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Attention: File GSTR 9/9C by 31 Dec — Avoid Penalties Now! Talk to our expert

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Best Company Secretarial Consultation in India: Comprehensive, affordable, and online. Get help with incorporation, compliance, governance, and advisory services.

Areas of Expertise

Legal Compliances

Annual Compliances

Expert Board Advisors

Corporate Governance

Corporate Restructuring

Corporate Funding

FEMA Advisory and Compliance

RBI Advisory and Complaint

SEBI Registration and Complaint

NCLT Dispute

Arbitration and Alternative Dispute Resolution

Secretarial Audit

Cost Audit

We understand that navigating legal requirements can be a daunting task for businesses. Our team of secretary services experts can help you identify and comply with all necessary legal regulations. Secretarial services will ensure that your business is always operating and adhering to the law. From drafting legal agreements to providing comprehensive support, we offer a range of legal and company secretarial consultations to help you stay compliant. Our secretaries will make sure that all the records are accurate and up-to-date. Choose our corporate secretarial package that covers filing all the necessary forms and reports with the regulatory bodies, and ensuring that the company adheres to all applicable laws.

      Updates

      Compliance ActivityFormDue DateApplicable Period
      Annual Return of LLPForm 11May 30, 2024FY 2023-24
      Statement of Account & SolvencyForm 8October 30, 2024FY 2023-24
      KYC of Directors/Designated PartnersDIR-3 KYCSeptember 30, 2024FY 2023-24
      Return of DepositsDPT-3June 30, 2024FY 2023-24
      Appointment of AuditorADT-1October 14, 2024Within 15 days of AGM conclusion
      Filing of Financial StatementsAOC-4October 30, 2024Within 30 days of AGM conclusion
      Filing of Annual ReturnMGT-7November 29, 2024Within 60 days of AGM conclusion
      Half-Yearly Return for Outstanding Payments to MSMEsMSME-1April 30, 2024October 2023 – March 2024
      October 31, 2024April 2024 – September 2024
      Reconciliation of Share Capital Audit ReportPAS-6May 30, 2024October 2023 – March 2024
      November 29, 2024April 2024 – September 2024

      What is a Company Secretary (CS)?

      A Company Secretary (CS) is a key executive within a company, responsible for ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory standards. As an expert in corporate governance, the Company Secretary plays a vital role in guiding the company’s leadership to operate within legal frameworks, thereby protecting the company’s integrity and reputation. Their core responsibilities include:

      • Advising the Board of Directors: The Company Secretary provides critical advice to board members, ensuring they understand and adhere to their legal responsibilities and regulatory requirements.
      • Maintaining Corporate Compliance: This includes ensuring that the company’s constitution, bylaws, and other corporate documents are updated and aligned with current laws and regulations.
      • Organizing Meetings: The Company Secretary arranges and facilitates board meetings and general shareholder meetings, ensuring proper documentation and adherence to protocols.
      • Filing Statutory Documents: They oversee the timely submission of annual returns and other mandatory filings with the Registrar of Companies, ensuring compliance.
      • Keeping Corporate Records: This role involves managing and updating essential company records, such as registers of directors, shareholders, and other critical documents.
      • Liaising with Regulatory Bodies: The Company Secretary acts as a direct point of contact between the company and regulatory agencies, fostering transparency and addressing any compliance-related inquiries.
      • By fulfilling these responsibilities, the Company Secretary supports the company’s accountability, legal standing, and operational efficiency.

      How Vakilsearch's CS Helps?

      A Certified Company Secretary is crucial to the governance structure of any organisation, working alongside Chartered Accountants to ensure thorough Compliance Management and robust Investor Relations. The role of Company Secretary Executives includes collaboration with Principal Secretaries to support Board Members and Non-Executive Directors in their oversight and strategic functions. The Chief Administrative Officer often depends on the Company Secretary's expertise to streamline administrative processes and enhance organisational efficiency.

      The Certified Company Secretary plays a pivotal role in Corporate Planning. They contribute to creating and executing business strategies that align with both short-term and long-term goals.Vakilsearch's CS team can help you with all aspects of corporate governance, including:

      • Advising you on your legal and regulatory obligations
      • Drafting and reviewing corporate documents, such as your constitution, shareholder agreements, and board meeting resolutions
      • Filing the company's annual returns and other statutory documents with the Registrar of Companies
      • Arranging and conducting board meetings and general meetings of shareholders
      • Maintaining the company's corporate records
      • Acting as the company's liaison with regulatory bodies

      When do you need a Company Secretary?

      All publicly listed companies are required to appoint a CS. However, private companies are also strongly advised to appoint a CS, even if they are not required to do so. A CS can help private companies to avoid costly compliance mistakes and to ensure that they are operating in a compliant and ethical manner.Here are some specific examples of when you might need a Company Secretary:

      • When you are starting a new business
      • When you are making changes to your company's structure, such as merging or demerging with another company
      • When you are raising investment from external investors
      • When you are expanding your business into new markets
      • When you are facing regulatory scrutiny
        If you are unsure whether or not you need a Company Secretary, you should consult with a qualified professional.

      List of Company Secretarial Consultation

      The list of company secretarial services available in India is diverse and includes services such as:

      • Business Registrations / Company Formation for NBFC, Nidhi, Producer, NGO Registration, Public Company
      • Raising Capital through Issue of Equity, Preference Shares, Debentures and Equity Shares with Differential Voting Rights Issue
      • Conversions / Corporate Restructuring such as Private Limited to LLP, OPC into Private Limited, Private Limited into OPC, LLP to Private Limited, Private Limited to Public Company
      • Investment from Abroad / Overseas Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), Overseas Direct Investment (ODI), External Commercial Borrowings (ECB)
      • Closure / Strike-off of company / Liquidation and Winding up of a company

      Duties of an Online CS?

      A company secretary is essential to the management and governance of a business. In addition to keeping track of corporate records, providing administrative support, and advising the board of directors on legal and financial issues, they are in charge of making sure that legal and regulatory obligations are followed. The following are just a few of the specific duties of a CS online:

      Ensuring compliance with the Companies Act of 2013 and other legal and regulatory requirements

      • Maintaining statutory registers, such as registers of members, directors, and charges
      • Filing statutory returns and other paperwork with the ROC
      • Organising and attending board meetings, and preparing minutes of the meetings
      • Providing administrative support, such as drafting letters, managing email correspondence, and maintaining files and records
      • Advising the board of directors on legal and financial matters, such as corporate law, taxation, and financial reporting.Business Registrations / Company Formation for NBFC, Nidhi, Producer, NGO Registration, Public Company
      • Raising Capital through Issue of Equity, Preference Shares, Debentures and Equity Shares with Differential Voting Rights Issue
      • Conversions / Corporate Restructuring such as Private Limited to LLP, OPC into Private Limited, Private Limited into OPC, LLP to Private Limited, Private Limited to Public Company
      • Investment from Abroad / Overseas Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), Overseas Direct Investment (ODI), External Commercial Borrowings (ECB)
      • Closure / Strike-off of company / Liquidation and Winding up of a company

      Why is Company Secretarial Consultation Important?

      Company secretarial consultation plays a crucial role in ensuring the smooth operation and compliance of a company. Here's why they are important:

      • Legal Compliance: Company secretarial services help ensure that the company adheres to all relevant laws, regulations, and statutory requirements. They assist in maintaining accurate and up-to-date records, filing required documents with government authorities, and ensuring timely compliance with legal obligations.
      • Corporate Governance: Company secretaries help maintain proper corporate governance practices. They facilitate communication between the board of directors, shareholders, and other stakeholders, helping to ensure transparency, accountability, and ethical decision-making within the company.
      • Shareholder Relations: Company secretaries manage interactions with shareholders, including organizing and documenting shareholder meetings, preparing meeting agendas and minutes, and ensuring that shareholders' rights are respected.
      • Board Support: Company secretaries provide support to the board of directors by coordinating meetings, distributing relevant materials, and ensuring that board decisions are properly recorded and implemented.
      • Records Maintenance: They are responsible for maintaining accurate and complete company records, including financial statements, shareholder registers, and other important documents. This helps ensure transparency and accountability and simplifies audits and regulatory inspections.
      • Risk Management: Company secretaries play a role in identifying and managing legal and regulatory risks that the company may face. By staying informed about changes in laws and regulations, they help the company adapt and make informed decisions to mitigate potential risks.
      • Company Changes and Transactions: During various stages of a company's life, such as mergers, acquisitions, or restructuring, company secretaries facilitate the necessary legal processes, documentations, and filings.
      • Time and Resource Savings: Outsourcing company secretarial consultation can save valuable time and resources for the management team of the company. It allows them to focus on core business operations while professionals handle the complex administrative and legal tasks.
      • Expertise: Company secretaries are knowledgeable about corporate laws, regulations, and best practices. Their expertise helps the company navigate legal complexities and avoid costly errors.
      • Reputation and Credibility: Proper corporate governance and compliance enhance a company's reputation and credibility in the eyes of investors, clients, and the public. Company secretarial consultation contribute to maintaining the company's good standing and positive image.

      What Are the Challenges Faced by a Firm or Company?

      Companies and corporations encounter a variety of internal and external problems that may have an impact on their long-term success. The following are a some of the typical difficulties businesses and enterprises encounter:

      • Increasing Competition: As the business landscape becomes more crowded, firms and companies may struggle to differentiate themselves and attract customers
      • Changing Consumer Preferences: As consumer preferences and expectations evolve, firms and companies may need to adapt their products or services to remain relevant
      • Technological Advancements: Advances in technology can provide opportunities for firms and companies, but they can also create challenges as businesses try to keep up with the latest developments
      • Economic Volatility: Economic downturns, recessions, and other economic factors can impact the financial health of firms and companies, making it challenging to plan for the future. Effective management, strategic planning, and a focus on innovation can help firms and companies overcome these challenges and ensure long-term success.

      Benefits of Hiring a Company Secretary (CS)?

      Having an CS online can provide a range of benefits to a firm or company. Some of the specific benefits of having an online CS may include:

      • Ensuring Compliance with Laws and Regulations: A company secretary can help ensure that a firm or company is meeting its legal and regulatory obligations, avoiding fines, penalties, or legal action.
      • Good Corporate Governance: A company secretary can help establish and maintain effective corporate governance practices, which can build stakeholder confidence and protect the interests of the company.
      • A company secretary (CS) can provide objective advice to the board of directors, helping to balance the interests of different stakeholders, such as shareholders, employees, and customers.
      • Expert Advice on Legal and Financial Matters: A company secretary (CS) can provide valuable insights on legal and financial matters, helping the board of directors make informed decisions.
      Company Secretary

      Role of a Corporate Secretary in India?

      In India, the corporate secretary plays a crucial role in the effective governance of a company. A corporate secretary in India may have the following specific roles and duties:

      • Ensuring compliance with the Companies Act, 2013 and other legal and regulatory requirements
      • Keeping track of business documents such share registers, meeting minutes, and other required registers
      • The submission of statutory returns and other paperwork to the Registrar of Companies (ROC)
      • Advising the board of directors on legal and financial matters, such as corporate law, taxation, and financial reporting
      • Fostering dialogue between the board of directors and shareholders, as well as promoting accountability and transparency in corporate decision-making
      • Giving the board of directors administrative support, such as setting up agendas and scheduling meetings.

      Ensuring a company's effective governance, safeguarding the interests of its stakeholders, and maintaining compliance with legal and regulatory obligations are all important roles played by the online CS.

      Why Vakilsearch for Company Secretary (CS) Consultation?

      Consulting a Company Secretary provides invaluable insights into various aspects of legal matters and corporate governance. We are adept at interpreting and applying General Laws as per the Company Secretaries Act, 1980 to ensure compliance and effective management. Whether you need guidance on Due Diligence, Secretarial Audit, or navigating complex Advanced Tax Laws, our Company Secretary can offer expert advice.

      They also help in handling tax returns, Insurance Law and Practice, and overseeing Corporate & Management Accounting to maintain financial integrity and regulatory adherence. Here are few reasons why you must consult our CS:

    • Expertise and Experience
    • Our team of highly experienced and knowledgeable Company Secretaries (CSs) possesses in-depth expertise in corporate law and regulatory compliance. They stay abreast of the latest legal developments, ensuring your business remains compliant and up-to-date.

    • Effortless Compliance
    • As a Corporate Planner, we simplify the complexities of legal compliance, helping businesses strategically align their operations with regulatory requirements. With their expertise in Financial Management, they can provide strategic recommendations to improve financial performance and compliance.

    • Innovative Online Platform
    • Experience the convenience of our user-friendly online platform, designed to streamline the management of your legal and secretarial needs. Access essential services, manage statutory responsibilities, and track progress from anywhere, anytime.

    • Customer Satisfaction Guaranteed
    • We are committed to providing exceptional customer service, as evidenced by our satisfied clientele's positive reviews and testimonials. Join our community of businesses that have benefited from our reliable and client-centric approach.

    • Transparent and Competitive Pricing
    • We understand the importance of cost-effectiveness and offer transparent, competitive pricing for our CS consultations. This ensures that businesses receive top-notch support without compromising their budget.

    • Comprehensive Service Offering
    • Our comprehensive range of services extends beyond Company Secretary functions, encompassing legal advisory services, trademark registration, and other essential business requirements. We are a one-stop solution for your legal and secretarial needs.

    • Technologically Advanced Solutions
    • Embrace efficiency with our technologically advanced solutions. We integrate technology into our services to streamline processes, providing a seamless and hassle-free experience managing legal and secretarial tasks for your business.

      Reviews

      customer profile

      Akhil Sidharth

      starstarstarstarstar

      “I had a great experience using Vakilsearch's Company Secretarial Services Online. They helped me stay compliant with all the legal formalities. They literally helped me in every step and made the entire process easy and hassle-free. Highly recommended.”

      customer profile

      Neha Singh

      starstarstarstarstar

      “The Company Secretarial Services was exactly what I needed for my business. Their team helped me with everything from filing annual returns to managing my company's statutory records. They saved me time and money, and provided exceptional service. Really impressed”

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      Company Secretary FAQs

      Discover answers to frequently asked questions about becoming a Company Secretary, including qualifications, required skills, exam stages, career pathways, and the benefits of CS roles for businesses

      Applicants must complete their class 10+2 from a recognised institution in any discipline, excluding fine arts, if they choose to follow the company secretary programme. Following that, you are qualified to submit an application and register for the CSEE T's first level of the CS Foundation Programme.
      The skills required to be an effective company secretary include strong communication and interpersonal skills, attention to detail, and knowledge of corporate laws and regulations.
      A company secretary can contribute to the success of a company by ensuring legal compliance, good corporate governance, and providing expert advice on legal and financial matters.
      Indeed, having a company secretary may be advantageous for small businesses, especially when it comes to ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.
      The main difference between a company secretary and a company director is that the company secretary is responsible for administrative and compliance matters, while the company director is responsible for the strategic direction and management of the company.
      The CS Executive exam comprises three stages: CS Foundation Course, CS Executive Programme, and CS Professional Programme.
      Candidates must complete their class 10+2 education, B.com or any masters degree except fine arts from a recognised institution before registering for the CS Professional Course or the CSEET Exam.
      The CS Course typically takes 3 to 5 years to complete and is divided into the Executive Level and the Professional Level.
      The CSEET (CS Executive Entrance Test) is an entry exam required for enrollment in the CS Executive Programme.
      Yes, candidates who have completed professional courses such as Chartered Accountancy or Cost Accountancy may qualify for direct admission to the CS Executive Programme.
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      Authors

      Written by Akash, Reviewed by Harshitha. Last updated on Nov 8 2024, 11:54 AM

      Harshitha, BBA.LLB. (Hons.), specializes in various legal disciplines including GST advice, tax-saving strategies, ITR filing, and LLP annual compliance. With her expertise, she provides valuable guidance to clients across diverse industries.

      Akash G Varadaraj, a legal content writer at Vakilsearch, brings over 3 years of experience in the legal niche. His mission is to simplify complex legal matters into understandable terms even for a layman. Collaborating closely with senior lawyers and SMEs, he ensures the delivery of top-notch content.