Benefits for Small Companies in India

Introduction

A small company enjoys several compliance benefits under the Companies Act in India. These advantages reduce the legal workload and allow founders to stay focused on growth. Small companies also save costs as many filings and reporting requirements are simplified. This blog explains the updated limits and the key benefits available to small companies today.

What Is a Small Company and Who Can Claim It    ?

A small company is defined under Section 2(85) of the Companies Act. The Government revised the limits through the amendment published on 1 December 2025. This update expanded the number of businesses that can qualify.

To be treated as a small company, the business must meet the following:

Eligibility Criteria (Latest Limits 2025)   

• Paid up capital is 10 crore or less

• Turnover is 100 crore or less as per audited financials

• It is a private limited company

• It is not a holding company or subsidiary

• It is not registered under Section 8

• It is not a company notified under special categories by MCA

These conditions are available on www.mca.gov.in and apply for every assessment year.

Annual Compliance Applicable to a Small Company   

Even though a small company enjoys several exemptions, it still must follow the basic annual compliance requirements. These help maintain transparency and keep the business active on the MCA portal.

1. Director’s Interest Disclosure  

Directors must disclose their interest in other entities through Form MBP 1 in the first board meeting of each year or whenever any change occurs.

2. Appointment of Directors  

At least one director must be a resident of India. A person staying in India for 180 days or more in a calendar year meets this requirement.

3. Appointment of Auditors  

The Board must appoint the first auditor within 30 days of incorporation. In the first AGM, the company must appoint the statutory auditor for a period of five years and file Form ADT 1 with the Registrar.

4. Annual General Meeting  

A small company must hold its AGM every year at its registered office or another approved venue. The notice should be sent at least 21 clear days before the meeting unless held on shorter notice.

5. Board Meetings  

A small company must hold at least two board meetings in a financial year. There must be a minimum gap of 90 days between the two meetings. Directors may attend the meeting in person or through video conferencing.

6. Filing of Financial Statements  

The financial statements must be filed using Form AOC 4.Copies of approved financial statements must be shared with members at least 21 clear days before the AGM.

7. Filing of Annual Return  

A small company must file its annual return within 60 days of the AGM using Form MGT 7A. Where no AGM is held, the return must be filed within 60 days from the date the AGM should have been held.

8. Statutory Registers  

A small company must maintain statutory registers, including:

• Register of members

• Register of debenture holders

• Register of other security holders

Benefits and Exemptions Available to a Small Company   

A small company enjoys several relaxations that help founders save time, reduce paperwork, and limit penalties.

1. Relaxed Board Meeting Requirements  

Only two board meetings are required each year. This is a major advantage because other companies must hold at least four.

2. Financial Statement Benefits  

A small company does not need to prepare a cash flow statement. This reduces accounting work and review time.

3. Simplified Annual Return  

Small companies can file Form MGT 7A, which is a short and simple annual return. If there is no company secretary, a single director can sign the return.

4. Auditor Rotation Not Required  

Section 139(2) on auditor rotation does not apply. This allows the company to continue with the same auditor without mandatory change.

5. Internal Control and Audit Exemptions  

Auditors of a small company do not need to report on internal financial controls. Internal audit is also not required unless the company falls under a special notified class.

6. Lower Penalties  

Section 446B provides that a small company pays half of the normal penalty for defaults under Sections 92, 117, and 137. This reduces the risk for startups and small businesses.

These benefits make compliance easier, faster, and more cost effective. Many founders share that shifting to small company status allows them to focus more on operations and less on paperwork.

 How Ebizfiling Works for You ?

• We check your paid up capital and turnover to confirm small company status

• We guide you on the exact forms required under MCA rules

• We prepare MGT 7A, AOC 4, minutes, registers, and AGM documents

• We complete all filings with the Registrar within deadlines

• We provide reminders and compliance support throughout the year

Conclusion   

A small company enjoys multiple benefits that reduce compliance pressure and cost. With simple reporting and lower penalties, founders can manage their business activities with ease. If you want support to identify your status and complete filings on time, Ebizfiling can guide you at every step.

Suggested Read :

Pvt Ltd Company Registration

File Form MGT 7A and AOC 4

Documents Needed to Start a New Company

Important ROC Registration for Small Businesses

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