Compulsory closure of a Defunct LLP through Strike Off method-
The Registrar of LLPs has the power to bring about the closure of any LLP. The former can strike off a defunct LLP: if it has not carried out any business for a period of 2 years and he has enough reason to do so.
Process of closure through Compulsory Strike Off method
- The Registrar will notify the members of the LLP of the same.
- They will be given the opportunity to state their side of the argument.
- If the LLP fails to get back to the Registrar within the stipulated time the process will be carried on.
- He shall then publish the notice of the LLP's closure on its website for a period of one month.
- Receiving no objections, the name will be struck off.
- A notice will be published in the Official Gazette regarding the same and the LLP shall stand dissolved from the date of the notice.
Voluntary winding up
When the members of an LLP want to bring about its closure, it is known as voluntary winding up.
To initiate the closure through this method:
- The LLP needs to pass a resolution. At least three fourths of the total partners must consent to it.
- A replica of the resolution passes shall be filed with the Registrar. It must be done through Form 1 within 30 days of the resolution’s passing.
- It should also file Form 2 which states that they do not have any debts or the debts that they do have will be made good within one year from the date of the passing of the resolution.
- Within 14 days of the resolution’s passing, the LLP must advertise in a newspaper the details of its closing.
- It should then appoint a liquidator for the purpose of liquidation of the assets and settlement of the liabilities.
Note: the creditors have the option to appoint a liquidator. If there isn't any liquidator appointed by both the LLP and the creditors then the Tribunal shall appoint a liquidator.
- Another resolution should be passed which approves the report filed by the liquidator.
- The latter shall file this report through Form 9.
- The partners and the creditors of the LLP will then approve to closure.
Compulsory Winding up
The Tribunal or the Registrar can initiate the closure of an LLP. Above in the article, we discussed how the Registrar initiates the closure of a defunct LLP through Strike Off method. Here, we discuss the grounds on which the Registrar or the Tribunal closes a functioning LLP. Note that the LLP is not struck off rather it is wound up and liquidated. This is different from Strike Off method as it is much simpler.
Grounds of Compulsory LLP Winding up-
- If the LLP decides to be wound up by the Tribunal
- Has only one member for more than 6 months
- Inability to pay debts
- If it acted against the State's or the Nation's interests
- Defaulted in filing the Statement of
- In case the Tribunal sees it fit to wind up the LLP
The closure of business is the last resort. Though the closure of LLP is simpler than the closure of companies, only after considering every alternative should the members initiate the process to close LLP. If the members are willing to cease operations for a while or take a hiatus, it is better to obtain defunct status than file for closure. However, if the decision is certain then the members can avail the services of Chheda & Associates.
We help streamline the process of closure for our users. Reach out to us for any help on info@chheda.net.in
Disclaimer:- The materials provided herein are solely for information purposes and shall not be treated as solicitation in any manner and for any other purpose whatsoever. It shall not be used as legal opinion and not to be used for rendering any professional advice. The material s written on the basis of the provision applicable as on date of writing of this article.