Closure questions, answered.

If the LLP has been inactive for at least a year, has no open bank accounts, and has no outstanding creditors, the simplest route is a strike-off application on Form 24 — a defined process with an indemnity bond, affidavit, and a NIL statement of accounts certified by a CA.

Its compliance obligations don't go away on their own — Form 8 and Form 11 late fees keep accruing indefinitely, since there's no automatic time limit after which an unfiled LLP is considered closed. The Registrar can eventually strike off a defunct LLP on its own initiative, but that doesn't retroactively clear penalties already accrued, and partners can still be pursued for outstanding dues. Filing for a formal strike-off (Form 24) once eligible is the cleaner option.

Form 24 is an application for striking off an LLP. The current instruction kit checks cessation of business, accounts and other requirements. It is an application, not an immediate cancellation certificate.

Do not assume so. The Form 24 kit requires the relevant cessation period and other eligibility conditions. Review the LLP’s history and pending obligations before filing.

No. Closing a bank account is different from legal closure of the entity. Check the MCA process and status, and deal with tax and other obligations separately.

Review assets, liabilities, bank balances, creditors, tax matters, partner consent, accounts and filing history. Resolve the requirements for the proposed closure route before making declarations.

No. They are different routes with different conditions and consequences. The appropriate route depends on the LLP’s business history, debts and circumstances.