CIPC annual returns, explained properly

What the annual return is

The annual return is not a tax return. It is CIPC's yearly confirmation that your company still exists, with current details, plus a levy based on turnover. SARS returns are entirely separate; you need both.

When yours is due

Companies file within 30 business days of the anniversary of registration each year. Close corporations file from the anniversary month through the month after. File inside the window and you pay the standard fee; outside it, the late fee applies.

What it costs

• Turnover under R1 million: R100 (R150 late)
• R1 million to under R10 million: R450 (R600 late)
• R10 million to under R25 million: R2 000 (R2 500 late)
• R25 million and more: R3 000 (R4 000 late)

Work out your exact fee with the annual return calculator. Since 2023, CIPC also blocks the filing until your beneficial ownership register is up to date.

What happens if you skip it

CIPC assumes the company is inactive and starts deregistration: first "AR deregistration" status, then final deregistration. Banks freeze accounts of deregistered companies, and company property can end up bona vacantia - owned by the state. Directors often discover this at the worst moment, mid-tender or mid-sale.

Fixing missed years

Before final deregistration: file all outstanding returns with late fees and the company usually returns to compliance. After final deregistration: a reinstatement application is needed first, which is slower and costlier. The earlier you act, the cheaper the rescue.

Frequently asked questions