Company Annual Returns Guide (2026)

Filing annual returns with CIPC is mandatory for all registered companies in South Africa. Understanding annual return requirements, filing process, deadlines, and fees helps you maintain compliance and avoid penalties. This comprehensive 2026 guide covers everything you need to know about company annual returns.

What Are Annual Returns?

Understanding Annual Returns

Annual Returns:

• Mandatory filing with CIPC
• Confirms company is still active
• Updates company information
• Required every year
• Must be filed on time

Purpose:

• Maintain company register
• Confirm company status
• Update company information
• Ensure compliance
• Track active companies

Filing Requirements

Who Must File

All Registered Companies:

• Private companies (Pty Ltd)
• Public companies (Ltd)
• Personal liability companies (Inc)
• Non-profit companies (NPC)
• All company types must file

Filing Obligation:

• Annual filing requirement
• Cannot be skipped
• Must file even if inactive
• Required for all companies

Filing Deadlines

Important Dates

Annual Return Deadline:

• Filing Period: Within 30 business days of anniversary date
• Anniversary Date: Date company was registered
• Example: Registered 15 March, file by 15 April (30 business days)
• Late Filing: Penalties apply

Penalties for Late Filing:

• R150-R200 per month late
• Accumulates monthly
• Can result in deregistration
• Avoid late filing

Filing Process

Step-by-Step Process

Step 1: Prepare Information

• Company registration number
• Current company information
• Director details
• Shareholder information
• Financial information (if required)

Step 2: Log in to CIPC Portal

• Access CIPC website
• Log in with company credentials
• Navigate to annual returns section
• Select filing year

Step 3: Complete Annual Return Form

• Enter company information
• Update director details
• Update shareholder information
• Verify all information
• Complete all required fields

Step 4: Pay Filing Fee

• Pay annual return fee
• R100-R200 (varies by company type)
• Use online payment
• Keep payment receipt

Step 5: Submit Annual Return

• Review information
• Submit annual return
• Receive confirmation
• Save confirmation

Annual Return Fees

Current Fees (2026)

Filing Fees:

• Private Company: R100-R150
• Public Company: R150-R200
• Non-Profit Company: R100-R150
• Late Filing Penalty: R150-R200 per month

Payment Methods:

• Online payment (recommended)
• Credit/debit cards
• EFT
• Bank deposit

Required Information

Information to Update

Company Information:

• Registered address
• Business activities
• Contact details
• Company status

Director Information:

• Current directors
• Director appointments/resignations
• Director contact details
• Director addresses

Shareholder Information:

• Current shareholders
• Share allocations
• Share transfers
• Shareholder details

Common Issues

Filing Problems

Issue: Missed Deadline

• File as soon as possible
• Pay late filing penalties
• Avoid further delays
• Contact CIPC if needed

Issue: Incorrect Information

• Verify information before filing
• Correct errors promptly
• Resubmit if needed
• Keep accurate records

Issue: Payment Problems

• Check payment method
• Verify sufficient funds
• Try alternative payment
• Keep payment reference

Tips for Filing

Best Practices

1. File Early: File before deadline
2. Keep Records: Maintain accurate company records
3. Set Reminders: Calendar reminders for filing
4. Verify Information: Check all information accuracy
5. Pay Promptly: Pay fees on time
6. Follow Up: Confirm filing received

Frequently Asked Questions

When do I need to file annual returns?

File annual returns within 30 business days of your company's registration anniversary date each year. The anniversary date is the date your company was registered.

How much does it cost to file annual returns?

Annual return filing fees range from R100-R200 depending on company type: private companies (R100-R150), public companies (R150-R200).

What happens if I don't file annual returns?

Failure to file annual returns results in penalties (R150-R200 per month), and may lead to company deregistration. File promptly to avoid penalties.

Can I file annual returns online?

Yes, CIPC offers online annual return filing through their website. Online filing is faster, more convenient, and recommended.

What information do I need to file?

Required information includes: company registration number, current registered address, director details, shareholder information, and updated company information.

Conclusion

Filing company annual returns is mandatory within 30 business days of registration anniversary date. File online through CIPC portal, update company information, pay filing fee (R100-R200), and receive confirmation. File early, keep accurate records, set reminders, and pay fees promptly to avoid penalties. Understanding annual return requirements helps you maintain CIPC compliance and keep your company in good standing.