Many people dream of starting a business. But it begins with registering the company. It is the primary legal step you need to follow before officially running your business. This blog will explore the basics of business. You need to know them before starting your own business.
What Is Company Registration?
Official registration of a business makes your firm a legal body. Once you register your business, you notify the government. You’re setting up a company, following regulations, and filing taxes.
It also protects your business name and legal status. In simple words, company registration makes it official. Also, registering a company has benefits.
It lets you open a business bank account and get business loans. Apart from this, if you want to register a company in Delhi, you can take advice from LegalsExpert.
Why Is Company Registration Important?
Here are some key reasons to register your company:
- Legal Protection: The moment your company is registered, it becomes separate from you. This means if your business experiences legal problems or debt, then your assets, such as a house or a car, cannot be taken.
- Credibility and Trust: It will then seem more trustworthy to customers and partners. This reflects the intention to do some business and in observance of the law.
- Tax Advantages: After you register the company, you can pay your taxes. Then, you can enjoy all the business tax credits.
- Access to financing: A registered business can secure loans and funding. An unregistered business may find this difficult.
- Brand Protection: Having your company name registered prevents its use by anyone else. Hence, you can safeguard your brand and reputation.
Types of Company Structures
But you will, first of all, need to determine what sort of company you want. The list below mentions the most-used types:
- Sole Proprietorship: A sole proprietorship is the least complicated type of company. A sole proprietorship, in case you decide to start alone, means the owner is sole and has authority over all. It is quick to set up but does not offer personal liability protection.
- Partnership: This is ideal for two or more who wish to set up business as a team. All the parties agree to share duties, profit, and loss liabilities equally. More than a sole proprietorship but remains simple.
- Limited Liability Company (LLC): An LLC is a very common choice for small businesses. It offers the advantage of providing personal asset protection. If problems arise in business, your assets are safe and sound. Furthermore, LLCs have flexible tax options.
- Corporation: It’s a more complicated structure and is mainly used by larger organizations. A corporation has shareholders. Its structure is separate from that of the owners. It’s good for those businesses that want to raise large amounts of money.
How to Register Your Company: Step-by-Step
Registering your company is different from country to country, but here is a general step-by-step guide that can get you started.
Step 1: Choose a Name for Your Company
Choose a unique and valid name for your company that suits the work you are going to start. You can research a different name on different websites. The unique name will help you register. If it already exists, you must change it.
Step 2: Register Your Business with the Government
This is where the official registration process occurs. There is a type of paperwork that is filed with the government office responsible for company registration. Depending on the country, this might be done online. The documents required are usually:
- Your company’s name
- The business structure
- The purpose of your business
- Information about the company owners or directors
- Your company’s registered address
Step 3: Pay the Fees
In India, fees for company registration vary between ₹7,000 and ₹30,000 according to the nature of the company, stamp duties, professional services, and some additional costs, including Digital Signature Certificates (DSC) and Director Identification Numbers (DIN). Current rates should be checked to get an approximate estimate.
Step 4: Get the Necessary Permits and Licenses
Some businesses require further permits or licenses to operate the business legally. For instance, if you want to open a restaurant, there may be a need for health permits. An e-commerce license could be required to start an online store. One should consult his or her government to see whether his or her business requires more permits.
Step 7: Set Up a Business Bank Account
Once your business is registered, you can also open a bank account for it. This allows you to have separate finances for personal and business, which simplifies tracking business income and expenditures for tax filing purposes.
Step 6: Start Paying Taxes
Once you are registered, you will be governed by tax regulations in your country. Your business may have to collect sales tax or pay income tax, depending on the state you operate from. You can hire an accountant or make use of accounting software to help you manage the business taxes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Registering Your Company
Excitement in starting a business begins with registering it. But there are common mistakes to avoid.
- Choose the Wrong Business Name: Your business name must be unique and easy to spell. You should not have a business name that sounds like another company to avoid any legal issues.
- Not Choosing the Right Business Structure: Selecting an inappropriate business structure can lead to significant financial and legal expenses. Do your research, and if necessary, consult a professional.
- Missing Deadlines: Company registration and renewal have deadlines. If you fail to meet them, you might end up paying some penalties or losing your company’s registration.
- Ignoring local permits: It’s vital to ask if you have any local permits or licenses. The absence of these may lead to fines.
Conclusion
To make your dream of starting a business real, first, complete your startup registration. From small local shops to mighty tech firms, business and startup registration is vital. It is the basis for growth, legality, and prestige. So, take time to decide what business to start. Then, move forward on how to register it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it necessary to hire a professional for company registration?
It is not required. But hiring a pro, like a company secretary or lawyer, will help. It will make the process smoother and ensure legal compliance. They will also prepare and file all documents correctly.
Is there online company registration in India?
Registering a company in India usually requires a duration of about 7 to 10 working days. This applies if you submit all documents correctly and get the approvals by the deadline.
Do I need to be an Indian citizen to register a company in India?
No, but foreign nationals can also register a company in India. One director must be an Indian resident. The company must have a registered office in India.