Introduction – Why Do These Two Things Matter for Every Business Owner?

When I talk to new business owners, one question comes to my mind again and again – what is the minimum number of members required to start a public company, and why do we worry so much about income tax ITR filing every year?
In my daily work, I meet clients who want a clear, simple explanation. So here, I am sharing my own experience in simple words, the same way I guide someone who comes to me for registration or compliance support. This is service-type content, written in a normal conversational tone, without any copied material.

What Is the Minimum Number of Members in a Public Company?

If someone plans to start a public company in India, the first basic rule they must know is the minimum number of people required. A minimum no of members in a public company gives you bigger growth opportunities, better credibility, and access to public funding—but it also comes with some rules.

Minimum Members Required

A public company must have at least 7 members.
This is the starting point. Without 7 shareholders, you cannot register a public limited company under the Companies Act, 2013.

Why 7 Members?

From my experience helping clients, this rule makes sense because a public company is not meant for single-owner or small setups. It is created for a larger business vision. Having 7 members shows that multiple people are coming together with a bigger plan.

Minimum Directors Needed

Along with 7 members, a public company must have:

  • Minimum 3 directors

  • One of them must be a resident director in India

Key Characteristics of a Public Company

When I explain this to clients, I keep it simple:

  • Shares can be offered to the public

  • No limit on the maximum number of members

  • Stricter annual compliance

  • Better brand image and trust value

  • Separate legal identity

This is why many businesses choose to register as a public company when they plan long-term expansion.

Documents Needed to Register a Public Company

Clients always ask what documents they should keep ready. Here is the basic list I usually share:

  • PAN and Aadhaar of all members and directors

  • Address proof of all members and directors

  • Passport-size photographs

  • Registered office address proof

  • Utility bill (not older than 2–3 months)

  • NOC from property owner

  • Director Identification Number (DIN)

  • Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)

Proper documentation helps the registration process move faster and avoids delays.

What Is Income Tax ITR Filing and Why Is It Important?

After registration, the next important topic I guide people on is Income Tax ITR Filing. Whether someone is a salaried person, a business owner, a freelancer, or a company, filing ITR every year is necessary.

What Is ITR?

ITR stands for Income Tax Return.
It is a simple statement where you report your:

  • Income

  • Tax paid

  • Deductions claimed

  • Financial details for the year

I always explain that filing ITR is not only about paying tax. It is about maintaining a clean financial record.

Who Should File ITR?

From my experience, these people must file ITR:

  • Anyone who earns taxable income

  • Individuals who want to claim a refund

  • Businesses and companies (mandatory)

  • Individuals applying for loans or visas

  • People with foreign assets or income

Even if your income is not taxable, filing ITR is helpful because it works as proof of financial discipline.

Benefits of Filing ITR on Time

I often tell clients that timely ITR filing brings many advantages:

1. Smooth Financial Proof

Banks always ask for ITR when you apply for:

  • Business loans

  • Personal loans

  • Home loans

  • Credit cards

ITR shows your income stability.

2. Avoid Penalties

Late filing leads to penalties under the Income Tax Act. Filing on time helps you avoid extra charges.

3. Easy Visa Process

Many embassies request ITR copies as proof of your financial health.

4. Claim Tax Refunds

If your TDS was cut extra, you can claim it only through ITR filing.

5. Carry Forward Losses

Businesses can carry forward losses to reduce future tax liability, but only if the ITR is filed on time.

Connection Between Public Company Compliance & ITR Filing

When a public company is registered, compliance becomes a regular responsibility.
A public company must file:

  • Annual Returns

  • Financial Statements

  • Income Tax ITR

A company cannot skip ITR filing. It affects legal standing, creditworthiness, and future business opportunities.

I always remind my clients that successful businesses don’t grow only by registration—they grow by maintaining clean annual compliance.

Conclusion

Whether you plan to register a public company or simply manage your personal or business taxes, understanding these two topics is important.
A public company needs minimum 7 members, and ITR filing is essential for every taxpayer. If you plan everything properly from the beginning, compliance becomes smooth and stress-free.