When I started my first business, I thought registering a company would be simple — fill out a few forms, upload some documents, and boom, done.

Boy, was I wrong.

The truth is, registering a company in India can be simple, but only if you know what you're doing — and more importantly, what not to do. I learned it through mistakes (and a few stressful nights). So, if you're about to take the leap, here are some things I wish someone had told me:

1. Don't just pick “Private Limited” because it sounds official

I went straight for the Private Limited tag because that's what every “serious” startup seemed to do. But in hindsight, I should've stopped and asked:

  • Am I raising funds soon?



  • Will I have multiple co-founders or investors?



  • Can I manage the compliance costs?



If not, a simpler option like LLP or One Person Company might've made more sense — and saved me money.

2. Your business name can (and probably will) get rejected

I came up with a cool name. It was catchy, meaningful... and already taken.

MCA has strict rules, and just adding “Solutions” or “India” at the end doesn't make it unique enough.

Tip: Check your name on the MCA portal and keep at least 3 backup names ready.

3. Bad documentation = delay city

A scanned Aadhaar with a blurred photo? Rejected. Address mismatch between PAN and utility bill? Rejected.

I learned this the hard way. The MCA portal doesn't forgive easily.

Now I tell everyone: double-check every detail — spelling, address, date, everything.

4. Your home can be your office, but...

...you need a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from whoever owns it. That includes your parents if it's their house.

I didn't get one at first, and yes — rejected.

5. You need a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)

If you're like me, you probably assumed the DSC comes as part of the process.

It doesn't. You need to get it before starting your application. Each director/partner needs one too.

6. Not everyone can be a director

This surprised me — someone I trusted and wanted to bring in as a co-founder turned out to be disqualified from becoming a director due to a past legal issue.

Always check DIN and compliance history before listing anyone on your incorporation forms.

7. It doesn't end with the Certificate of Incorporation

Once you get the certificate, the real work begins:

  • Apply for PAN and TAN



  • File INC-20A (it's a declaration of starting business — and mandatory!)



  • Open a current account



  • Register for GST if needed



I missed INC-20A once. Penalty? ₹50,000. Ouch.

8. You can DIY the process — but should you?

Sure, you can watch YouTube videos and read guides. But if you're not confident, or you're pressed for time, hire a professional.

The peace of mind is worth it.

9. Stay updated — MCA loves changing the rules

Just when I thought I knew the process, MCA rolled out a new form, a new portal update, or some policy tweak. Always check for the latest before submitting anything.

10. Don't miss those OTPs

Sounds silly, but OTPs are a part of the verification process — on email, on phone. If you don't receive or enter them in time, your form can fail to submit.

In Conclusion…

Starting a company is exciting — but it's also paperwork, rules, and red tape. That doesn't mean it has to be overwhelming. If I could go back in time, I'd slow down, do it right the first time, and maybe get some expert help.

If you're reading this and feel even a bit unsure, just talk to someone who does this daily. (Shameless plug — we do that at JSRTax.in).

Because the last thing you want when launching your dream business is to get stuck at step one.