Closing a Private Limited Company in India involves a structured process to ensure legal compliance and the orderly wind-up of business operations. Here is a general guide outlining the key steps for the closure of a Private Limited Company:
Board Resolution:
The first step is to convene a board meeting to discuss and pass a resolution for initiating the closure process.
The board should appoint an authorized signatory or a committee to oversee the closure proceedings.
Shareholder Approval:
A special resolution must be passed by shareholders in a general meeting, with the requisite majority (usually three-fourths).
Shareholders’ approval is required for the closure, and the resolution should specify the reasons for winding up the company.
Appointment of Liquidator:
A liquidator must be appointed to oversee the winding-up process. The liquidator can be an insolvency professional or a director as nominated by the shareholders.
The appointed liquidator will take control of the company’s assets and liabilities.
Filing of Form with Registrar of Companies (RoC):
Within 30 days of passing the resolution, the company must file the special resolution with the RoC using Form MGT-14.
The company also needs to file Form DIR-12 for the cessation of directors.
Creditors Notification:
The liquidator must notify creditors about the company’s closure and request them to submit their claims.
Advertisements should be placed in local newspapers to inform creditors.
Clearance of Liabilities:
The company must clear all outstanding liabilities, debts, and dues.
The liquidator will use the company’s assets to settle these obligations.
Distribution of Assets:
Once all liabilities are settled, the remaining assets can be distributed among shareholders according to their shareholding.
Application to RoC for Closure:
The final step involves filing an application for closure with the RoC using Form FTE (Fast Track Exit) or STK-2 (application by a company for removing its name from the register of companies).
Attach the necessary documents, including the auditor’s report, an indemnity bond, and an affidavit confirming there are no pending litigations.
RoC Approval and Deregistration:
Upon receiving the application, the RoC will review it, and if satisfied, issue a notice for striking off the company’s name from the register.
Once the notice is published, the company is considered closed, and the RoC will issue a final certificate of deregistration.
It is essential to seek professional advice and legal guidance throughout the closure process to ensure compliance with all regulatory requirements and to avoid any complications.
Closing a private limited company in India can be a complex and time-consuming process, but navigating it successfully involves understanding the two main routes: Voluntary Strike-off and Winding Up. Choosing the right path depends on the company’s specific circumstances and reason for closure.
Voluntary Strike Off:
This is the simpler and preferred method for closing a solvent company with no outstanding debts or liabilities. It involves:
Board Meeting: Hold a board meeting to discuss and approve the voluntary strike off resolution according to Section 248(2) of the Companies Act, 2013.
Debt Clearance: Ensure all outstanding debts, including taxes, dues, and employee liabilities, are settled before proceeding.
Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM): Convene an EGM and pass a special resolution for winding up the company. All shareholders must be notified and provided an opportunity to vote.
Filing Documents: Within 30 days of the EGM, file the following documents with the Registrar of Companies (ROC):
Special Resolution (MGT-14)
Statement of Accounts (Form STK-8) certified by a Chartered Accountant
Indemnity Bond by directors (Form STK-3)
Affidavit by directors (Form STK-4)
Other relevant documents depending on ROC requirements
ROC Review and Order: The ROC will review the application and, if satisfied, issue an order striking off the company’s name from the register.
Winding Up:
This method is more complex and typically used for insolvent companies or those facing legal proceedings. There are two types of winding up:
Voluntary Winding Up: Initiated by the company itself when faced with insolvency or inability to continue operations. It can be either:
Members’ Voluntary Winding Up: Approved by shareholders through a special resolution.
Creditors’ Voluntary Winding Up: Initiated when unable to pay creditors. Requires appointing a liquidator to oversee asset distribution and company dissolution.
Compulsory Winding Up: Ordered by the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) upon petition by creditors, shareholders, or the ROC. A liquidator is appointed to manage the process and dissolve the company.
Winding Up involves significantly more legal and financial complexities, requires professional guidance from lawyers and chartered accountants.
Additional Points:
Fast Track Exit Mode: For defunct companies with no financial transactions for three years, a simplified strike-off process under Section 560 of the Companies Act exists.
Tax Implications: Closing a company involves tax clearances and possible capital gains tax liabilities. Consult a tax advisor for specific guidance.
Remember: This is a general overview, and the specific requirements and procedures may vary depending on your company’s situation. Always seek professional advice from lawyers, chartered accountants, and company secretaries to ensure a smooth and compliant closure process. Embarking on a journey of closure with integrity and transparency. Here’s a glimpse into IConnect’s meticulous process for the closure of our Private Limited Company in India. Committed to legal compliance, open communication, and a seamless transition.