The founder members of the KLS Advisors have more than 20 years of experience in Corporate Law. KLS Advisors provides advisory services for business registration, legal & regulatory services to businesses on a global level. KLS has expertise in registration of entities and business management under applicable laws in India.
KLS’s core field includes corporate legal matters and IPR-related matters such as protection of business at various levels like trademark registration, patent registration, copyright registration, and liaison with government offices.
Start Your Company’s Operations Legally and Smoothly
What is Commencement of Business?
Once a company is incorporated under the Companies Act, 2013, it cannot start its business activities or commence operations without fulfilling certain conditions mandated by law. Commencement of Business is a formal declaration by the company that it is ready to begin its business activities legally.
Legal Requirement for Commencement of Business
Section 10 of the Companies Act, 2013
Rule 15 of the Companies (Incorporation) Rules, 2014
When is Commencement of Business Needed?
It is mandatory for companies with share capital (Private and Public companies)
It is a prerequisite before starting any business operations or exercising borrowing powers
What is Form INC-20A?
Form INC-20A is the declaration of commencement of business that companies must file with the Registrar of Companies (ROC). Filing this form confirms that the company has:
Received the subscription amount for its shares (at least 25% of the nominal value of shares applied for, fully paid up)
Obtained a declaration from the subscribers to the memorandum confirming payment
📋 Key Points about Form INC-20A
Feature
Details
Who files
All companies (except One Person Company)
When to file
Within 180 days from the date of incorporation
Filing mode
Online through the MCA portal
Documents to attach
Declaration by subscribers and directors about share subscription
Fee
Nil (but late filing attracts penalties)
Penalty for non-filing
Up to ₹5,000 and company cannot commence business
🧭 Steps to File Form INC-20A
Complete Subscription
Ensure at least 25% of share value is paid by subscribers to the MOA.
Prepare Declaration
Directors and subscribers declare payment of share money.
Upload Documents on MCA Portal
Fill Form INC-20A online.
Upload signed declaration and director’s consent.
Submit & Obtain Acknowledgment
Receive confirmation and file acknowledgment from ROC.
⚠️ Consequences of Non-Compliance
The company cannot commence business or exercise borrowing powers without filing INC-20A.
Company and officers liable to a penalty of ₹5,000.
Delay in filing may invite further regulatory scrutiny.
🛠️ How KLS Advisors Can Help
We support your company in smooth commencement of business:
Guidance on share subscription and payments
Drafting and notarization of subscriber declarations
Filing Form INC-20A with MCA within deadlines
Handling queries and compliance follow-ups with ROC
Filing Form INC-20A is a mandatory legal step for companies to start business operations post-incorporation. Timely compliance safeguards your company from penalties and ensures seamless business initiation.