Oppression and Mismanagement in a Company

Jun 12, 2025
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As companies grow and evolve, differences of opinion and disputes naturally arise, sometimes over strategy, sometimes over control, and sometimes over financial decisions.

While many of these conflicts can be managed through negotiation or internal governance mechanisms, certain situations can cross a line, leading to behaviour that harms the rights of minority shareholders or threatens the health of the company itself. This is where the law draws a clear boundary.

When such conduct becomes oppressive, abusive, or results in serious mismanagement, the Indian legal system provides special protections under the Companies Act, 2013. These protections are crucial because, without them, minority shareholders and the company could suffer long-term damage.

In this blog, we’ll explore the meaning of oppression and mismanagement, explain the legal remedies available under Sections 241–246 of the Companies Act, and guide you through who can file a complaint, when, and how.

Table of Contents

Defining Oppression and Mismanagement

The Companies Act, 2013, does not explicitly define oppression and mismanagement. Instead, their meanings have evolved through judicial interpretations and case law.

In simple terms:

  • Oppression involves burdensome, harsh, or wrongful conduct toward minority shareholders. It typically refers to situations where the majority shareholders abuse their power to harm the minority's rights or interests.

  • Mismanagement refers to gross mismanagement of company affairs, which could lead to financial loss or harm to the company’s reputation or operations. It often involves negligence, fraud, or actions taken in bad faith by those in control.

Legal Remedies under Sections 241–246

Sections 241 to 246 of the Companies Act, 2013 empower company members to approach the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) if they believe the company’s affairs are being conducted in a manner that amounts to oppression or mismanagement.

If the tribunal is satisfied, it can order remedies such as:

  • Regulation of the company’s future conduct
  • Removal of directors
  • Termination, modification, or setting aside of certain agreements
  • Recovery of misappropriated funds
  • Preventive actions to safeguard the company’s interests

A Detailed Explanation of Section 241

Section 241 of the Companies Act, 2013 is the core provision that allows members to seek relief from oppression and mismanagement.

Section 241 exists to protect minority shareholders and the company itself from conduct that threatens their interests. It ensures that no shareholder or director misuses their powers to the detriment of others or the company.

Under Section 241, a member can apply to the NCLT if:

  • The company’s affairs are being conducted in a manner oppressive to any member(s).
  • There has been mismanagement that threatens to cause serious prejudice to the interests of the company, members, or the public.

How can an Application be made under Section 241?

Filing an application under Section 241 involves a specific legal process:

Who Can Apply?

Eligible members include:

  • Shareholders holding at least 10% of the company’s issued share capital
  • In companies without share capital, at least 1/5th of the total number of members
    In certain cases, members may request NCLT permission to file even if they do not meet the above thresholds (especially where the majority is acting in bad faith).

Grounds for Filing

The application must clearly describe:

  • Acts of oppression (specific conduct harming member rights)
  • Acts of mismanagement (negligence, fraud, misconduct, etc.)
  • Resulting harm to the company or its members

Documentation Required

  • Petition/application under Section 241
  • Evidence of shareholding or membership eligibility
  • Documentary proof of oppressive/mismanaged conduct
  • Affidavit verifying the facts
  • Court fees as prescribed

Where to File?

Applications must be filed with the relevant bench of the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) having jurisdiction over the company’s registered office.

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Who Can File an Application under Section 241 of the Companies Act, 2013?

Eligibility to file under Section 241 depends on the applicant’s status and shareholding:

H3 - Category H3 - Minimum threshold to apply
Shareholders in companies with share capital Minimum 10% of the issued share capital
Members of companies without share capital At least 1/5th of the total number of members
Exception (with NCLT permission) Members who can demonstrate exceptional circumstances, such as fraud or bad faith actions by the majority

In addition, the Central Government can also apply under Section 241(2) if it believes the affairs of the company are conducted in a manner prejudicial to public interest.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Oppression and Mismanagement under the Companies Act, 2013?

Oppression refers to conduct by the majority or those in control of a company that is burdensome, harsh, or wrongful to minority shareholders or other members. This includes denying members their rights, misusing powers, or making decisions that unfairly prejudice certain shareholders.

Mismanagement involves irregular, dishonest, or inefficient management that could harm the company’s affairs, financial health, or reputation. This may include siphoning off funds, non-compliance with the law, or actions detrimental to the company’s interests.

What are Sections 241 and 242 of the Companies Act, 2013?

  • Section 241 allows a company member (with the required shareholding) to file a complaint to the NCLT if they believe:
    • The affairs of the company are being conducted in a manner oppressive to any member or prejudicial to public interest or company interest.
    • There has been mismanagement that may harm the company’s business or finances.

  • Section 242 outlines the powers of the NCLT to provide remedies if it finds the complaint valid. These remedies include:
    • Removing directors
    • Regulating the conduct of the company’s affairs
    • Cancelling or modifying agreements
    • Restricting share transfers
    • Any other order to bring an end to the matters complained of

Can a suit be filed without notice?

In general, civil suits require prior notice if specified under law or contract. However, in urgent or exceptional cases (e.g., injunctions or matters of immediate harm), courts may allow filing without notice to the other party initially—this is called ex parte action. But such relief is usually temporary, and notice must follow.

Can a company file a case against an employee?

Yes, a company can file a legal case against an employee in situations such as:

  • Breach of employment contract
  • Theft or misappropriation of company assets
  • Violation of confidentiality or non-compete clauses
  • Harassment or misconduct
  • Fraud or criminal activity

The nature of the case (civil or criminal) will determine whether it is filed in a civil court, criminal court, or through a regulatory body like the labor commissioner or cybercrime unit.

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KYC of Directors: Form DIR-3 Requirements, Fees, Penalty & How to Apply

KYC of Directors: Form DIR-3 Requirements, Fees, Penalty & How to Apply

In the corporate landscape, transparency and compliance are not just good practices but mandatory. One of the key compliance steps every company director needs to follow is KYC (Know Your Customer) for directors.

Introduced by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA), this process ensures that accurate and up-to-date details of directors are maintained in official records. This is important not only for good governance but also for maintaining trust and accountability in the ecosystem.

In this blog, we’ll explain everything you need to know about Director KYC- its purpose, who needs to file it, the steps involved, fees, penalties, and how to apply online with ease.

Table of Contents

DIR-3 KYC

Form DIR-3 KYC is an important annual compliance step that every person holding a Director Identification Number (DIN) must complete. Whether you're currently a director in a company or not, if you have a DIN, you must file this form each year.

The Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) mandates filing this form every year to ensure that directors’ records are current and accurate.

Failing to file this form within the deadline will lead to the DIN being marked as “Deactivated due to non-filing of DIR-3 KYC,” restricting a director from participating in company matters until compliance is restored.

Purpose of the Form DIR-3 KYC

The purpose of DIR-3 KYC is to keep director information in sync with official records and maintain a transparent and compliant corporate ecosystem. It ensures that directors update their information annually with the MCA.

Who Has to File e-Form DIR-3 KYC?

Every individual who holds a DIN, regardless of whether they are currently serving as a director, must file the e-Form DIR-3 KYC with the MCA each year. This includes:

There are no exemptions, so it's essential to comply regardless of your status or position.

Applicable Fee For Form DIR-3 KYC

  • Filing Fee: Free if filed on or before September 30
  • Penalty: ₹5,000 if filed after the due date, and the DIN will be deactivated until payment is made

Due Date for Filing DIR 3 KYC Form

The KYC form must be submitted by September 30 every year. There are two formats:

  • DIR-3 KYC: For first-time filers or those updating details
  • DIR-3 KYC Web: For those who have filed previously and have no changes

Penalties for Late Filing of the Form DIR-3 KYC

Missing the September 30 deadline results in:

  • DIN Deactivation
  • A penalty of ₹5,000 to reactivate the DIN

Documents Required to File DIR-3 KYC Form

Directors need the following documents:

  • Self-attested PAN card
  • Self-attested Aadhaar card
  • Passport (if available)
  • Valid mobile number and email ID
  • Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)

Key Verification Steps for Filing the Form DIR-3 KYC

Filing the DIR-3 KYC form may seem straightforward, but following the steps carefully is important to ensure successful submission and avoid any delays or penalties. Here's a detailed breakdown of the process:

Step 1: Collect Personal Documents

Before starting the filing process, gather all the required documents.

Step 2: Ensure Accuracy of Details

Ensure that all the information you enter in the form matches the details mentioned in your official documents (especially PAN and Aadhaar). Any mismatch can lead to rejection or delays in processing.

Step 3: Verify with OTP

Once you enter your email ID and mobile number, an OTP (One-Time Password) will be sent for verification. This is an essential part of the KYC process and ensures that your contact information is valid and belongs to you.

Step 4: Sign with a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)

The DIR-3 KYC form must be digitally signed by the director using a valid DSC (Class 2 or Class 3). This step certifies the authenticity of the information being submitted.

Step 5: Get it attested by a Professional

After signing the form with your DSC, the form must be certified by a practising professional like a Chartered Accountant (CA) or a Company Secretary (CS). The professional must verify the form’s contents and affix their own digital signature. Their membership number, certificate of practice number, and contact details must also be provided.

Step 6: Upload the Form to the MCA Portal

Once the form is digitally signed and attested, upload it on the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) portal.

Process After Submitting the DIR-3 KYC Form

Once the DIR-3 KYC form is successfully submitted on the MCA portal, the following steps take place:

  • SRN Generation: An SRN (Service Request Number) is instantly generated upon submission. This SRN is important for tracking your application and for any future correspondence with the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA).
  • Email Acknowledgement: The director receives an acknowledgment email at their registered email address. This email confirms the receipt and approval of the DIR-3 KYC form and usually includes a receipt of the submission. It is advisable to save this receipt for your records.
  • MCA Verification: The MCA system verifies the details provided in the form. If all information is correct, the status of the Director Identification Number (DIN) is updated to reflect successful KYC completion.
  • Error Handling: If there are any errors or discrepancies in the submitted information, the form may be rejected, and the director will be required to correct the errors and resubmit the form.
  • Late Filing Consequences: If the DIR-3 KYC form is filed after the due date (generally 30th September), a late fee of Rs. 5,000 is applicable. In such cases, the DIN remains deactivated due to non-filing until the form is submitted and the late fee is paid.

Key Points to Remember:

  • Save the SRN and acknowledgment receipt for future reference.
  • Check your email for approval or any further instructions from MCA.
  • If filed late, ensure payment of the prescribed penalty to reactivate your DIN.

Conclusion

Filing your DIR-3 KYC might feel like just another task, but it plays a big role in keeping things smooth and compliant for you as a company director. It helps the government maintain updated records, ensures transparency, and keeps your Director Identification Number (DIN) active.

If you miss the September 30 deadline, your DIN can be deactivated, which means you won’t be able to sign documents or carry out official duties as a director. So, take a few minutes each year to check your details, fill out the form, and stay compliant.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is KYC for directors?

KYC (Know Your Customer) for directors refers to the mandatory process where every director with a Director Identification Number (DIN) must submit personal details and verify identity annually by filing Form DIR-3 KYC with the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA).

What is the last date for filing DIR-3 KYC?

The last date to file DIR-3 KYC is 30th September of every financial year for directors who were allotted DIN on or before 31st March of the preceding financial year.

How to check KYC status of directors?

You can check the KYC status of a director by visiting the MCA portal, navigating to the “MCA Services” section, and selecting ‘View DIN Status’. Enter the DIN to see if the KYC is marked as “KYC Verified” or “Deactivated due to non-filing”.

What happens if director KYC is not done?

If DIR-3 KYC is not filed by the due date, the DIN is deactivated, and the director cannot sign any filings with the ROC or act as a director. A penalty of ₹5,000 is imposed for delayed filing.

Sarthak Goyal

Sarthak Goyal is a Chartered Accountant with 10+ years of experience in business process consulting, internal audits, risk management, and Virtual CFO services. He cleared his CA at 21, began his career in a PSU, and went on to establish a successful ₹8 Cr+ e-commerce venture.

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Parent Company: Meaning, Types, & Examples

Parent Company: Meaning, Types, & Examples

In today’s global economy, many of the world’s most successful businesses don’t operate as standalone entities. Instead, they function as parent companies, overseeing a network of subsidiaries that contribute to growth, stability, and strategic expansion.

A parent company plays an important role in controlling, supporting, and directing its subsidiary companies, whether for financial, operational, or strategic purposes.

In this blog, we’ll define a parent company, explore different types, compare it with holding companies, and examine its benefits and real-world examples, such as Alphabet, Tata Group, etc.

Table of Contents

What is a Parent Company?

A parent company is a business entity that owns and controls one or more subsidiary companies. This control is usually achieved by holding a majority share (over 50%) in the subsidiary’s stock. While the parent company exercises influence over key decisions, strategy, and financial management, the subsidiaries often continue to operate independently with their own management teams.

The relationship enables the parent company to consolidate resources, reduce risks, and gain access to new markets while maintaining a diversified business structure.

Parent Company vs Holding Company

Though often used interchangeably, parent companies and holding companies serve different purposes and levels of operational involvement.

Aspect Parent Company Holding Company
Operational role Actively manages and supports subsidiaries Primarily owns shares, with minimal direct involvement
Subsidiary control Often involved in daily operations Rarely involved in daily operations
Examples Tata Group Tata Sons

Examples of Parent Companies

Here are a few notable examples of parent companies and the subsidiaries they control:

  • Alphabet Inc.
    • Subsidiaries: Google, YouTube, Waymo, DeepMind
    • Overview: Acts as the parent for Google's core businesses and experimental ventures.
  • Unilever
    • Subsidiaries: Dove, Axe, Lipton, Ben & Jerry’s
      Overview: Owns and manages a diverse portfolio of consumer goods brands globally

  • Tata Group (India)
    • Subsidiaries: Google, YouTube, Waymo, DeepMind
    • Overview: Acts as the parent for Google's core businesses and experimental ventures.

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Types of Parent Company

Parent companies generally fall into two primary categories:

1. Holding Company

Key features of a holding company:

  • Owns majority shares in other companies.
  • Doesn’t directly engage in operations or sales.
  • Has control over its subsidiaries' major decisions.
  • Used for risk management, asset protection, and tax benefits.

Example: Tata Sons is the holding company of the Tata Group, which doesn't directly run these businesses but controls strategy and owns majority stakes.

2. Conglomerate

A conglomerate is a large business entity that owns and operates multiple companies across unrelated industries. Unlike a typical company that focuses on a single sector, a conglomerate diversifies its operations to spread risk, tap into different markets, and create multiple revenue streams.

Key Features of a Conglomerate:

  • Operates in diverse, unrelated sectors
  • Has a parent company that controls all subsidiaries
  • Subsidiaries often run independently, with strategic guidance from the parent company
  • Focuses on diversification, financial strength, and cross-industry synergies

Example: Tata Group operates in sectors from IT to steel to hospitality.

Benefits of the Parent Company

Establishing a parent company offers numerous strategic advantages:

  • Risk Diversification: Losses in one subsidiary don’t affect the entire business.
  • Financial Stability: Enables capital allocation and access to larger funding pools.
  • Tax Efficiency: Offers scope for tax optimisation across group entities.
  • Centralised Strategy: Unified direction and resource sharing improve efficiency.
  • Legal Protection: Limits liability and isolates financial risks.

These benefits make the parent-subsidiary model ideal for scaling operations across markets and industries.

How Do Parent Companies Work?

Parent companies function through a mix of ownership control and strategic management:

  • Ownership: Typically hold a majority stake in subsidiaries.
  • Oversight: Involved in major decisions, budgeting, reporting, and governance.
  • Independence: Subsidiaries retain autonomy for day-to-day operations.
  • Shared Services: Often provide HR, legal, and financial support to subsidiaries.

This model allows a parent company to guide subsidiaries while giving them room to innovate and grow.

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How to Become a Parent Company

Becoming a parent company typically involves gaining control over one or more other companies. This can be achieved through various methods, each offering different advantages and challenges. The most common routes include acquisitions, creating subsidiaries, or forming joint ventures.

  1. Acquiring a Company: One of the fastest ways to become a parent company is by acquiring an existing business.
  2. Creating a Subsidiary: Another way is by setting up a subsidiary company—a separate legal entity that is wholly owned and controlled by the parent. This allows the parent company to:
    • Enter new markets
    • Launch new products
    • Manage specific risks or intellectual property independently
  3. Forming a Joint Venture: A joint venture involves two or more companies collaborating to create a new business entity, sharing ownership, control, and profits.

Conclusion

By holding majority stakes in subsidiaries, a parent company can effectively manage risk, diversify its investments, and expand its reach across different industries or regions. This structure allows parent companies to leverage resources, streamline operations, and enter new markets without starting from scratch.

From acquisitions and mergers to joint ventures and subsidiary creation, becoming a parent company opens doors to new growth opportunities and market dominance.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is meant by the parent company?

A parent company is a business entity that owns and controls one or more subsidiary companies. It holds a majority stake in the subsidiary and has significant influence over the subsidiary's operations, decisions, and financial matters.

The parent company may also provide strategic direction, resources, and guidance, while the subsidiaries remain legally separate entities, often operating independently in their own markets or sectors.

How do I register a parent company?

To register a parent company, you’ll generally follow the same process as registering any company, with the added step of acquiring majority ownership in other companies or forming subsidiaries. Here’s a simplified process:

  • Choose the Business Structure: Decide if you want to set up a private limited company, a public limited company, or any other structure.
  • Obtain Necessary Approvals: If you plan on acquiring subsidiaries, ensure compliance with regulatory bodies (such as SEBI or RBI for foreign investments).
  • Register the Company: File the relevant documents with the Registrar of Companies and get the company incorporated.
  • Acquire Subsidiaries: Once your parent company is established, you can acquire controlling shares in other companies, making them your subsidiaries.

Depending on your business strategy, you may also establish a parent company by forming a joint venture, merger, or acquisition.

What qualifies as a parent company?

A parent company qualifies when it owns a majority stake (more than 50%) in one or more subsidiary companies. It must have the authority to control the operations and strategic decisions of the subsidiaries. The key characteristics of a parent company include:

  • Majority Ownership: Owns more than 50% of the voting shares in the subsidiary.
  • Control: Has the power to influence or direct the management and policies of the subsidiary.
  • Separate Legal Entity: While the parent company controls the subsidiary, both entities remain legally separate.

Is the parent company an owner?

Yes, a parent company is the owner of its subsidiaries. It owns a majority shareholding in the subsidiary companies, which gives it the authority to control its operations, direct its strategic goals, and influence its financial decisions.

While the subsidiaries operate as separate entities, the parent company effectively governs their overall direction, acting as the main stakeholder.

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Nipun Jain is a seasoned startup leader with 13+ years of experience across zero-to-one journeys, leading enterprise sales, partnerships, and strategy at high-growth startups. He currently heads Razorpay Rize, where he's building India's most loved startup enablement program and launched Rize Incorporation to simplify company registration for founders.

Previously, he founded Natty Niños and scaled it before exiting in 2021, then led enterprise growth at Pickrr Technologies, contributing to its $200M acquisition by Shiprocket. A builder at heart, Nipun loves numbers, stories and simplifying complex processes.

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Private Limited Company Tax Rate: Latest PVT LTD Tax Rate Explained

Private Limited Company Tax Rate: Latest PVT LTD Tax Rate Explained

Private limited companies in India are subject to various taxes, with the primary one being the corporate income tax. Understanding the tax rates and compliances is crucial for entrepreneurs and business owners to manage their finances effectively. In this article, we will delve into the intricacies of the private limited company tax rate, along with other key aspects of taxation for these entities.

Table of Contents

Budget 2024 Latest Update on Corporate Tax Rate

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has proposed a reduction in the corporate tax rate for foreign companies, bringing it down from 40% to 35% in the 2024 budget.

Subdivisions of Direct Taxes

Direct taxes in India are categorized as follows:

  1. Personal Income Tax
    • Paid by individual taxpayers based on their income.
    • Taxed according to predefined slabs at different rates.
  2. Corporate Income Tax (CIT)
    • Paid by domestic and foreign companies on their income earned in India.
    • The CIT is levied at rates specified by the Income Tax Act, subject to annual revisions in the Union Budget.

What is Pvt. Ltd. Tax Rate?

The Pvt. Ltd. tax rate refers to the corporate income tax rate applicable to private limited companies in India. Under the Income Tax Act, 1961, domestic companies are generally taxed at 30% on their total taxable income, with variations based on turnover and certain conditions.

For companies with a turnover of less than ₹400 crore, the tax rates are as follows:

  • Turnover up to ₹1 crore: Taxed at 25%.
  • Turnover between ₹1 crore and ₹10 crore: Taxed at 25% on profits exceeding ₹25 lakh, plus an additional ₹25 lakh.
  • Turnover above ₹10 crore: Taxed at 30%.

A 4% Health and Education Cess is levied on the total tax payable.

Companies may also opt for a reduced tax rate of 22% under Section 115BAA, provided they forgo certain exemptions and deductions. This option also includes the surcharge and 4% cess.

Additionally, new manufacturing companies incorporated after October 1, 2019, can avail a 15% tax rate (plus surcharge and cess) under Section 115BAB, subject to specific conditions.

Corporate Income Tax Rate for AY 2022-23

The Corporate Income Tax Rate for the Assessment Year 2022-23 varies based on the company's turnover and the applicability of surcharge and cess. Here's a table summarising the effective tax rates:

For Companies with Turnover Above ₹400 Crore

Income Slab Tax Rate
Up to ₹1 Crore 30%
Above ₹1 Crore but up to ₹10 Crore ₹3,00,000 + 30%
Above ₹10 Crore ₹3,00,00,000 + 30%

For Companies with Turnover Below ₹400 Crore

Net Income Slab (Gross Taxable Income – Deductions) Tax Rate Rebate u/s 87A (FY 2021-22)
Up to ₹1 Crore 25% Nil
Above ₹1 Crore but up to ₹10 Crore ₹25,00,000 + 25% Nil
Above ₹10 Crore ₹2,50,00,000 + 25% Nil

Key Budget 2022 Updates

1. No Changes in Tax Rates: The corporate tax structure remained unchanged.

2. Updated Surcharge Cap for Cooperatives: Surcharge capped at 7% for cooperatives with income between ₹1 crore and ₹10 crore.

3. Set-Off for Losses in Case of Start-ups: Extended incorporation date for start-ups to claim tax holiday under Section 80-IAC to 31 March 2023.

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Income Tax Rate for Domestic Manufacturing Companies for AY 2022-23

New manufacturing companies incorporated in India on or after October 1, 2019, and commencing production before March 31, 2023, can avail a concessional tax rate for private limited companies of 15% under Section 115BAB. However, this is subject to certain conditions, such as:

  • The company should be engaged in the business of manufacture or production of any article or thing
  • It should not be formed by splitting up or reconstruction of an existing business
  • It should not use any plant or machinery previously used in India (with certain exceptions)
  • The option to avail Section 115BAB must be exercised in the first year of operation

The applicable tax rates for domestic manufacturing companies for the assessment year 2022–23 are outlined below:

Category Conditions Tax Rate Surcharge Health and Education Cess
Certain Domestic Manufacturing Companies Opted for Section 115BA (effective from AY 2017-18) 25% Not Applicable Not Applicable
All Existing Domestic Companies Opted for Section 115BAA, regardless of incorporation date or activity type 22% 10% of taxable income if net income exceeds ₹1 crore 4% of Income Tax plus Surcharge
New Manufacturing Domestic Companies Opted for Section 115BAB 15% 10% of taxable income if net income exceeds ₹1 crore 4% of Income Tax plus Surcharge

Education Cess for Companies

Private limited companies are required to pay an education cess at the rate of 4% on the total income tax, including the applicable surcharge. Below is a detailed explanation of the corporate income tax rates for FY 2021–22 or AY 2022–23:

For companies with a turnover of up to ₹400 crore:

  • Income up to ₹1 crore is taxed at 25%.
  • Income exceeding ₹1 crore but up to ₹10 crore is taxed at 25% plus ₹25,00,000. A 7% surcharge applies.
  • Income above ₹10 crore is taxed at 25% plus ₹2,50,00,000, with a 12% surcharge.

For companies with a turnover exceeding ₹400 crore:

  • Income up to ₹1 crore is taxed at 30%.
  • Income exceeding ₹1 crore but up to ₹10 crore is taxed at 30% plus ₹3,00,000. A 7% surcharge applies.
  • Income above ₹10 crore is taxed at 30% plus ₹3,00,00,000, with a 12% surcharge.

The education cess of 4% is uniformly applicable to the total tax payable, including any surcharge, regardless of turnover.

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Income Tax Rate for Foreign Company

Foreign companies, i.e., those incorporated outside India but earning income from Indian sources, are taxed at a basic rate of 40% (plus applicable surcharge and cess). The surcharge is levied at 2% on income between ₹1 crore to ₹10 crores and 5% on income exceeding ₹10 crores.

It is important to note that foreign companies can avail beneficial provisions under the Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA) between India and their country of residence to minimize their tax liability.

Minimum Alternate Tax for Company

The Minimum Alternate Tax (MAT) provisions apply to companies whose tax payable under the normal provisions of the Income Tax Act is less than 15% of their book profits. In such cases, MAT is levied at 15% (plus applicable surcharge and cess) of the book profits.

However, MAT is not applicable to companies opting for the concessional tax regimes under Section 115BAA and Section 115BAB. Further, the credit for MAT paid is allowed to be carried forward for 15 years to be set off against future tax liabilities.

H2 - How to Calculate Total Income for a Company?

To arrive at the taxable income for a private limited company, the following steps are involved:

Steps Particulars
Step 1 Compute the net profit as per the profit and loss account
Step 2 Add income tax paid or provided
Step 3 Add depreciation charged in the books of accounts
Step 4 Add disallowed expenditures or expenses
Step 5 Subtract depreciation allowable under the Income Tax Act
Step 6 Subtract income exempt under the Income Tax Act
Step 7 Subtract deductions allowable under Chapter VI-A
Step 8 The result is the total taxable income

The Corporate Income Tax Rate is then applied to this taxable income to determine the tax liability of the private limited company.

Returns Applicable for Domestic Company for AY 2022-23

Private limited companies are required to file their income tax returns annually. For the assessment year 2022-23, the following returns are applicable:

1. ITR-6: This return is applicable for companies other than those claiming exemption under Section 11 (income from property held for charitable or religious purposes).

2. ITR-7: This return is applicable for companies claiming exemption under Section 11.

The due date for filing the return is 31st October of the assessment year. However, for companies required to furnish a report in Form No. 3CEB under Section 92E (relating to international transactions), the due date is 30th November of the assessment year. Companies must also ensure timely compliance with advance tax payments, TDS/TCS obligations, and tax audit requirements (if applicable) to avoid penal consequences.

Domestic Company Tax Slab for AY 2024-25

For the Assessment Year (AY) 2024–25, the income tax rates for domestic companies depend on their turnover or gross receipts during the financial year (FY) 2020–21, as well as the tax provisions they choose to apply under specific sections of the Income Tax Act. The applicable rates are as follows:

  • If the total turnover or gross receipts during FY 2020–21 do not exceed ₹400 crores:
    • Tax rate: 25%
  • If the company opts for Section 115BA:
    • Tax rate: 25%
  • If the company opts for Section 115BAA:
    • Tax rate: 22%
  • If the company opts for Section 115BAB:
    • Tax rate: 15%
  • For any other domestic company:
    • Tax rate: 30%

These rates are exclusive of surcharge and cess, which will be applied additionally based on the applicable income slabs.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How much tax does a private limited company pay?

The tax liability of a private limited company depends on various factors such as its residential status, income sources, turnover, etc. Domestic companies are taxed at a basic rate of 30% (with concessional rates of 25%, 22%, or 15% available subject to conditions) plus applicable surcharge and cess. Foreign companies are taxed at 40% (plus surcharge and cess) on their India-sourced income.

How can I avoid tax in a PVT Ltd company?

While tax planning is permissible, tax avoidance or evasion is illegal. Private limited companies can legitimately minimise their tax outgo by availing deductions, exemptions, and incentives provided under the Income Tax Act. For instance, companies can claim expenditures incurred wholly for business purposes, deductions for hiring new employees (Section 80JJAA), or for undertaking in-house R&D (Section 35(2AB)). Startups can avail a 100% tax holiday for three consecutive years out of their first ten years of operation.

What is 25% tax on a company?

Domestic companies with an annual turnover of up to ₹400 crores in the financial year 2021-22 are eligible for a concessional corporate tax rate of 25% (plus applicable surcharge and cess). This reduced rate aims to provide relief to smaller companies and promote their growth.

What are the tax benefits of Pvt Ltd?

Private limited companies can avail of several tax benefits under the Income Tax Act:

• Expenditure incurred wholly for business purposes is tax-deductible

• Deductions available for hiring new employees (Section 80JJAA), inter-corporate dividends (Section 80M), in-house R&D (Section 35(2AB)), etc.

• 100% profit-linked deductions for specified businesses like startups, affordable housing, agricultural extension, etc.

• Carry forward of business losses for eight years and unabsorbed depreciation indefinitely

• Deductions for CSR expenditure incurred on eligible activities

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