LLP Form 3 Filing: Steps to File the LLP Agreement Online

Entrepreneurs often choose the LLP registration structure for its balance of flexibility and protection. What is less understood is that compliance does not end with incorporation. The way an LLP actually operates is governed by its agreement. This document sets out partner roles, decision-making authority, and profit-sharing terms. Filing the essential details of the agreement through LLP Form 3 gives these terms legal recognition. When this filing is delayed, many LLPs face issues early on, as the agreement remains legally ineffective without Form 3.

Form 3 for LLP records the agreement between partners and places it on official record with the Ministry of Corporate Affairs within 30 days of incorporation. It defines who does what, who brings in how much, and how decisions and profits are shared. Miss this filing, and the LLP runs without a legal backbone.

This guide explains what LLP Form 3 is, why it matters, how to file it online, and what happens if you delay.

What is LLP Form 3

LLP Form 3 is a statutory form filed with the Registrar of Companies to register the LLP agreement and any amendments made to it. It captures partner roles, rights, duties, profit-sharing ratios, and capital contributions, giving the LLP agreement legal effect.

The law requires LLP Form 3 to be filed within 30 days of incorporation. Once approved, the agreement becomes part of the LLP’s official record. Any change in the LLP agreement must also be reported through the same form within the prescribed time. Without it, the LLP is treated as operating without defined terms, which invites disputes and penalties.

If you want to understand what an LLP agreement is and what it includes, this guide explains how it defines the legal and operational framework of an LLP: What is LLP Agreement? Contents, Provisions and Concepts

In simple terms, Form 3 of LLP tells the government how your LLP functions today and ensures every change in the agreement is formally recorded.

Why Filing LLP Form 3 is Mandatory

The requirement flows directly from the Limited Liability Partnership Act, 2008. The intent is simple. Every LLP must operate under clear and documented terms.

Filing Form 3 of LLP helps because it:

• Makes the LLP agreement legally enforceable
• Defines partner roles, rights, and responsibilities
• Records capital contribution and profit-sharing ratios
• Sets rules for management and decision-making
• Reduces internal conflicts through written clarity

An LLP without filed details of LLP agreement defaults to standard legal provisions. That often leads to confusion and friction between partners.

Details Required to File Form 3 for LLP

Before you log into the MCA portal, keep the following information ready. Incomplete details are the most common reason for rejection of Form 3 LLP.

LLP Information

• LLP name
• LLP Identification Number (LLPIN)
• Date of incorporation

Partner Details

• Names and addresses of all partners
• Designated Partner Identification Numbers

LLP Agreement

• Executed and signed the LLP agreement
• Clear terms and conditions

Capital Contribution

• Contribution by each partner
• Profit-sharing ratio

Business Activities

• Description of main business operations

Registered Office

• Address as per MCA records

Stamp Duty Proof

• Proof of payment as per state stamp laws

Digital Signatures

• Obtain DSC of designated partners

Accuracy matters here. Even small mismatches between the LLP agreement and the form can delay approval.

Form 3 LLP: Filing at Incorporation vs. Filing Amendments

Form 3 of LLP serves two distinct purposes. Which section you use depends on the stage of your LLP and what you are reporting.

1. Filing the Form 3 to Record Initial LLP Agreement

This is used at the time of incorporation. It includes the nature of business, capital, roles, profit ratios, meeting procedures, and voting rules.

2. Filing Form 3 to Record Amendments to the LLP Agreement

This comes into play when there is a change in LLP agreement. This may include:

• Partner addition or removal
• Change in capital
• New profit-sharing structure
• Change in authority or management powers

Amendments need the date of change, number of changes, and the SRN of earlier filings.

Form 4 is filed to report the addition or removal of partners in an LLP. Whenever there is a change in a partner’s role, designation, or status, this form acts as the formal notice to the MCA. The form formally informs the MCA and keeps official records updated. For filing steps, timelines, and required details, read our detailed guide on Form 4: How to File LLP Form 4: Everything You Need to Know

How to File LLP Form 3 on the MCA Portal

Filing Form 3 for LLP is a simple online process, but it needs careful attention. The process differs slightly for a fresh filing and a resubmission after corrections. Here is a step-by-step view of how to file it correctly.

Filing Process of LLP Form 3 for Newly Registered LLPs

This filing is done at the time of incorporation or when the LLP agreement is executed for the first time.

1. Visit the MCA homepage and log in with valid credentials.
2. Go to MCA Services and select E-Filing.
3. Choose LLP Forms Download.
4. Open Filing of LLP Agreement or Intimation of Change in Agreement (Form 3).
5. Enter the LLP details.
6. Search and select the LLPIN, if required.
7. Fill in the LLP agreement details carefully.
8. Link Form 4 or Form 5, where applicable.
9. Complete the linked forms, if any.
10. Save the form as a draft, if needed.
11. Submit the webform.
12. An SRN is generated on submission.
13. Affix the Digital Signature Certificate.
14. Upload the DSC-signed PDF on the MCA portal.
15. Pay the prescribed government fees.
16. An acknowledgement is generated after successful filing.

Filing Process LLP Form 3 in Case of Any Change in the Agreement

Whenever there is a change in LLP agreement, Form 3 must be filed again to report the update.

1. Log in to the MCA portal.
2. Access LLP Form 3 under Filing of LLP Agreement or Intimation of Change in Agreement.
3. Select the relevant LLPIN.
4. Update the amended LLP agreement details.
5. Mention the effective date of change.
6. Provide the SRN of the earlier Form 3 filing.
7. Link Form 4 or Form 5, if the change involves partners or contributions.
8. Save the form, if required.
9. Submit the webform.
10. Affix the DSC and upload the signed PDF.
11. Pay the applicable fees.
12. An acknowledgement is generated once the filing is complete.

Filing Form 3 on time ensures every LLP agreement change is legally recorded and enforceable.

LLP Form 3 Filing Fees

The government fee depends on the LLP’s total capital contribution.

LLP Capital Contribution	Filing Fee
Up to ₹1 lakh	₹50
₹1 lakh to ₹5 lakh	₹100
₹5 lakh to ₹10 lakh	₹150
₹10 lakh to ₹25 lakh	₹200
₹25 lakh to ₹1 crore	₹400
₹1 crore or more	₹600

These are statutory fees prescribed by the government and payable directly on the MCA portal. Any professional fees are only for assistance with preparation, review, and filing, which helps reduce errors and keeps the compliance process straightforward.

LLP Form 3 Due Date

LLP Form 3 due date follows a strict timeline under LLP compliance rules. Form 3 LLP must be filed within 30 days in two situations:

• After LLP incorporation
• After any change in the LLP agreement

Changes include partner admission or exit, revision in profit-sharing, capital changes, or business activity updates.

Every amendment restarts the 30-day clock.

Penalty for Late Filing of Form 3 LLP

Late filing attracts additional fees that increase with delay. The structure is strict.

• Delay up to 15 days: One times the normal fee
• Longer delays: Penalty rises steadily
• Delay beyond 260 days: Up to 50 times the normal fee

Small LLPs pay lower penalties compared to larger ones, but the financial impact can still be significant. Persistent non-compliance may also raise red flags during future filings.

Timely filing avoids unnecessary expense and scrutiny.

Conclusion

LLP Form 3 is not just another compliance task. It is the legal foundation of your LLP. It records partner roles, capital structure, and profit-sharing in a form recognised by law. Filing it within 30 days of incorporation or amendment helps prevent penalties and ensures smooth operations.

The process is online and structured, but it demands accuracy. Errors or delays can quickly become costly.

If you prefer a hands-off approach, our team at LegalWiz assists with LLP registration, updating LLP agreements, and timely annual filings. We handle the compliance details so you can focus on building the business.