# Name of an LLP
## Section 15 — Name Requirements
### (1) Suffix
Every LLP must add the suffix 'LLP' or 'Limited Liability Partnership' to its name.
> Example: 'ABC LLP' or 'ABC Limited Liability Partnership'.
### (2) Prohibited Names
No LLP shall be registered with a name which, in the opinion of the CG, is:
- Undesirable, or
- Identical or closely resembles the name of an existing LLP, company, or registered trademark.
> Authorial note: Section 15 prohibits a new LLP from using a name identical to an existing LLP but is silent on names identical to an existing company — a recognised lacuna that contrasts with Section 4 of the Companies Act.
## Section 16 — Reservation of Name
### (1) Application
A person may apply to the RoC (in prescribed manner + fee) to reserve:
- The name of a proposed LLP, OR
- The name to which an existing LLP proposes to change its name.
### (2) Reservation Period
On being satisfied that the name is not identical/undesirable, the RoC reserves the name for 3 months from the date of intimation.
> Contrast with Companies Act: Under Section 4 of the Companies Act, name reservation is only 20/60 days.
## Section 17 — Rectification of Name
### (1) When CG may direct change
Notwithstanding Sections 15 and 16, if an LLP is inadvertently registered (on first registration or change) with a name identical or too similar to:
- Any other LLP, OR
- A registered trademark under the Trade Marks Act, 1999
Then the CG, on application by the affected party (other LLP, trademark proprietor, or company), may direct the LLP to change its name within 3 months.
> Note: The proprietor's application must be made within 3 years of incorporation or change of name.
### (2) Filing the change
After changing the name, the LLP must notify the RoC within 15 days; the RoC then makes consequential changes in the Certificate of Incorporation within 30 days.
### (3) Default by LLP
If the LLP fails to comply, the CG shall allot a new name, and the RoC enters the new name in the register and issues a fresh Certificate of Incorporation.
> The LLP may later voluntarily change the allotted name.
> Note: Unlike Section 16 of the Companies Act, the CG cannot act suo motu under Section 17 — an application is required.