INC-9 is a declaration form required during the incorporation of a company in India. It is filed with the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) as part of the SPICe+ (Simplified Proforma for Incorporating Company Electronically) process. The form serves as an affidavit by the first subscribers to the Memorandum of Association (MOA) and the first directors of the company. It confirms that they have not been convicted of any offense related to the promotion, formation, or management of a company. It also declares that they have not been found guilty of fraud or misfeasance under the Companies Act. The form ensures that the individuals involved in the company’s incorporation meet legal and ethical standards. The declaration is a mandatory requirement for private limited, public limited, and one-person companies. It is required to be filed electronically when the number of subscribers is more than 20. If the number of subscribers is less than 20, a physical affidavit on stamp paper is required. The document must be signed by all first subscribers and directors of the company. In the case of an e-filing, a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) of the subscribers and directors is necessary. It is filed along with the other incorporation documents such as INC-32 (SPICe+), INC-33 (e-MOA), and INC-34 (e-AOA). The form prevents individuals with fraudulent intentions from becoming part of a newly incorporated company. It helps in maintaining corporate integrity and transparency in company formation. The affidavit ensures compliance with the Companies Act, 2013. Any false declaration in INC-9 can lead to penalties and legal consequences. The form is verified by a Chartered Accountant, Company Secretary, or Cost Accountant in practice. It is an essential part of the government’s initiative to streamline business registrations. The digital filing of INC-9 has simplified the incorporation process, reducing paperwork and delays. The declaration protects investors and stakeholders by ensuring only credible individuals are involved in a company. It establishes accountability among the initial subscribers and directors of the company. The affidavit format may differ depending on the type of company being registered. Filing INC-9 incorrectly can result in the rejection of the incorporation application. It plays a crucial role in preventing fraudulent business activities. The document also confirms that the subscribers have not violated any tax or financial regulations. The form must be submitted before the company is granted a Certificate of Incorporation. Proper compliance with INC-9 helps in building trust among regulatory authorities. It ensures that only individuals with a clean legal record are allowed to start a company.