The Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) has extended the last date of filing forms BEN-2 and BEN-1.

The MCA also relaxed the additional fees under the Companies Act 2013 for filing these forms.

In a Circular issued by MCA on January 1 stated that the time limit for filing e-form No.BEN-2 is extended up to 31.03.2020 without payment of additional fee and thereafter fee and additional fee shall be payable.

"Consequent to such extension of the date of filing e-form No. BEN-2, the date of filing of Form No.BEN-1 may be construed accordingly", the statement added.

Form BEN-1 is a declaration by the beneficial owner who holds or acquires significant beneficial ownership in shares [Pursuant to section 90(1) of the Companies Act, 2013] and rule 2A and rule 3. Many readers requested its actual and understandable copy.

Form BEN-2 is the declaration that a company is required to file with the registrar under section 90 of the Companies Act, 2013. This declaration is with respect to the Significant Beneficial owners of the company disclosing their interest in the company by way of shareholding or voting rights.