Understand CIPC annual returns, why they are important, what happens if they are not filed and how to keep your company in good standing.
What are CIPC annual returns?
CIPC annual returns are yearly company filings that confirm the company is still active and should remain on the CIPC register.
Annual returns are not the same as SARS tax returns. CIPC annual returns relate to the company registration record, while SARS returns relate to tax reporting.
Why annual returns are important
If annual returns are not filed, the company may become non-compliant and can eventually face deregistration risk. This can create problems with bank accounts, tenders, contracts and SARS matters.
Many clients only discover annual returns are outstanding when applying for a tender, opening a bank account, updating company details or requesting company documents.
What information is needed?
You normally need the company registration number, company name, annual turnover information, director details and access to the CIPC profile or customer code.
It is also important to review beneficial ownership requirements, director details and company records so that the compliance file is up to date.
What happens if returns are overdue?
Overdue annual returns should be filed as soon as possible. Where a company has been deregistered or is in the deregistration process, additional steps may be needed to restore the company.
The sooner the outstanding period is identified, the easier it is to prepare a catch-up plan.
How Dash Consulting can help
Dash Consulting assists with CIPC annual returns, beneficial ownership filings, company reinstatement, company amendments, share certificates and company compliance checks.
We help business owners keep their company records organised and ready for SARS, tenders and banking.
Frequently asked questions
Are CIPC annual returns the same as SARS tax returns?
No. CIPC annual returns keep the company registration record active, while SARS returns report tax information.
Can a company be deregistered for not filing annual returns?
Yes, failure to maintain annual returns can create deregistration risk.
Can Dash Consulting help with old outstanding annual returns?
Yes. We can review the outstanding periods and help prepare a catch-up plan.
Need help?
Dash Consulting can assist with this service.
Contact us for practical support, document preparation and compliance guidance.