Company name search - get it right the first time
Choosing the right company name is the first critical step in your business journey. We check MCA's RUN portal for identical, similar, and phonetically identical names, cross-reference the trademark registry, and suggest compliant alternatives. Avoid costly RUN form rejections - most name rejections happen due to overlooked similar names.
Company Name Search
Share your preferred name and our experts will check availability across MCA and trademark databases.
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The key facts, in one place
Everything a founder usually has to piece together from five different pages, in one place.
- Governing rule
- Companies Act, 2013, Section 4(2)Name availability rules
- MCA Portal
- RUN (Reserve Unique Name)mca.gov.in/run
- Name validity
- 20 days from approvalCan be extended once
- Name change fee
- ₹1,000 per applicationPaid to MCA
- Filing form
- Form INC-1 (old) / RUN form (current)Reserve Unique Name
- Max name choices
- 6 preferred names per applicationIn order of preference
- Approval time
- 1-3 working daysMCA portal processing
- Trademark check
- 45 classes (IP India)Included in Standard plan
- Our fee from
- Free (basic) / ₹499 (standard)With expert suggestions
What is company name search and why does it matter?
Company name search is the process of verifying whether your desired company or LLP name is available for registration with the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA). It is the very first step in the incorporation process and arguably the most important - because once a name is approved and reserved, it gives you exclusive rights to that name for 20 days, but a rejected name costs you the filing fee of ₹1,000 and a waiting period.
Under Section 4(2) of the Companies Act, 2013, the proposed name must not be identical or too similar to an existing company or LLP name. The MCA's name approval process uses automated matching plus manual review, checking for: exact matches, similar-sounding names, phonetically identical names (even with different spellings), and names containing restricted words (like 'Bank', 'Insurance', 'National').
Our name search service goes beyond a basic MCA check. We manually compare your preferred name against the RUN portal database and the IP India trademark registry. Our CA/CS team understands MCA's naming conventions and can identify subtle issues - such as abbreviations, vowel variations, or regional language equivalents - that the automated system might flag during review.
If your preferred name is unavailable or likely to be rejected, we suggest up to 5 alternative names that comply with MCA guidelines and increase your chances of approval on the first RUN filing. This saves you time, the ₹1,000 filing fee per attempt, and the frustration of repeated rejections.
MCA name search vs trademark search: what each covers
A thorough name search covers both MCA's company database and the trademark registry. Here is what each covers.
| Aspect | MCA Name Search | Trademark Search |
|---|---|---|
| Database | MCA RUN portal (all companies + LLPs) | IP India trademark registry (45 classes) |
| Check type | Identical + similar + phonetic | Identical + similar class marks |
| Legal impact | MCA will reject registration if too similar | Can lead to opposition if trademark exists |
| Cost | Free (MCA portal) / paid (our service) | Free (IP India) / paid (professional search) |
| Speed | ✓ Instant (MCA portal) | ✕ Same-day (our tool) |
| Recommended | ✕ Mandatory before filing RUN form | ✓ Strongly recommended before registration |
Who needs a company name search?
Name search is essential for anyone incorporating a new entity, but also for existing companies planning a name change.
- Founders choosing a name for a new company or LLP
- Entrepreneurs who received a RUN form rejection and need alternatives
- Companies considering a name change under Section 13
- Businesses expanding to a new entity and need a distinctive name
- Startups applying for DPIIT recognition and want a unique brand name
- Companies whose desired name is in a restricted category (e.g., contains 'Bank', 'Finance')
Common naming scenarios by sector
Technology & SaaS
- Need unique, brandable names
- Often include tech terms (avoid duplicates)
- Should check trademark Class 9 + Class 42
Fintech & NBFC
- Cannot use 'Bank', 'Finance', 'Insurance' without approval
- Need special approval from RBI/IRDAI for certain words
- Trademark check in Class 36 critical
Healthcare & Pharma
- Cannot use 'Hospital', 'Pharma' without medical council approval
- Trademark in Class 5, 10, 44 relevant
- Need to check medical council name databases
E-commerce & D2C
- Brand name vs company name alignment matters
- Trademark Classes 25, 35, 42 commonly needed
- Often need name + brand name search
What does not qualify
- ✕Companies that have already secured name approval from RUN (search complete)
- ✕Existing companies changing address or directors (no name change needed)
MCA name eligibility: is your name compliant?
MCA has specific naming rules under Section 4(2). Check your name against these criteria.
Does your name contain words identical to an existing company/LLP?
Could your name be confused with an existing company or LLP?
Does your name contain a restricted or undesirable word?
3 questions to go
Nothing is submitted and nothing is stored, the check runs entirely in your browser.
Documents for name search and RUN form filing
Common to every entity
- Proposed company name (2-6 alternatives in order of preference)Mandatory
- Description of main business objects (for name justification)Mandatory
- Names and DINs of proposed directorsMandatory
- Proof of registered office address
Entity-specific
| Entity | Additional documents |
|---|---|
| Private Limited Company | Proposed name(s), business description, director details. If name contains a restricted word, prior approval letter from the relevant authority. |
| LLP | Proposed LLP name(s), main objects, partner details. LLP naming rules are similar but slightly more flexible. |
| Section 8 Company | Proposed name(s), detailed objects, approval from Central Government may be needed for certain names. |
| One Person Company (OPC) | Proposed name(s), nominee consent, business description, director details. |
Get the naming checklist as a PDF
Includes MCA naming rules, restricted words list, and a RUN form checklist.
How company name search and approval works
The name approval process has two stages: search (pre-filing) and reservation (RUN form). Here is the complete flow.
Brainstorm & shortlist names
You provide 2-6 preferred names in order of preference. Names should reflect your business, be distinctive, and not contain restricted words. Our CA team can advise on naming conventions at this stage.
MCA RUN portal search
We search the MCA RUN (Reserve Unique Name) portal for each of your preferred names. We check for exact matches, similar names, phonetically identical names, and abbreviated forms. This takes about 15 minutes.
Trademark registry search
We cross-check the IP India trademark database across relevant classes (e.g., Class 9 for software, Class 25 for apparel, Class 35 for services). This identifies potential future trademark conflicts.
Name recommendations
If any preferred name is unavailable or likely to be rejected, we suggest up to 5 alternative names that comply with MCA guidelines. We explain why the original was problematic and how the alternatives avoid those issues.
RUN form filing
Once you approve the name, we file the RUN form on the MCA portal with your top 2 choices. MCA processes the application within 1-3 working days. If approved, the name is reserved for 20 days (extendable once for another 20 days).
Name reservation certificate
MCA issues a name approval certificate (Name Approval Slip). This is valid for 20 days, within which you must proceed with SPICe+ filing for incorporation. If you do not incorporate within this window, the name expires and must be re-applied.
You can search names yourself on the MCA portal for free. What you miss is the phonetic analysis, trademark cross-check, and knowledge of MCA's internal naming conventions. A rejected RUN form costs ₹1,000 per filing. Our search service catches issues before you pay that fee.
How long does name approval take?
The name search itself is instant. The MCA RUN form approval follows a predictable timeline.
| Stage | Duration |
|---|---|
| MCA RUN portal search | 15 minutes |
| Trademark registry search | 15-30 minutes |
| Name recommendations (if needed) | 1-2 hours |
| RUN form filing & MCA processing | 1-3 working days |
| Name reservation (valid for) | 20 days (extendable once) |
MCA typically approves names within 1-3 working days. If they raise a query or require modification, add 2-3 more days. The name reservation is valid for 20 days from approval - incorporate within this window or re-apply.
What it costs
Our name search is free for basic checks. Plans with expert review, trademark search, and RUN form filing start at ₹499.
Basic
Quick MCA availability check
- MCA RUN portal search (1 name)
- Identical name check
- Instant results
- Email delivery
Standard
Full search with expert suggestions
- MCA RUN portal search (up to 6 names)
- Phonetic + similar name analysis
- Trademark registry check (1 class)
- Up to 5 alternative name suggestions
- CA expert review
- Phone consultation
Premium
Complete with RUN form filing
- Everything in Standard
- Trademark check (all 45 classes)
- RUN form preparation
- MCA RUN form filing
- Follow-up with MCA
- Reservation certificate delivered
Full fee breakdown
| Particulars | Government fee | Professional fee |
|---|---|---|
| MCA RUN form (name reservation) | ₹1,000 | Included in Premium |
| MCA portal search (DIY) | Free | Free (Basic plan) |
| Trademark search (IP India) | Free | Included in Standard+ |
| Professional fee - Basic plan | Nil | Free |
| Professional fee - Standard plan | Nil | ₹499 |
| Professional fee - Premium plan (with RUN filing) | Nil | ₹999 |
Not included in any tier:
- ✕ MCA RUN form fee (₹1,000) - payable to government in Premium plan
- ✕ Trademark application fee (if you wish to register the trademark)
- ✕ RBI/IRDAI approval fees for names containing restricted words
Which name search plan do you need?
Answer three quick questions and we will recommend the right search package.
How many name options do you have?
Do you need a trademark check?
Do you need help filing the RUN form?
Why search before filing?
Avoid rejection & cost
- Each rejected RUN form costs ₹1,000 - our search catches issues before you pay(Companies Act, 2013, Section 4(2))
- Avoids delays in your incorporation timeline - a rejected name can add 3-7 days
- Prevents having to restart the entire naming process after investing in brand materials
Trademark protection
- Early trademark check prevents future oppositions and legal disputes(Trade Marks Act, 1999)
- Identifies if your desired name is already trademarked in your business class
- Suggests alternatives that are free in both MCA and trademark databases
Strategic naming
- CA review ensures your name complies with all MCA guidelines on first attempt
- Suggestions for brandable, distinctive names that pass both MCA and trademark checks
- Guidance on using abbreviations, brand names vs company names, and naming for different entity types
Speed & confidence
- Results in 15 minutes - start incorporation immediately after approval
- Confidence that your RUN form will pass on first submission
- RUN form filing included in Premium plan - we submit and follow up with MCA
MCA naming rules under Section 4(2): what you need to know
- Identical names are rejected automatically. MCA's system checks against all registered companies and LLPs. If your proposed name is identical to an existing one, it will be rejected without manual review. The check includes exact spelling, spacing variations, and punctuation.
- Similar names are also rejected. MCA checks for names that are 'too nearly resembling' an existing name. This includes phonetic similarity (e.g., 'TechSol' vs 'TechSoul'), abbreviated forms ('ABC' vs 'A B C'), and names that differ only by a suffix or prefix ('The Tech Solutions' vs 'Tech Solutions').
- Certain words require prior approval. Words like 'Bank', 'Insurance', 'Stock Exchange', 'National', 'President', 'Small Industries', 'Venture Capital' cannot be used without prior approval from RBI, IRDAI, SEBI, or the Central Government. Using them without approval guarantees RUN form rejection.
Common naming mistakes that lead to RUN form rejection
Choosing a name too similar to a competitor
Run a comprehensive phonetic analysis, not just an exact match check. Our Standard plan catches these before you file.
Using a restricted word without approval
Check the MCA list of undesirable names before shortlisting. If your industry requires words like 'Finance' or 'Consulting', we advise on the approval process.
Submitting only one preferred name
MCA allows up to 6 preferences. Always submit alternatives - if the first choice is rejected, they try the second. With only one choice, rejection means restarting.
Choosing a name that conflicts with a trademark
MCA checks only against company/LLP names, not trademarks. A name approved by MCA can still lead to a trademark opposition later. Our trademark search prevents this.
Using generic or descriptive names
Names that are purely descriptive (e.g., 'Best Computers Pvt Ltd') are more likely to be rejected. Choose distinctive, brandable names that combine unique and descriptive elements.
Every rejection above has a fix - most come down to how the innovation note is written, not the business itself. Most applicants don't know that until after the rejection.
If you have already been rejected, or want to make sure it does not happen, the 15-minute call below is the fastest path.
Name approval timeline & next steps
After name approval, here is the timeline for the next steps in your incorporation journey.
| Form | Trigger | Due date |
|---|---|---|
| Name reservation (RUN form approval) | MCA approval | Valid for 20 days |
| SPICe+ incorporation filing | After name approval | Within 20 days of reservation |
| Extension request (if needed) | Before 20-day expiry | One-time 20-day extension available |
| If name expires | No extension filed | Re-apply with RUN form (₹1,000) |
After name approval, the next step is company incorporation. We handle the complete process. see company registration plans.
How Bizeneed's name search is different
Frequently asked questions
Company name search is the process of verifying whether your desired company or LLP name is available for registration with MCA. It involves checking the MCA's RUN portal for identical and similar names, and optionally cross-referencing the IP India trademark database. A thorough search before filing the RUN form significantly reduces the chance of rejection.
You can check name availability on the MCA portal's RUN (Reserve Unique Name) service at mca.gov.in. However, the portal only checks for exact matches. For a comprehensive check including phonetic similarity and trademark conflicts, our Standard and Premium plans provide professional verification by CA/CS experts.
The RUN (Reserve Unique Name) form is filed with MCA to reserve a proposed company or LLP name. The government fee is ₹1,000 per application. You can submit up to 6 name preferences. MCA typically processes the application within 1-3 working days. The approved name is reserved for 20 days.
Section 4(2) of the Companies Act, 2013 requires that the proposed name: (1) is not identical to any existing company/LLP name, (2) is not too nearly resembling an existing name, (3) does not contain any undesirable words (e.g., 'Bank', 'Insurance', 'National') unless approved, (4) does not violate the Emblems and Names (Prevention of Improper Use) Act, 1950, and (5) for certain words, requires prior approval from relevant authorities.
A name reserved through the RUN form is valid for 20 days from the date of approval. You can apply for a one-time extension of another 20 days. If you do not incorporate within the validity period, the name lapses and you must re-apply with a fresh RUN form fee of ₹1,000.
If MCA rejects your RUN form, the ₹1,000 fee is not refunded. You must file a fresh RUN form with new name choices. This is why a pre-filing name search is critical - it identifies potential rejections before you pay the fee. Our Premium plan includes RUN form filing with follow-up to minimize rejection risk.
Yes. Every company must end with 'Private Limited' or 'Limited' (for public companies), and every LLP must end with 'Limited Liability Partnership' or 'LLP'. These suffixes are mandatory and are checked by MCA during name approval.
MCA maintains a list of undesirable names including: 'Bank', 'Insurance', 'Stock Exchange', 'Venture Capital', 'National', 'President', 'Small Industries', 'Municipal', 'Commission', 'Panchayat', 'Ministry', and any name that suggests government patronage or violates the Emblems Act. Using these without prior approval guarantees rejection.
A trademark search is strongly recommended even though MCA only checks against company/LLP names. If you incorporate with a name that is already trademarked by another business in your industry, you could face opposition when you try to register your own trademark. Our Standard and Premium plans include trademark checks across relevant classes.
Yes, under Section 13 of the Companies Act, 2013. The process requires a special resolution, Form INC-23 filing, and ROC approval. Name changes are more expensive and time-consuming than getting it right initially. We recommend investing in a thorough name search before incorporation.
MCA allows up to 6 name preferences in a single RUN form application, listed in order of preference. MCA reviews them in order and approves the first available one. Submitting multiple choices significantly increases your chances of approval in a single filing.
MCA accepts names in any language, but the registration and all official communications will be in English or Hindi. If you want to register a regional language name, it must be accompanied by an English transliteration. Our team handles the transliteration and compliance requirements.
MCA encourages names that reflect the company's main objects, but it is not strictly mandatory. However, names that are misleading about the company's activities (e.g., 'FinTech Solutions' for a food business) may be questioned during approval. We recommend names that align with your stated business objects.
Our Standard plan (MCA + phonetic + trademark check, 1 class) costs ₹499. Our Premium plan (full trademark check across 45 classes + RUN form preparation and filing) costs ₹999 plus the government fee of ₹1,000. Basic MCA-only search is free.
MCA's RUN portal is a national database covering all companies and LLPs registered across India. There is no state-specific name search. The name must be unique nationwide. For trademark search, you can filter by state for state-specific trademarks, but most businesses need a national check.
Written by Sneha Kapoor, Corporate Compliance Content Lead · Reviewed by CA Vikram Mehta, ICAI Membership 187xxx
Last updated 5 September 2026
Sources
- Ministry of Corporate Affairs - RUN Portal
- Companies Act, 2013 - Section 4
- IP India - Trademark Search
- MCA Name Approval Guidelines
Eligibility thresholds, statutory sections and filing deadlines on this page are verified periodically against the sources above. Tax and compliance positions can change; confirm specifics with our team or your CA before relying on them for a filing decision.
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