Registering a One-Person Company (OPC) is a favored choice for entrepreneurs seeking limited liability and a distinct legal identity. OPC is a unique business structure that allows a single person to function as a company, offering the benefits of limited liability while retaining full control. In an OPC, the individual serves as both the director and shareholder, merging the advantages of a sole proprietorship with the legal protection of a private limited company.
At BeyondYourFinance, we streamline the OPC registration process, ensuring that entrepreneurs can smoothly navigate the complexities of legal formalities. Our experienced team is dedicated to assisting you at every step, from document preparation to filing. We offer expert guidance to help you make informed decisions about your One Person Companyregistration.
Introduction to One Person Company (OPC)
One Person Company (OPC) registration in India was introduced under the Companies Act of 2013, enabling a single individual to establish a company and enjoy the combined benefits of a sole proprietorship and a company structure. Thisinitiative aimed to promote entrepreneurship and formalize Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). As per Section 2(62) of the Companies Act 2013, a company can be formed with one director and one member, and these roles can be held by the same person. OPC registration allows a single person to set up a limited liability company in India.
Eligibility Criteria
To register a One-Person Company (OPC), it is essential to meet the eligibility criteria outlined under the Companies Act.Here are the key requirements:
- Natural Person and Indian Citizen: Only a natural person who is an Indian citizen can establish an OPC. Legal entities like companies or LLPs cannot create an OPC.
- Resident in India: The promoter must have resided in India for at least 182 days during the previous calendar year.
- Minimum Authorized Capital: The OPC must have a minimum authorized capital of ₹1,00,000.
- Nominee Appointment: The promoter must appoint a nominee who will become a member of the OPC in case of the promoter’s death or incapacity.
- Restrictions on Business Activities: OPCs cannot engage in financial activities such as banking, insurance, or investments.
- Conversion to Private Limited Company: If the OPC’s paid-up share capital exceeds ₹50 lakh or its average annual turnover surpasses ₹2 crore, it must be converted into a private limited company.
Note: An individual can establish only one OPC, and a minor cannot be a member of an OPC.
Advantages of One Person Company (OPC)
- Legal Status: OPCs have a separate legal entity, ensuring that the personal liability of the owner is limited.
- Easy Fundraising: OPCs have better access to funds through venture capitalists, angel investors, and banks compared to sole proprietorships.
- Reduced Compliance: OPCs enjoy reduced compliance requirements under the Companies Act, 2013.
- Simple Incorporation: OPCs can be formed with just one member and one nominee, with no minimum paid-up capital requirement.
- Efficient Management: Since a single person manages the company, decision-making is fast and efficient.
- Perpetual Succession: The company’s existence continues even after the death or incapacity of the owner, ensuring business continuity.
Disadvantages of One Person Company (OPC)
- Limited Expansion: OPCs are suitable for small-scale businesses as they can only have one member, which limits capital expansion.
- Restrictions on Business Activities: OPCs cannot engage in financial investment activities like banking or insurance.
- Ownership and Management: Since the owner is also the director, there may be conflicts of interest.
Required Documents for OPC Registration
To register a One-Person Company (OPC), you will need the following documents:
- Memorandum of Association (MoA)
- Articles of Association (AoA)
- Nominee’s Consent (Form INC-3) along with PAN card and Aadhaar card
- Proof of Registered Office (utility bill, rent agreement, NOC from property owner)
- Director’s Declaration (Form INC-9) and Consent (Form DIR-2)
- Professional Certification (certification from a practicing CA, CS, or advocate)
OPC Registration Process
The registration of a One-Person Company (OPC) is facilitated through the SPICe+ (Simplified Proforma for Incorporating Company Electronically Plus) form. Here’s a step-by-step guide to the registration process:
- Obtain Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)
- Secure a DSC for the proposed director, which will be used to sign electronic documents.
- Obtain Director Identification Number (DIN)
- Acquire a DIN for the proposed director from the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA).
- Name Reservation
- Reserve the company’s name using SPICe+ Part A. Ensure the name is unique and does not conflict with existing company names or trademarks.
- Prepare MoA and AoA
- Draft the Memorandum of Association (MoA) and Articles of Association (AoA) specifying the company’sobjectives and internal governance.
- File Incorporation Forms
- Submit the SPICe+ Part B along with MoA, AoA, and other required documents.
- Certificate of Incorporation
- The Registrar of Companies (ROC) issues the Certificate of Incorporation, which includes the company’sCorporate Identification Number (CIN), PAN, and TAN.
Post-Incorporation Formalities
Once the OPC is incorporated, the following post-registration compliances must be met:
- Company’s Bank Account: Open a bank account in the name of the OPC.
- Accounting and Bookkeeping: Maintain financial records for regulatory compliance.
- Annual Filings: File annual returns and financial statements with the ROC.
- Income Tax Compliance: File income tax returns and ensure proper tax compliance.
- Statutory Registers: Maintain statutory registers and records.
Why Choose BeyondYourFinance for OPC Registration?
At BeyondYourFinance, we simplify the process of registering your One-Person Company. Here’s why you should choose us:
- End-to-End Support: Our team handles every aspect of the OPC registration process, from name reservation to document submission.
- Expert Guidance: Our experts offer personalized consultation and guidance at every stage.
- Fast Processing: We ensure quick submission and processing of documents.
- Transparent Fees: No hidden charges—our fees are transparent and affordable.
- Post-Incorporation Support: We provide ongoing support for compliance and annual filings.
By choosing BeyondYourFinance, you can be assured that your OPC registration process will be seamless, efficient, and stress-free. Our team of experts is ready to assist you in every step of your entrepreneurial journey.