Title Check for Companies in Chennai - Complete Guidance
Choosing a company name is one of the first and most important steps in starting a business. A good name creates a strong identity, but before using it, it’s important to do a title check for companies. This simple step can save time, money, and legal trouble in the future.
What Is a Title Check for Companies?
A title check for companies means verifying if a business name is already registered or in use by someone else. This is usually done through a government or official company registration website. The goal is to make sure the selected name is available, legal, and safe to use.
Why Title Check for Companies Is Necessary
Starting a company without checking the name first can cause many problems later. Here are a few reasons why this step is necessary:
- It prevents duplication of names.
- It avoids legal issues and trademark conflicts.
- A good business name helps people remember the company and makes it stand out from others.
- It ensures faster registration without rejection.
Doing a title check for companies is the smart way to start a business legally and confidently.
Rules to Follow While Choosing a Company Name
Even if a name is available, it still needs to follow certain rules. The Companies Act, 2013, gives clear guidelines:
- The name must not be too similar to existing company names.
- It should not include offensive or misleading words.
- Words like “National”, “Bank”, “Exchange”, etc. may need special approval.
- The name must reflect the company’s work or objective.
Following these rules helps avoid rejection during registration. It also increases the chances of getting the name approved on the first attempt.
Where to Do a Title Check for Companies in India
In India, the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA – www.mca.gov.in) is the official body that handles company registrations and approvals.
The MCA website provides a service called the RUN (Reserve Unique Name) tool, which is used to check if a business name is available. It helps in finding out whether the name you want is already taken or if it’s too similar to an existing company.
However, understanding the rules and choosing a name that matches all legal requirements isn’t always easy. There are naming guidelines to follow, and your application can be rejected if the name doesn’t fit the criteria.
That’s why it’s better to seek help from experts before finalising a name. They can guide you, suggest the best options, and make sure your name is approved without unnecessary delays.
To Reserve the name:
Once the name is cleared, the next step is to reserve it officially. This is done using the SPICe+ form on the MCA website. The process includes submitting your business activity, selecting name options, and filing government documents, which can be a lot for someone new to it.
Many business owners choose to rely on title check companies for this step. They handle the paperwork, select proper name variations, and make sure the submission meets all formalities.
If the name gets approved, it remains reserved for 20 days. During this time, the company must complete the full registration process.
Tips to Choose the Right Company Name
Choosing a name is not just about availability. It should also reflect the company’s goals and be easy for people to remember. Here are some useful tips:
- Keep the name short and simple.
- Make it easy to spell and pronounce.
- Avoid using numbers or special characters.
- Make sure the name is not offensive or misleading.
- Check domain name availability for website use.
A well-chosen name can make a strong impact in the market. It can also help in branding and marketing.
Common Mistakes to Avoid During Title Check
Sometimes, people skip important steps during a title check for companies. Avoiding these mistakes can save effort and time:
- Not checking similar sounding names.
- Using names that include banned or sensitive words.
- Forgetting to check trademark availability.
- Not checking domain name for online presence.
It is always better to double-check every detail before finalizing the name.
Can Two Companies Have the Same Name?
No, two companies cannot have the exact same name if they are registered under the same act. However, small changes like adding “India” or “Limited” to an existing name do not make it unique. The registrar may reject such names if they feel the names are confusingly similar.
What Happens If Name Is Rejected?
If the name is rejected, the applicant can:
- Make changes and reapply through SPICe+ Part A.
- Choose a different name that follows the rules.
- Contact a professional for help with documentation and approval.
Rejections are common but can be avoided with proper research and planning.
Trademark and Company Name – Are They the Same?
A company name is used for business registration. A trademark registration, on the other hand, protects the brand, logo, or product name. Just because a company name is approved does not mean it is free from trademark issues.
It is a good practice to check both:
- MCA for company name availability.
- IP India website for trademark status.
Doing both checks gives complete safety to the brand and business.
What is the difference between Title Opinion and Title Check? Are both the same?
No, they are not exactly the same, but they are closely related.
A Title Check means verifying if the name or title you want for your company is already in use or not. This is done on the MCA (Ministry of Corporate Affairs) website to see if your desired company name is available.
A Title Opinion, on the other hand, is usually a formal suggestion or review given by a legal expert. It tells whether the title you chose is legally valid, not misleading, and follows the naming rules set by the government.
So, a title check is the first step, and a title opinion adds a layer of legal confirmation. Many businesses take both steps to avoid name rejection during company registration.
