Saving Mantra Blogs

INC-1 Application for Reservation of Name: Step-by-Step Process Explained

Written by

Financial Analyst

in

Introduction

Before incorporating a company, one of the most crucial steps is selecting and reserving a name. The Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) requires businesses to file an INC-1 application (now part of RUN / SPICe+ process) to secure a unique and legally valid company name.

Choosing the right name is essential for branding, legal compliance, and smooth incorporation. Saving Mantra ensures that your name approval process is error-free, compliant with MCA rules, and completed quickly.

Below is a detailed step-by-step process for filing the INC-1 Name Reservation Application.

Why Name Reservation is Important?

A reserved name:

  • Confirms your legal identity
  • Prevents duplication
  • Protects your branding
  • Ensures smooth incorporation
  • Avoids future disputes or rejections

A well-planned name reservation strategy reduces delays and increases the chances of MCA approval.

Step-by-Step Process for Filing INC-1 Application

Step 1: Understanding MCA Naming Guidelines

Before selecting the name, we review all relevant rules:

  • Name must be unique
  • Should not resemble an existing company or LLP
  • Cannot include prohibited or restricted words
  • Must include suffixes like Private Limited or Limited
  • Requires approval if using words like Bank, Insurance, Stock Exchange, Government etc.

This step ensures your name proposal meets MCA standards.

Step 2: Conduct a Name Availability Search

We perform a detailed search across:

  • MCA company/LLP database
  • Trademark registry for conflicts
  • Domain name availability (optional)

Our goal is to see whether the name is unique and has no legal conflicts.

Step 3: Finalizing the Proposed Names

INC-1 allows proposing multiple names in order of preference.
We help finalize:

  • Primary name
  • Backup alternatives
  • Justification for name selection

The chances of approval are higher with properly structured options.

Step 4: Drafting the Object Clause

MCA requires an object clause aligned with the company’s main activities.
We prepare:

  • Clear and compliant object statement
  • Business description to justify the name

This supports the validity of the application.

Step 5: Preparing Documents & Information

Required details include:

  • Proposed name(s)
  • Business objects
  • Promoters’ details
  • Trademark NoC (if applicable)
  • Special approvals (if required)
  • Attachments supporting the proposed name

Saving Mantra ensures all supporting documents are compliant and ready.

Step 6: Filing the INC-1 Application

We prepare and submit the INC-1 (RUN/SPICe+ Part A) form with:

  • Preferred names
  • Business activity description
  • Required attachments
  • Payment of MCA fees

The submission is made through the MCA portal with real-time acknowledgment.

Step 7: MCA Validation & Review

MCA officials verify:

  • Similarity with existing names
  • Trademark conflicts
  • Correct use of permitted/restricted words
  • Accuracy of object clause

If changes or clarifications are needed, MCA may issue a resubmission request.

Step 8: Addressing Resubmission (If Any)

In case of objections:

  • We analyze MCA remarks
  • Modify name
  • Update documents
  • Re-submit the form within the allowed timeline

Saving Mantra ensures timely compliance to avoid rejection.

Step 9: Name Approval & Certificate Issuance

Once approved:

  • MCA issues Name Reservation Letter
  • Name is reserved for 20 days (extendable for new incorporations via SPICe+)
  • Client proceeds with incorporation (SPICe+ Part B)

This name is now legally protected for the incorporation process.

Benefits of Saving Mantra Name Reservation Services

  • Higher approval success rate
  • Thorough trademark and MCA name screening
  • Error-free object clause drafting
  • Fast processing
  • Complete support in resubmissions
  • End-to-end incorporation guidance

Conclusion

Filing the INC-1 application is the foundation of successful company incorporation. A well-prepared name reservation application ensures faster approvals and prevents unnecessary delays.

With a structured workflow and compliance-first approach, Saving Mantra makes the name reservation process seamless, compliant, and hassle-free—helping entrepreneurs start their company with confidence.

The information provided in this blog is for general informational and educational purposes only and should not be construed as legal, tax, or professional advice. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy and compliance with the applicable provisions of the Companies Act, 2013 and related rules, laws and regulations may change over time and interpretations may vary based on specific facts and circumstances. All services are subject to applicable laws, rules, and government approvals prevailing at the time of execution.

More posts