LLP Name Approval is the first and most critical step in forming a Limited Liability Partnership in India. Without LLP Name Approval, the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) will not allow partners to proceed with incorporation. A well-chosen and compliant name helps avoid delays, objections, and re-filings during LLP Registration. This guide explains the LLP Name Approval process, applicable rules, use of the MCA portal, common reasons for rejection, and how Lawfinity ensures smooth approvals.

RULES FOR LLP NASME APPROVAL

The LLP Name Approval process is governed by the Limited Liability Partnership Act, 2008 and the LLP Rules, 2009. While applying for LLP Name Approval, the proposed name must strictly follow MCA naming guidelines.

Key rules for LLP Name Approval include:

The name must be unique and not identical or deceptively similar to any existing company or LLP.
The proposed name should reflect the business activity mentioned during LLP Registration.
Words such as “Bank”, “Insurance”, “Stock Exchange”, or “Mutual Fund” require prior approval from the concerned regulator.
The name must end with the words “Limited Liability Partnership” or “LLP”.
Offensive, prohibited, or misleading words are not permitted under LLP Name Approval rules.

Ignoring these rules often results in rejection and delays in LLP Registration. Hence, professional verification before applying for LLP Name Approval is strongly recommended.

LLP NAME APPROVAL THROUGH THE MCA PORTAL

The MCA portal is the official platform for LLP Name Approval in India. The application is filed using the RUN-LLP (Reserve Unique Name – LLP) service available on the MCA website.

Steps involved in LLP Name Approval on the MCA portal:

Log in to the MCA portal using a registered user ID.
Select the RUN-LLP service for LLP Name Approval.
Enter up to two proposed names in order of preference.
Clearly mention the business objects linked with LLP Registration.
Upload supporting documents, if required.
Pay the prescribed government fee and submit the form.

Once submitted, the MCA examines the application. If approved, LLP Name Approval is granted and reserved for 90 days, within which LLP Registration must be completed.

COMMON REASONS FOR LLP NAME APPROVAL REJECTION

Despite a simple process, LLP Name Approval applications are often rejected due to avoidable errors. Understanding common rejection grounds can save time and cost during LLP Registration.

Frequent reasons for rejection of LLP Name Approval include:

Similarity with an existing company or LLP name
Mismatch between the proposed name and business activity
Use of restricted or regulated words without approval
Incorrect spelling or improper suffix usage
Reference to a registered trademark without authorization

Each rejection pushes back the LLP Registration timeline. Proper due diligence before applying for LLP Name Approval significantly reduces rejection risk.

CAN A TRADEMARK BE USED IN LLP NAME APPROVAL?

Yes, a trademark can be used for LLP Name Approval, but certain conditions apply. If the trademark belongs to the applicant or partners, proof of ownership must be submitted during LLP Name Approval.

If the trademark is owned by a third party, a No Objection Certificate (NOC) is mandatory. Without valid authorization, LLP Name Approval using a trademarked word is likely to be rejected, affecting the overall LLP Registration process.

Lawfinity conducts trademark checks before filing LLP Name Approval applications to avoid conflicts and objections.

TIMELINE FOR LLP NAME APPROVAL

Typically, LLP Name Approval takes 2 to 5 working days from the date of submission on the MCA portal. However, timelines may vary depending on name complexity and MCA workload.

If objections are raised, resubmission is allowed within the prescribed time. Once approved, the reserved name remains valid for 90 days, after which a fresh LLP Name Approval application is required if LLP Registration is not completed.

HOW LAWFINITY HELPS WITH LLP NAME APPROVAL

Lawfinity provides end-to-end assistance for LLP Name Approval and LLP Registration. Our experts conduct thorough name availability checks, trademark screening, and rule compliance analysis before filing the application.

With Lawfinity, you get:

Expert drafting of business objects aligned with LLP Name Approval rules
Trademark and MCA database checks to avoid rejection
Accurate filing on the MCA portal
Quick response to MCA queries and resubmissions
Seamless transition from LLP Name Approval to LLP Registration

Our structured approach ensures faster approvals and minimal delays.