How to Reserve a Name for LLP in India – RUN LLP Form Guide

Key Takeaways

• RUN-LLP is the MCA form used to reserve a unique name or apply for a name change of an existing LLP.
• The proposed LLP name should be distinct from existing companies, LLPs and registered trademarks and must follow MCA naming rules. Certain restricted words may require prior approval.
• The current RUN-LLP government filing fee is ₹200 per application. If a proposed name is rejected and you submit a fresh application, the government fee applies again.
• Applicants can generally provide up to two proposed names and should include a clear description of the LLP’s proposed business activities.
• Before applying, check MCA records and existing trademarks to reduce the risk of name rejection or future intellectual property disputes.
• After MCA approves the name, the applicant can proceed with LLP incorporation using the reserved name. Existing LLPs can proceed with the prescribed name-change process.
• Keep the SRN and approval details safely after submission, as they help track the application and complete the subsequent incorporation or name-change process.

What is the RUN-LLP Form, and Who Can Apply?

The RUN-LLP form is an online application provided by the MCA for reserving a unique name for an LLP in India. The acronym “RUN” stands for Reserve Unique Name, allowing entrepreneurs to secure a legally approved name before registering a new LLP or renaming an existing one.

The main purpose of the RUN-LLP form is to ensure that the proposed name is distinct, non-conflicting, and compliant with MCA’s naming guidelines, thereby preventing duplication, trademark disputes, or legal complications during incorporation or company name changes.

The RUN-LLP form can be filed in two cases:

1. For New LLP Registration: Entrepreneurs planning to start a new LLP must submit the RUN-LLP form to reserve their desired name before incorporation. Once approved, the name is valid for a limited period, giving them exclusive rights to use it during the registration process. Now, the FiLLiP incorporation form is primarily used for new LLP name filings.
   
2. For Existing LLP – Name Change: Existing LLPs can use the RUN-LLP form to apply for a name change. The LLP must maintain an active status and comply with all filing requirements, and an authorized partner must apply. The form ensures the MCA approves the new name as unique before updating it officially in the LLP records.

By filing the RUN-LLP form online via the MCA portal, businesses can efficiently reserve or change their LLP name, ensuring legal compliance and a smooth registration process.

What are the Key Rules & Guidelines for Choosing a Name for Your LLP?

The RUN‑LLP form ensures that your proposed LLP name meets legal and compliance requirements. Failing to follow these guidelines can lead to rejection or delays in name approval.

What Makes a Name Acceptable?

To get approval through the RUN‑LLP MCA process, your proposed name must meet the following criteria:

• Uniqueness: The name must be distinct and not identical or too similar to any existing LLP, company, or trademark registered in India.
• No Misleading Words: Avoid names that can mislead the public about the nature, scope, or credibility of your business.
• Restricted Words: Certain words, such as “Bank,” “National,” “Insurance,” “Government,” or professional designations, require prior approval from relevant authorities.
• Mandatory Suffix: Every LLP name must end with the suffix ‘LLP’ or ‘Limited Liability Partnership’ as per Section 15(1) of the LLP Act, 2008.

Dos and Don’ts When Choosing a Name

When selecting a name for your LLP, following these simple dos and don’ts can help ensure faster approval and long-term brand credibility.

Dos	Don’ts
Perform a preliminary name-availability check on the MCA portal to avoid duplication.	Don’t use special characters, punctuation marks, or symbols.
Select a name that clearly reflects your business activity or brand identity.	Don’t imply government affiliation or approval unless explicitly authorized.
Keep it simple, easy to remember, and professional.	Don’t mimic well-known brands or existing company names to prevent legal complications.

Additional Tips for Name Approval

• Consider adding location or unique descriptors to make your LLP name more distinctive.
• Check for existing trademarks to avoid intellectual property disputes.
• Remember, a well-thought-out name can enhance your brand identity and market presence.
• You can also use our company name check tool to verify the availability of your chosen name.

Following these guidelines ensures that your RUN application is smooth and increases the chances of MCA approval. 

How Long is a Reserved Name Valid for Your LLP?

For both new and existing LLPs, the name approved via the RUN‑LLP form is typically valid for 3 months from the date of approval. During this period:

• You must complete the incorporation of the LLP (if new) using the approved name.
• If the incorporation process is not initiated within the 3-month window, the name expires automatically.
• Once expired, the name becomes available for others to reserve, and you would need to reapply through the LLP RUN form if you still wish to use the same name.
• The MCA may grant a shorter or extended reservation period depending on compliance status and processing time.
• The LLP must be active, with all statutory filings up to date, before the name reservation is approved.

Why Tracking Name Validity is Important?

• Helps prevent loss of the reserved name due to delays.
• Ensures that the registration or renaming process aligns with MCA timelines.
• Provides clarity for planning other business formalities, such as opening bank accounts or applying for GST, PAN, and other registrations under the approved LLP name.
• Helps ensure the timely preparation of incorporation documents like the LLP Agreement and partner consent forms.

What are the Fees for RUN‑LLP?

Reserving a name for your LLP involves a small government filing fee and, optionally, professional service charges. The government fee for submitting the RUN form is ₹200 per application, payable online through the MCA portal via net banking, debit/credit card, or other digital modes. 

(Note: Fees may change, so it’s best to verify the latest amount on the MCA portal before filing.)

If the application is marked “Resubmission Required,” the applicant must resubmit within 15 days (T+15, where T is the date it was marked).

Additional Points to Consider

• Multiple Name Options: If your preferred name is rejected, submitting a new RUN‑LLP application requires paying the government fee again.
  
• No Partial Refunds: MCA generally does not refund fees for rejected applications, so careful planning is essential.
  
• Budget Planning: Consider both RUN‑LLP fees and optional professional charges when planning your incorporation budget.

How to File the RUN‑LLP Form to Reserve a Name for LLP?

Before starting the application, make sure you have the following ready:

• MCA portal login credentials
  
• LLPIN (for existing LLPs)
  
• Proposed LLP names (up to 2 options)
  
• Brief description of business objects
  
• Relevant documents, such as approvals or No Objection Certificate (NOC), if required

Having these ready in advance ensures a smooth application process and minimizes the chances of rejection.

Step 1: Log in to the MCA Portal

Go to the official MCA portal and navigate to Services → LLP Services → RUN‑LLP. Using the official portal is essential to avoid fraud and ensure that your application is processed correctly.

Step 2: Select the Purpose of Application

Choose the purpose of your submission carefully:

• New incorporation – For reserving a name before registering a new LLP
  
• Conversion – If converting another business entity into an LLP
  
• Name change – For existing LLPs looking to change their registered name

Selecting the correct purpose ensures you fill in only the relevant details required for approval.

Step 3: Enter Proposed Names and Business Objects

You can submit up to two proposed names along with a brief description of your business objects.

• Ensure the names are unique, professional, and easy to remember
  
• Avoid names that may conflict with existing companies, LLPs, or trademarks
  
• Providing a clear description of your business helps MCA understand your intent and speeds up approval

Step 4: Attach Relevant Documents

If your proposed name includes restricted words (like “Bank,” “National,” etc.) or requires prior approvals/NOCs, attach the necessary documents. Only attach mandatory documents to avoid delays or rejection.

Step 5: Pay Fees and Submit the Form

Pay the applicable RUN‑LLP fees online via the MCA portal. After submission:

• A Service Request Number (SRN) is generated
  
• An acknowledgment receipt is provided, which you must save for tracking
  
• Keep an eye on the MCA portal for status updates

Step 6: Proceed After Name Approval

Once your proposed name is approved:

• For new LLPs, you can proceed with incorporation using the approved name.
  
• For existing LLPs, you can file the LLP name-change application with MCA.
  
• Ensure that all future filings and registrations (PAN, GST, bank accounts, etc.) match the approved name.

How to Download the RUN‑LLP Form?

The RUN‑LLP form is available on the MCA portal and must be filed online. To access it:

1. Visit the official MCA website: mca.gov.in
   
2. Go to Services → LLP Services → RUN‑LLP
   
3. Log in using your MCA credentials
   
4. Fill in the form online and submit it. After submission, you will receive a Service Request Number (SRN) for tracking your application.

Reserving a unique name through the RUN form is the foundation of establishing a strong legal and brand identity for your LLP in India. By following the MCA guidelines, understanding eligibility, validity, and fees, and submitting the application carefully, entrepreneurs can ensure a smooth name reservation process without delays or compliance issues.

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