Free Consultation by Expert

Overview

Alteration of Memorandum and Articles of Association (MoA and AoA)

The Memorandum of Association (MoA) and Articles of Association (AoA) are the two fundamental documents that define a company's objectives, structure, and operational framework. The MoA outlines the company’s scope, name, registered office, and authorized capital, while the AoA contains the rules and regulations governing the internal management and decision-making processes.

Companies often need to alter these documents due to business expansion, changes in operations, shifting registered offices, or modifying governance structures. Any amendment must comply with the Companies Act, 2013, and be approved by shareholders and the Registrar of Companies (ROC).

Importance

1. Business Expansion : Allows companies to add or modify business activities.

2. Change in Capital Structure : Enables increase or decrease in authorized share capital.

3. Legal Compliance : Ensures company operations align with regulatory requirements.

4. Adaptability : Helps businesses modify governance structures and internal rules.

5. Facilitates Mergers & Restructuring : restructuring, name change, or conversions.



Documents Required

The required documents depend on whether the alteration is in the MoA, AoA, or both.

Common Documents for Any Alteration

Additional Documents Based on Type of Alteration

Change in Company Name

Change in Registered Office (Inter-State)

Change in Object Clause

Increase in Authorized Capital

Change in Shareholding Rules




Features

Features & Benefits of Alteration of Memorandum and Articles of Association (MoA and AoA)

Mandatory Shareholder Approval
Alterations require shareholder consent via a Special Resolution.
ROC Filing Requirement
Changes must be reported to the Registrar of Companies (ROC).
Different Forms for Different Changes
Forms MGT-14, SH-7, and RUN may be required based on the type of alteration.
Impact on Legal Identity
Some alterations, like name change or capital modification, require official updates in company records and licenses.
Object Clause Amendment Requires
Change in business activity must be approved by shareholders and the ROC.

Alteration of Memorandum

Inter-State Registered Office
Requires Regional Director (RD) clearance and newspaper publication.
Governance Structure Modifications
Changes in voting rights, board structure, and other rules can be made through AoA alterations.
Essential for Fundraising & Mergers
Allows adjustments in capital structure, shareholder rights, and governance.
Public Notice May Be Required
Some alterations, such as a registered office change across states, require publication in newspapers.
Permanent Impact
Once approved, alterations become legally binding and must be adhered to by the company.



Comparison with Related Services

Feature MoA Alteration AoA Alteration Company Name Change Increase in Authorized Capital
Governing Law Companies Act, 2013 Companies Act, 2013 Companies Act, 2013 Companies Act, 2013
Requires Shareholder Approval Yes Yes Yes Yes
ROC Filing Required Yes Yes Yes Yes
Board Approval Needed Yes Yes Yes Yes
Special Resolution (EGM) Yes Yes Yes Yes
Change in Business Activities Yes No No No
Change in Governance Rules No Yes No No
Requires RUN Form No No Yes No
Approval from Regional Director Only for Registered Office Change No No No
Impact on Company Structure Yes Yes Yes Yes



Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between MoA and AoA?

The MoA defines a company’s objectives and scope, while the AoA outlines internal rules and governance.

How can a company change its name?

A company must pass a Special Resolution, obtain ROC approval, and update its name across all legal documents.

Is shareholder approval mandatory for altering MoA or AoA?

Yes, a Special Resolution (approved by at least 75% of shareholders) is required.

What forms are required to alter MoA and AoA?

MGT-14 is required for any alteration. Additional forms like SH-7 (for capital changes) or RUN (for name changes) may be needed.

Can the registered office be changed through MoA alteration?

Yes, but if moving to another state, Regional Director approval and public notice are required.

How long does it take for the ROC to approve alterations?

Approval usually takes 7-15 days after filing the required documents.

Is government approval needed for changing business activities?

Yes, the ROC must approve changes in the Object Clause of the MoA.

What happens if a company does not update its MoA/AoA?

Failure to update changes with the ROC can result in penalties and legal non-compliance.