Understanding Annual Returns
Every South African company and Close Corporation must file an annual return with CIPC - a mandatory compliance requirement separate from SARS tax returns. This statutory submission confirms your business is active and updates key information annually.
Affordable Annual Return Filing
Starting from just R885
For companies with annual turnover less than R1 million per year (when UBO/beneficial ownership is up to date). Select your turnover bracket above for exact pricing.
How to File Your Annual Return
Filing is simple with our expert service:
- Select your turnover bracket above based on annual revenue
- Complete our online form with company details
- We handle the CIPC submission and ensure compliance
- Receive confirmation once successfully filed
Who Must Submit an Annual Return?
- All registered Companies and Close Corporations in South Africa - regardless of size, type, or trading status.
- Even dormant or non-trading entities must file to prevent deregistration and remain on the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission register.
When is the Annual Return Due?
Due in your company's anniversary month (the month it was incorporated).
- Companies: within 30 business days from the incorporation anniversary date.
- Close Corporations: within 60 business days from the incorporation anniversary date.
Example: Incorporated on 15 May → due between 15 May and end of June each year.
Why is the Annual Return Submission Important?
- Regulatory Compliance: Required under the Companies Act 71 of 2008.
- Keeps Your Company Active: Prevents involuntary deregistration at CIPC.
- Information Update: Keeps turnover and beneficial ownership data current for oversight.
What Happens if You Fail to Submit on Time?
- Penalties & Non-Compliance: The CIPC will levy penalties and flag the entity.
- Deregistration Process: Formal notices may lead to deregistration if ignored.
- Final Deregistration: Company ceases to exist as a legal entity.
- Loss of Name: Name becomes available to the public.
- Loss of Assets/Banking: Cannot trade, contract, or operate bank accounts.
- Director Risk: Directors may face disqualification in other companies.
Annual Returns for All South African Provinces
We assist companies nationwide - from Cape Town to Johannesburg, Durban to Pretoria. Whether you're in Gauteng, Western Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, or any other province, our CIPC filing service ensures compliance.
Related CIPC Services
Along with annual returns, we also provide Beneficial Ownership (UBO) submissions, share certificates, and company registrations.