Are you starting a business? Well, I have a tip for you: get firm registration online today.

We are living in a digital era where there is no need to go through complicated paperwork. Now, you have an option to complete the registration process from your home. So, I have come up with this guide to help you out to register your firm online.

Types of Firm Registration

Before you register a business, it would be better to determine the type of firm registration that fits your business model: In India, there are seven types of firm registration:

1) Sole Proprietorship

If you are a single owner of a startup or small business, then this would be the simplest form of registration, as it requires minimal compliance.

2) One Person Company (OPC)

In the case of OPC, as a solo entrepreneur, you can enjoy the benefits of limited liability without any need of a partner.

3) Partnership Firm

Whether you are a registered or unregistered partnership, you can access legal benefits. However, registered partnerships are likely to enjoy more legal benefits.

4) Limited Liability Partnership (LLP)

If you are looking for a limited risk, LLP can be an ideal option to enjoy the benefits of a partnership and limited liability.

5) Public Limited Company

This structure is suitable for large businesses that issue shares to the public and raise capital.

6) Private Limited Company (Pvt. Ltd.)

It is perfect for your business if you want to scale it. With this, you can enjoy limited liability protection and have access to funds through investors.

7) Non-Profit Organizations

Generally, NGOs, societies, and trusts fall under this category, which are meant for non-commercial or charitable purposes.

Documents Required for Firm Registration

The documents are required as per the type of business structure you choose. Go through the below general checklist:

1) Identity Proof

- Aadhar card or voter ID

- PAN card (all partners/directors)

2) Address Proof

- Bank statement or passport

- Utility bills (water/electricity/gas)

3) Business Address Proof

- No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the landlord

- Property ownership or rental agreement document.

4) Other Documents

- For companies, the Articles of Association (AOA) and Memorandum of Association (MOA) are required.

- For partnership firms, provide the partnership deed.

- Director Identification Number (DIN)

- Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)

Steps to Register a Firm Online

Step 1: Choose the Type of Firm

Firstly, decide the type of firm that suits your business. For this, you can consider factors such as number of owners, compliance requirements, and liability.

Step 2: Obtain a Digital Signature Certificate

During the registration process, a DSC is mandatory to sign digital documents. So, obtain it from government-approved certifying authorities.

Step 3: Apply for a Director Identification Number (DIN)

If you are registering a company, you need to apply for a DIN through the portal of the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA).

Step 4: Register on the MCA Portal

As a next step, visit the official portal of MCA and create an account. The account can be used to fill online applications and submit documents.

Step 5: Fill Out the Application Form

As per your firm type, fill out your appropriate registration form:

- For LLP registration, fill LLP-1.

- For company registration, fill INC-32 (SPICe+).

- For partnership/proprietorship firms, register under MSME or GST portals.

Step 6: Upload Documents

Now, upload the required documents like identity proof, address proof, and business details. Make sure all the files are in the specified size and format.

Step 7: Pay the Fees

Based on your business type and size, the portal will calculate your registration fee. You use net banking, UPI, or credit/debit cards to pay fees.

Step 8: Verification and Approval

After the submission of your application, the concerned authorities will review it. If everything is correct, you will receive the registration certificate or Certificate of Incorporation (COI) through email.

Conclusion

Now, all you need is to gather the necessary documents and register your business. Make sure you follow the simple outlined steps carefully, and with this, you can enjoy the benefits provided to registered entities.