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Corporate Identification Number (CIN): A Complete Guide

July 21, 2025

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A Corporate Identification Number (CIN) is a unique 21-digit alphanumeric code assigned to companies registered in India by the Registrar of Companies (ROC). This identification number, issued under the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA), plays a crucial role in ensuring transparency and accountability in corporate governance.

In this blog, we will delve into the details of CIN, including its structure, purpose, significance, and the penalties for non-compliance. We’ll also address some commonly asked questions about CIN for better understanding.

What is the Full Form and Meaning of CIN Number?

CIN, which stands for stands for Corporate Identification Number, is a mandatory identifier issued to companies incorporated in India. It applies to the following types of companies:

Private Limited Companies (PLCs)
One Person Companies (OPCs)
State Government Companies
Companies owned by the Government of India
Not-for-Profit Section 8 Companies
Nidhi Companies

Exception:

CIN is not applicable to Limited Liability Partnerships (LLPs). Instead, LLPs are assigned a unique 7-digit LLPIN (Limited Liability Partnership Identification Number) by the ROC.

Importance of CIN

CIN is essential for identifying and tracking company activities from the date of incorporation. Here are its primary uses:

Company Tracking: CIN helps the ROC and MCA monitor all activities related to the company’s operations.
Transparency: It provides key details about the company’s registration and incorporation.
Mandatory Reference: Companies are required to mention CIN on invoices, reports, letterheads, and other official documents.

Example of a CIN

L01631KA2010PTC096843

This unique CIN can be broken down into six segments, each of which provides specific details about the company.

Breaking Down the Structure of CIN

A CIN is a 21-character alphanumeric code divided into six sections:

1. First Character (L/U): Indicates whether the company is listed or unlisted on the Indian stock market.

L: Listed on the Indian stock market.
U: Unlisted on the Indian stock market.

2. Next Five Digits: Represents the industry or economic activity category.

These five digits indicate the nature of the company’s primary business activity, such as manufacturing, finance, or information technology.

3. Next Two Letters: Denotes the state of registration.

Each state in India has a specific code, such as KA for Karnataka, MH for Maharashtra, and DL for Delhi.

4. Next Four Digits: Indicates the year of incorporation.

These digits signify the calendar year in which the company was registered with the ROC.

5. Next Three Letters: Reveals the company classification.

For example:

PTC: Private Limited Company
PLC: Public Limited Company
GOI: Government of India-owned Company
OPC: One Person Company

6. Last Six Digits: Unique registration number issued by the ROC.

This is a sequential number assigned to the company at the time of its registration.

Abbreviations Used in Section 5:

FLC: Financial Lease Company (Public Limited)
FTC: Subsidiary of a Foreign Company (Private Limited)
GOI: Government of India-owned Company
OPC: One Person Company
PLC: Public Limited Company
PTC: Private Limited Company
SGC: State Government Company

Usage of CIN

Companies must mention their CIN on various documents, such as:

Invoices, bills, and receipts
Notices and memos
Letterheads
Annual reports and audits
E-form submissions on the MCA portal
Official company publications

Penalty for Non-Compliance

Failure to include the CIN on mandatory documents can result in fines. The penalty includes:

₹1,000 per day of default, applicable to the company and its responsible officers.
Maximum penalty: INR 1,00,000.

Scenarios Leading to CIN Changes

A company’s CIN may change due to:

Change in Listing Status: Transitioning between listed and unlisted status.
Change in Location: Moving the registered office to a different state.
Change in Industry: Switching to a new sector or category of economic activity.

Final Thoughts

Understanding the Corporate Identification Number is essential for businesses and stakeholders alike. With this guide, we hope you have gained clarity on its structure, significance, and compliance requirements. If you have further queries, feel free to explore the MCA portal or consult with a legal expert.

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FAQs

1. What is the purpose of a CIN?

The CIN serves as a unique identifier for companies registered in India. It helps the ROC and MCA track and monitor company activities, ensuring compliance with regulations and facilitating transparency.

2. Is CIN mandatory for all types of companies?

Yes, CIN is mandatory for all companies incorporated in India, including private limited companies, public limited companies, and Section 8 companies. However, LLPs are assigned an LLPIN instead.

3. Where can I find my company’s CIN?

You can find your company’s CIN on:

The Certificate of Incorporation issued by the ROC.
The MCA’s online company database.

4. What does the first character of CIN signify?

The first character of the CIN indicates the company’s listing status:

L: Listed on the Indian stock market.
U: Unlisted.

5. How is the industry category determined in CIN?

The five-digit numeric code in the CIN corresponds to the industry category assigned by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs. Each industry or economic activity has a unique code.

6. Can a company’s CIN change?

Yes, a company’s CIN can change in scenarios such as relocation of the registered office to a different state, change in listing status, or switching to a new industry category.

7. What documents require the CIN to be mentioned?

CIN must be quoted on:

Invoices, receipts, and bills
Notices and memos
Letterheads
Annual reports
E-forms submitted to MCA

8. What happens if a company fails to mention its CIN?

Failure to include the CIN on required documents can result in penalties of INR 1,000 per day, subject to a maximum fine of INR 1,00,000.

9. How is CIN different from LLPIN?

CIN is assigned to companies registered under the Companies Act, while LLPIN is a 7-digit identifier issued to Limited Liability Partnerships.

10. How can I verify a company’s CIN?

You can verify a company’s CIN on the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) website by searching with the company’s name or registration details.

Corporate Identification Number (CIN): A Complete Guide