Section 8
How to Name Your Section 8 Companies?
April 20, 20241 view
Quick Summary
The name of your Section 8 company should showcase your social mission. Avoid Pvt Ltd/Ltd; instead, use suffixes like Foundation, Forum, Council, Association. Check both the MCA & Trademark portals for uniqueness during the section 8 company registration process. Apply for name approval using SPICe+ Part A on the MCA portal.
Overview
As trusted consultants working with NGOs and Section 8 companies across India, we know that naming your Section 8 company is more than just a legal formality. Whenever you choose a name, it defines your identity, communicates your mission, and builds trust with donors, CSR partners, and the public.
However, when it comes to Section 8 company registration , the naming process becomes even more crucial. But unlike private limited or LLPs, a Section 8 company has specific naming rules under the Companies Act, 2013. This blog explains the importance of naming in the context of Section 8 registration, outlines the importance of naming, essential guidelines to follow, breaks down the application process, and provides a practical checklist to help you get your Section 8 company name approved.
Why Does Naming Matter for a Section 8 Company?
Identity & Branding – Reflects your NGO’s social mission, values, and unique purposes. Legal Compliance – MCA approval validates the company’s non-profit objective and charitable purposes. Public Trust – A credible name helps attract funding and boost identity. Recognition – A simple, memorable name improves recall and reinforces its reputation.
Rules for Naming a Section 8 Company
When applying for Section 8 company registration online, here are the MCA guidelines every applicant must follow:
No Pvt Ltd or Ltd Suffix – Section 8 companies cannot end with “Private Limited” or “Limited”. Purpose-Oriented Words Only – Use words like "foundation," "forum," "council," "association," "federation," "confederation," "chamber," "electoral trust," and "society." No Profit-Linked Terms – Avoid words such as “Business”, “Commercial”, “Industry”, or “Profit” since a section 8 company is formed for charitable and not-for-profit activities. Avoid Confusing or Misleading Names – The name should not be identical to an existing company or NGO. Check Uniqueness – Ensure it is unique on the MCA & Trademark portals before final submission for online Section 8 company registration.
How to Name and Apply for a Section 8 Company?
Choosing a unique name plays a vital role in the Section 8 company registration process. Follow this simple roadmap for impactful naming and smooth application for a Section 8 company.
Step 1: Brainstorm Relevant Names
Choose meaningful names that connect with your cause (e.g., education, healthcare, environment).
Step 2: Include the Right Suffix
Use permitted suffixes like Foundation, Association, Forum, Federation, or Council to align with Section 8 registration guidelines and avoid MCA rejection.
Step 3: Check Availability
Before applying, check your name on both:
MCA Name Search Tool (for company database)- to confirm its uniqueness
Trademark Portal (to avoid IP conflicts)- to prevent intellectual property conflicts.
Step 4: Keep Alternatives Ready
Always prepare 2–3 name options in case one gets rejected by the MCA.
Step 5: Apply for Name Reservation
Name reservation plays a crucial role in the Section 8 company registration process.
How to Apply Name for a Section 8 Company
First, Login to the MCA portal and open the SPICe+ Part A form. Select “Section 8 Company” as the company type. Enter up to two name options along with your NGO’s charitable objective. Pay the ₹1,000 to reserve the company name registration fee. Wait for MCA’s decision — usually within 2–3 working days. Pro Tip: If rejected, review MCA’s remarks carefully, adjust your name accordingly, and reapply.
Quick Checklist for Section 8 Company Naming
Must Follow
Must Avoid
Use “Foundation, Forum, Association, Council, Federation, Confederation”
Adding Pvt Ltd or Ltd
Reflection of charitable/social purpose
Using business- or profit-related terms
Check availability on MCA & Trademark
Copying existing company/NGO names
Keep 2–3 alternative names ready
Submitting without a clear objective
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right name is the first milestone in your Section 8 NGO registration journey. A strong, rule-compliant, and meaningful name not only boosts credibility but also sets the right foundation for your mission. Whether you are setting up an NGO, a Section 8 microfinance company, or registering for a Section 8 company online, connect with NGOExperts today and get complete guidance from start to finish.
FAQs on Section 8 Company Naming
Q1. Can my Section 8 company name end with Pvt Ltd?
No, it’s not allowed under the Companies Act, 2013. Besides, it must end with a suffix such as "Foundation," "Association," "Society," "Council," "Club," "Charity," "Institute," or "Organization.
Q2. What suffixes are suitable for Section 8 companies?
Words like Foundation, Forum, Association, Federation, Confederation, Council.
Q3. How much does name reservation cost?
The Section 8 company name reservation fees cost ₹1,000 via the MCA portal.
Q4. Can MCA reject my chosen name?
Yes, under section 8 of the Act, it is not unique, violates rules, or lacks a clear charitable purpose.
Q5.Who can form a Section 8 company?
Any individual or group can apply for Section 8 company registration if their company is formed for approved charitable objectives and does not distribute dividends to its members
Q6. How to choose a name for your Section 8 company appropriately?
While choosing a name for your section 8, it is important to ensure that it reflects the objectives of your NGO and should include words like “Foundation,” “Association,” “Society,” or “Institute.”
Q7. Can a Section 8 change its name?
Yes, it is possible to change the Name of a Private Limited Company, Public Limited Company, Section 8 Company, or One Person Private Limited Company for any reason with the consent of all the shareholders.