31 October 2012
My client is partnership firm. They have formed another company and now from 1.4.2013, we propose to transfer all te firm's business into company name.
At present, the firm is enjoying credit limits of Rs.6.00 Crores from bank.
So, my question is ,on completion of transfer formalities, whether bank is required to execute fresh documents or not.
20 July 2024
When a partnership firm transfers its business to a newly formed private limited company, especially when there are existing credit limits with banks involved, certain considerations and actions need to be taken:
### Transfer of Business from Partnership Firm to Pvt Ltd Company
1. **Documentation:** - **Partnership Firm:** Ensure all assets, liabilities, contracts, and agreements are transferred to the newly formed private limited company. - **Private Limited Company:** Amend the Memorandum of Association (MOA) and Articles of Association (AOA) to reflect the business transferred from the partnership firm.
2. **Credit Limits with Bank:** - **Existing Credit Facilities:** Notify the bank about the transfer of business from the partnership firm to the private limited company. - **Fresh Documentation:** Typically, banks may require fresh documentation when there is a significant change in the ownership or structure of the borrower. This ensures that the credit facilities are properly assigned to the new entity and that the bank's interests are protected.
3. **Bank's Requirements:** - **Bank's Discretion:** Each bank may have its own policies regarding the transfer of credit limits. Some banks may require: - **Fresh Documentation:** This includes new loan agreements, hypothecation agreements, and other security documents. - **Board Resolution:** A board resolution from the private limited company authorizing the transfer and acknowledging the existing credit facilities. - **Letter of Continuance:** A letter from the bank acknowledging the continuation of credit limits with the new entity.
4. **Legal Compliance:** - **Compliance Check:** Ensure compliance with all legal and regulatory requirements related to the transfer of business and credit facilities. - **ROC Filing:** File necessary forms with the Registrar of Companies (ROC) regarding the transfer of business from the partnership firm to the private limited company.
### Practical Steps:
- **Consultation:** It's advisable to consult with the bank's relationship manager or a financial advisor to understand the specific requirements of the bank. - **Documentation Preparation:** Prepare all necessary documents, including board resolutions, partnership firm dissolution documents, and agreements transferring assets and liabilities. - **Timely Action:** Initiate the process well in advance to ensure a smooth transition and to avoid any disruption in credit facilities.
### Conclusion:
On completion of the transfer formalities from the partnership firm to the private limited company, it is likely that the bank will require fresh documentation to reflect the change in borrower status. This is important to safeguard the interests of all parties involved and to ensure continuity of credit facilities without interruptions. Therefore, it is recommended to communicate with the bank promptly and prepare all necessary documents to facilitate the smooth transition of credit limits to the new entity.