the approved name.
3. Processing Timelines (CRC Turnaround)
The Central Registration Centre (CRC) processes names on a non-STP (Straight Through Processing) basis, meaning a human officer reviews every application.
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Standard Turnaround: Typically, applications are processed within 1-2 working days.
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Outcome Notification: You will receive an email to your registered email ID with the result.
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Resubmission (RSUB) Loop: If the officer finds defects (e.g., vague objects or similar names), they will mark the status as "Sent for Resubmission." You generally have 15 days to edit and resubmit the form without paying fresh fees.
4. Name Validity & Lapse Scenarios
If approved, the name is not yours indefinitely. It is reserved for a strict 90-day window.
|
Status |
Timeline / Rule |
|
Valid For |
3 Months (90 Days) from the date of the approval letter. |
|
Extension |
Not Permitted. There is no provision to pay a fee to extend the validity beyond 90 days. |
|
Lapse Scenario A |
Time Expiry: If you do not file the FiLLiP (Incorporation) form by Day 90, the name automatically lapses and becomes available for the public. |
|
Lapse Scenario B |
Withdrawn/Rejected Incorporation: If you file FiLLiP using the name, but the FiLLiP form itself is rejected (after valid resubmission attempts), the name reservation is often treated as "consumed" or lapsed. |
Practitioner's Warning: Do not wait until Day 89 to file your incorporation. If the FiLLiP form faces technical errors or payment failures on the last day, you lose the name and must restart the entire RUN-LLP process.
Step-by-step filing workflow on MCA V3 (pre-checks, submit, pay, track, respond)
Navigating the MCA V3 Portal requires precision, as the system is time-sensitive and session-based. This practitioner’s workflow covers the entire lifecycle of the RUN-LLP application, from login to final approval, without the clutter of complex menus.
Phase 1: Pre-Checks & Access
Before opening the form, ensure your technical setup is ready to avoid session timeouts. Use the latest version of Chrome or Edge and clear your browser cache if you face loading errors. Disable any pop-up blockers, as the payment window will open in a new tab. Log in to mca.gov.in using your "Registered User" or "Business User" credentials. Once logged in, navigate to MCA Services > LLP Services > RUN-LLP (Reserve Unique Name-LLP).
Phase 2: Submission & Payment
Once the web form loads, follow this linear sequence:
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Select Purpose: Choose "New Incorporation" or the relevant conversion option in Field 1.
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NIC Selection: Use the search glass in Field 3 to map your industrial activity.
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Proposed Names: Enter your 1-2 distinctive names in Field 4.
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Upload Attachments: Upload NOCs or Resolutions (PDF only) if triggered by your name choice.
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Auto Check Validation: Click the "Auto Check" button in the footer. This system-level check validates that mandatory fields like NIC and Names are not empty.
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Submit & Pay: Click "Submit" to proceed to the "Bharat Kosh" gateway. Pay the ₹200 fee via Credit Card, Net Banking, or UPI. Do not close the tab until you see the "Payment Successful" screen and the SRN is generated.
Phase 3: Track & Respond (The Waiting Game)
The process requires active monitoring after payment.
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Tracking Status: Go to My Application History on your dashboard and filter by your SRN. The status will show as "Under Processing," "Approved," or "Sent for Resubmission."
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Handling Resubmission (RSUB): If the status is "Sent for Resubmission," you have 15 days to act. Click the "Edit" (Pencil) icon next to the SRN in your history. Read the officer's remarks, modify the names or attach a clarification letter, and re-submit the form. This second attempt is free of cost.
After approval — file FiLLiP, align objects, DIN/DPIN & DSC, LLP Agreement
Once you receive the approval letter for your RUN-LLP application, you have successfully cleared the first hurdle. However, this approval is temporary and conditional. You must now navigate the "incorporation phase" using Form FiLLiP (Form for incorporation of Limited Liability Partnership) within the 90-day validity window.
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Linking the Approved Name via SRN. The most critical step when opening Form FiLLiP is to link your pre-approved name correctly. Do not attempt to apply for a new name inside the incorporation form. Instead, locate the field labeled "Whether name is already approved by Registrar of Companies?" and select "Yes." Enter the Service Request Number (SRN) found on your approval letter. The system will automatically freeze the name field with your reserved choice. This "locks" the name to your application and prevents rejection due to name unavailability.
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The Object Alignment Trap A common reason for rejection at the FiLLiP stage is a discrepancy between the business activity declared in RUN-LLP and the detailed objects in the incorporation documents. The Main NIC Code you selected in the RUN-LLP form created a specific classification for your entity (e.g., Software Publishing). If your Subscriber Sheet in FiLLiP describes the business primarily as "Trading" or "Construction," the Registrar will flag this as misleading. Ensure that the main objects drafted in your LLP agreement and Subscriber Sheet strictly align with the NIC code used during the name reservation.
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DIN/DPIN and DSC Requirements While the RUN-LLP form did not require identity verification, the FiLLiP form is strict. Every Designated Partner must have a valid Class 3 Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) registered on the V3 portal. You cannot file FiLLiP without these signatures. Regarding the Designated Partner Identification Number (DPIN), you have two options. If the partners already have a DPIN/DIN, enter it to pre-fill their details. If they do not have one, you can apply for DPIN allotment for up to two individuals directly within the FiLLiP form. If you have more than two partners needing new DPINs, you must incorporate with just two first and add the others later.
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The Form 3 Compliance Deadline Incorporation is not the finish line. Once your FiLLiP is approved and the Certificate of Incorporation (CoI) is issued, you must execute your LLP Agreement on stamp paper. You are legally required to file this agreement with the MCA using Form 3 within 30 days of the date on your CoI. This is the most penalized compliance in the LLP lifecycle. Missing this 30-day deadline attracts a late fee of ₹100 per day, with absolutely no upper limit. A delay of a few months can result in penalties exceeding the cost of incorporation itself.
Best-practice naming tactics to lift approval rates
The Central Registration Centre (CRC) rejects nearly 30-40% of name applications on the first attempt due to "undesirability" or "resemblance." To ensure your name is approved in the first shot, follow these practitioner-tested tactics that align with Rule 18 of the LLP Rules, 2009.
The "Prefix + Activity" Formula
The surest way to secure approval is to structure your name with two distinct components: a Unique Prefix (Coin word) and a Descriptive Suffix (Activity). For example, "Techno Legal LLP" is likely to be rejected because "Techno" is a generic prefix. However, "Vexor Techno Legal LLP" will be approved because "Vexor" is a coined word that gives the name distinctiveness. Avoid using common words like "Global," "International," "Best," or "Shree" as the sole differentiator, as the CRC system filters these out during the similarity check.
The "Phonetic Check" Strategy
The MCA's system uses a phonetic matching algorithm that flags names sounding similar to existing ones, even if the spelling differs. Before filing, do not just search for the exact spelling of your proposed name. Search for phonetic variations on the MCA Master Data and Google. If you want to register "Kwik Logistics LLP," check for "Quick," "Quik," and "Qwik." If a company named "Quick Logistics Pvt Ltd" exists, your application for "Kwik" will be rejected under the "Too Nearly Resembles" clause.
Leveraging the Trademark NOC
If your proposed name includes a word that is a registered trademark (even if it belongs to a different Class of goods), the system will flag it. If the trademark belongs to you, a group company, or a relative who consents to its use, you can override this rejection. Obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the trademark owner, printed on their letterhead, stating they authorize the proposed LLP to use the brand. Upload this PDF in the "Attachments" section of the RUN-LLP form to preemptively satisfy the examiner's query.
Avoid "Prohibited" Trap Words
Certain words trigger an automatic "Send for Resubmission" status because they require sectoral approval. Unless you have prior clearance from the respective regulator, strict avoid using words like "Bank," "Insurance," "Exchange," "Venture Capital," "University," or "Stock." Similarly, words implying government patronage like "National," "Bureau," "Commission," or "Authority" are strictly banned for private LLPs. If your business is legitimate but uses these terms (e.g., "National Trading LLP"), it will be rejected unless you can prove government shareholding.
Conclusion
Conclusion
The RUN-LLP eForm serves as a critical strategic "gatekeeper" in the lifecycle of a business, allowing you to secure a legally compliant brand identity before committing to the extensive documentation of incorporation. By utilizing this V3 facility, you effectively de-risk the entire registration process, ensuring your proposed name clears the rigorous distinctiveness checks of the Central Registration Centre (CRC) without jeopardizing the higher fees and stamp duty associated with Form FiLLiP. Success on this platform relies less on trial and error and more on a strict adherence to Rule 18 specifically, selecting a unique coined prefix, ensuring the name aligns perfectly with your industrial NIC code, and preemptively resolving trademark conflicts.
Once the approval letter lands in your inbox, the clock immediately starts ticking on the strict, non-extendable 90-day validity window. Your focus must shift instantly to "locking in" this asset by filing the incorporation documents, ensuring that the business objects in your Subscriber Sheet mirror the approved name category perfectly. Ultimately, treating RUN-LLP as a compliance milestone rather than a mere formality is the key to a seamless, rejection-free entry into the corporate world.
FAQ
These frequently asked questions address the specific pain points users face on the MCA V3 portal, focusing on validity, refunds, and legal limitations.
Q1. Can I extend the name validity beyond 3 months if I am not ready to file FiLLiP?
No, there is absolutely no provision for extension under the current MCA V3 system. The name is reserved for exactly 90 days from the date of the approval letter. If you fail to file the incorporation form within this window, the reservation lapses automatically. You will have to apply afresh with a new RUN-LLP form and pay the ₹200 fee again.
Q2. Is the ₹200 filing fee refundable if my name is rejected?
No, the filing fee is non-refundable. The ₹200 is a processing fee charged by the government to examine your application. If your initial application is sent for resubmission and subsequently rejected after your second attempt, the fee is forfeited. You cannot claim a refund even if the rejection seems subjective.
Q3. Can I start business operations or print stationery once the RUN-LLP is approved?
No, this is a common compliance error. Approval of RUN-LLP is merely a "reservation" of the name to prevent others from taking it; it is not a "registration" of the entity. You legally exist only when the Registrar of Companies issues the Certificate of Incorporation (CoI). Entering into contracts or printing invoices before incorporation can lead to personal liability for the partners.
Q4. Why was my name rejected even though no other LLP has the same name?
The Central Registration Centre checks your proposed name against three databases: existing LLPs, existing Companies, and the Trade Marks Registry. Even if no LLP exists with your name, a Private Limited Company or a registered Trademark with a similar name will cause a rejection. Additionally, names that are too generic (e.g., "Cotton Traders LLP") are rejected for lacking a distinctive prefix.
Q5. Can I use the "Auto Check" button to confirm if my name is available?
No, the "Auto Check" button in the form footer is a technical validator only. It merely checks if you have filled in all mandatory fields (like NIC code and Name). It does not connect to the CRC database to check for name availability or conflicts. A successful "Auto Check" does not guarantee that your name will be approved by the officer.
Q6. How many times can I edit the form after getting an RSUB status?
You generally get only one opportunity to cure the defects. If the status changes to "Sent for Resubmission," you must edit and submit the form within 15 days. If the officer finds the revised name or documents still unsatisfactory, they will reject the form completely. You cannot endlessly edit the same SRN.
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