Corporate Identification Number (CIN): Meaning, Importance, Usage and Format

CIN is a unique 21-digit alphanumeric code used to identify, track, and verify registered companies in India.
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2 min read
22 July 2025

In the complex landscape of business regulations and legal requirements, a corporate identification number (CIN) plays a vital role. This unique alphanumeric code is an integral part of your business identity and is a mandatory registration for companies in India. In this article, we will delve into the intricacies of CIN, its significance, and how it ties into the broader context of business and tax compliance. Check your pre-approved business loan offer to explore funding solutions that complement your legal and regulatory setup.

What is a Corporate Identification Number (CIN)?

Corporate Identification Number (CIN) is a unique identification code assigned by the Registrar of Companies (RoC) to all companies registered in India. It is a 21-digit alphanumeric code issued at the time of incorporation and serves as an official reference for all company-related filings and compliance with the Ministry of Corporate Affairs.

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The CIN number full form is Corporate Identification Number, which acts as a unique company number used for all legal and regulatory compliance.

The CIN is allotted to various types of registered entities, including:

  • Private Limited Company

  • One Person Company

  • Companies fully or partially owned by the Central Government

  • State Government-owned companies

  • Section 8 companies (Not-for-Profit)

  • Nidhi companies and other registered corporate entities

It’s important to note that Limited Liability Partnerships (LLPs) do not receive a CIN. Instead, they are issued an LLPIN, or Limited Liability Partnership Identification Number, which is a unique 7-digit identifier specific to LLPs.

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Importance of Corporate Identification Number (CIN)

The CIN number of a company is not merely a legal formality. It serves several crucial functions in the world of business:

  • Legal identification: A CIN is the legal identity of a company in India. All companies must obtain a CIN during their business registration process. Without it, a company cannot conduct business or enter into legally binding contracts. For companies aiming to streamline their operations post-incorporation, many choose to apply for business loan solutions that provide quick access to capital, ensuring smoother financial transitions.

  • Regulatory compliance: CIN is instrumental in ensuring that companies adhere to the legal framework governing businesses in India. It facilitates tracking and verification of a company's activities, making it an indispensable tool for regulatory authorities.

  • Transparent business environment: CIN fosters transparency in the business environment. It enables stakeholders, including shareholders, creditors, and the government, to access and verify the information related to a company. This transparency promotes accountability and trust.

  • Prevents fraud and misrepresentation: CIN helps in preventing fraud and misrepresentation. It ensures that companies operate under their designated legal structure and business activities, deterring fraudulent activities.

  • Access to corporate data: A CIN is a key that unlocks a wealth of corporate data. It allows easy access to a company's official documents, financial statements, and other important information through the MCA portal. This access is crucial for investors, competitors, and regulatory bodies.

What are the different sections of a CIN?

The Corporate Identification Number (CIN) is a 21-character alphanumeric code assigned to companies registered in India. Each part of this code provides specific details about the company. The CIN is divided into six distinct sections, each representing important information related to the company's registration and identity:

  • Section 1 – Listing Status: The first character of the CIN is either ‘L’ or ‘U’. ‘L’ denotes that the company is listed on a stock exchange, while ‘U’ signifies an unlisted company.

  • Section 2 – Industry Code: The next five digits indicate the industry classification of the company. This code is based on the nature of the company’s primary economic activity, as defined by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA).

  • Section 3 – State Code: Following that are two alphabets that denote the state or union territory where the company is registered. For example:

    • DL = Delhi

    • MH = Maharashtra

    • KA = Karnataka

    • TN = Tamil Nadu

  • Section 4 – Year of Incorporation: The next four digits represent the year in which the company was incorporated.

  • Section 5 – Company Type: The next three alphabets specify the classification or type of the company, such as whether it is private, public, not-for-profit, or government-owned. Common codes include:

    • PTC: Private Limited Company

    • PLC: Public Limited Company

    • OPC: One Person Company

    • NPL: Not-for-Profit Company (Section 8)

    • FTC: Subsidiary of a Foreign Company

    • GOI: Government of India-owned Company

    • SGC: State Government-owned Company

    • FLC: Financial Lease Company (Public)

    • GAP: General Association (Public)

    • GAT: General Association (Private)

    • o ULL: Public Company with Unlimited Liability

    • ULT: Private Company with Unlimited Liability

  • Section 6 – Registration Number: The last six digits of the CIN represent the unique company number or registration number assigned by the Registrar of Companies (RoC). This number helps uniquely identify the business within the state where it is registered.

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Abbreviations in Corporate Identification Number (CIN)

CIN (Corporate Identity Number) includes various codes that indicate a company’s ownership type and structure. Section-5 of the CIN reflects these abbreviations, each representing a different category of company:

  • PLC: Public Limited Company

  • PTC: Private Limited Company

  • OPC: One Person Company

  • NPL: Not-for-Profit Company registered under Section 8

  • FTC: Private Limited Company that is a subsidiary of a foreign company

  • FLC: Public Limited Company functioning as a Financial Lease Company

  • GAP: General Association registered as a Public entity

  • GAT: General Association registered as a Private entity

  • GOI: Company owned by the Government of India

  • SGC: Company owned by a State Government

  • ULL: Public Company with Unlimited Liability

  • ULT: Private Company with Unlimited Liability

How to track the CIN of your company

The CIN number of a company can be easily retrieved from the official website of the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) by selecting the "Find CIN" option under the MCA Services section. You can directly access the tool at https://mca.gov.in/mcafoportal/findCIN.do.

To find the CIN, you need to choose whether the entity is a company or a limited liability partnership (LLP), and then search using one of the following details:

  • Registration number

  • Current name of the company or LLP

  • Inactive CIN

  • Previous name of the company or LLP

Once the relevant information is filled in, enter the captcha code and click on ‘Search’ to view the CIN number.

CIN requirement for GST registration

Companies incorporated in India must have a valid Corporate Identification Number (CIN) to apply for GST registration. CIN verifies a company’s legal existence, making it a basic requirement for complying with tax regulations under GST.

Usage of Corporate Incorporation Number

Businesses registered in India must ensure their CIN is clearly mentioned across a variety of official and statutory documents. These include:

  • Payment documents such as receipts, invoices, and bills

  • Company communications, including memos and notices

  • All printed or digital letterheads

  • Financial documents such as audit reports and annual filings

  • Government submissions made through the MCA portal

  • Any formal or regulatory publications issued by the company

Required usage of CIN in corporate documentation

A company’s CIN must be included in various key documents and communications, such as:

  • Receipts and invoices

  • Official letterheads and notices

  • Annual reports and financial statements

  • All e-forms submitted on the Ministry of Corporate Affairs portal

  • Emails sent to external parties

  • Publications including journals, books, periodicals, and financial results

  • Bill heads and business correspondence such as letters and memos

Penalty for non-compliance of mentioning CIN

If a company fails to comply with the requirement of displaying its CIN, a penalty of Rs. 1,000 per day is levied on the defaulting company and each responsible officer for the duration of the non-compliance. However, the total penalty is capped at a maximum of Rs. 1,00,000.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the corporate identification number (CIN) is a vital component of your business identity. It offers transparency, ensures regulatory compliance, and distinguishes your company in the crowded business landscape of India. While CIN and GST are distinct, they both play essential roles in the legal and financial aspects of your business. Understanding the importance of your CIN number is key to maintaining the integrity of your company and navigating the complex regulatory environment of the business world in India.

Additional Read: What is GSTR
Additional Read: What is GSTIN

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Frequently asked questions

How do I find my CIN number?

Your CIN number can be found on various documents, including the certificate of incorporation issued by the registrar of companies, your Memorandum of association (MOA), and articles of association (AOA). Additionally, you can access your CIN number online through the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) portal.

Are CIN and GST the same?

No, CIN and GST are not the same. CIN is your corporate identification number, which identifies your company, while GST is your Goods and Services Tax number, used for taxation purposes.

How do I change my CIN?

Your CIN is a unique identifier assigned during the incorporation of your company. It cannot be changed. If you need to make any changes or updates to your company's details, you will need to file the necessary forms with the registrar of companies.

Who is eligible for CIN number?

Companies incorporated in India, including public and private limited companies, are eligible for CIN (Corporate Identification Number). Sole proprietorships and partnership firms do not require CIN.

What is the purpose of CIN number?

The Corporate Identification Number (CIN) serves as a unique identifier for registered companies. It helps in identifying and differentiating various entities, aiding in transparency, legal compliance, and simplifying communication between companies and regulatory authorities.

Who provides the CIN number?

The CIN number is provided by the registrar of companies (ROC), which is a government body that registers and regulates companies in India. The CIN number is required for various purposes such as filing annual returns, tax payments, and legal compliance.

Who needs a CIN number?

A CIN (Corporate Identification Number) is a unique digit code that is assigned to companies or businesses incorporated in India. Every company registered with the Ministry of Corporate Affairs in India is required to have a CIN number, which is used for legal and official purposes, such as filing tax returns and submitting statutory documents.

How do I get a new CIN number?

To get a new CIN (Corporate Identification Number) number, you need to incorporate your business or company with the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) in India. This involves filing the appropriate forms and documents, paying the necessary fees, and complying with all the legal and regulatory requirements. The MCA will then assign a unique CIN number to your business.

How do I find a company name by CIN?

To find a company name by CIN (Corporate Identification Number), you can visit the website of the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) in India. On the MCA portal, click on the 'Find CIN/LLPIN' option, enter the CIN number, and click on the search button. The search results will display the name of the company associated with the given CIN number.

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