All registered companies and close corporations in South Africa must file an Annual Return with CIPC. This confirms your business is still active and keeps your registration in good standing.
When to File
Your annual return is due within 30 business days after your company’s anniversary date (registration date).
Example: If your company was registered on 15 March 2020, your annual return is due by approximately 26 April each year.
Check your status
Log into CIPC eServices to check your compliance status and filing deadline.
Filing Fees (2025)
Fees are based on your company’s annual turnover:
| Annual Turnover | Fee |
|---|---|
| R0 - R1 million | R100 |
| R1 million - R10 million | R450 |
| R10 million - R25 million | R2,000 |
| Over R25 million | R4,000 |
| Close Corporations | R100 (flat rate) |
How to File
Option 1: Online (Recommended)
- Log into eservices.cipc.co.za
- Select “Annual Return”
- Confirm company details
- Select turnover range
- Pay filing fee
- Download confirmation
Option 2: Self-Service Terminal
Visit a CIPC office or approved bank branch with a self-service terminal.
Option 3: Through Accountant
Your accountant or company secretary can file on your behalf if they have the necessary access.
Information Required
The annual return form requires:
- Company registration number
- Confirmation that details are still correct
- Declaration of annual turnover range
- Director information verification
- Physical address confirmation
Update details first
If any company details have changed (directors, address, etc.), update these BEFORE filing your annual return.
What Happens If You Don’t File
Warning Stage
- CIPC sends reminder notices
- Company marked as “Not in Good Standing”
Deregistration Process
- After 2 years of non-compliance, CIPC initiates deregistration
- Public notice in Government Gazette
- 21 days to object
Consequences of Deregistration
- Company cannot legally trade
- Cannot enter contracts
- Bank accounts may be frozen
- Reinstatement is costly and time-consuming
Reinstatement
If your company has been deregistered:
| Type | Cost | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Recent deregistration | R400-R900 | 2-4 weeks |
| Long-term deregistration | R1,400+ | 4-8 weeks |
You’ll also need to pay all outstanding annual returns plus penalties.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Missing the deadline - Set calendar reminders
- Wrong turnover category - Underdeclaring can lead to penalties
- Outdated details - Update director/address changes first
- Not keeping records - Save all confirmation documents
Compliance Status
Your CIPC compliance status affects:
- Tender applications - Government requires good standing
- Bank accounts - Banks check CIPC status
- Contracts - Some clients require proof of compliance
- Business reputation - Status is publicly searchable
Get a compliance certificate
You can download a free “Letter of Good Standing” from CIPC eServices once you’re compliant.
Voluntary Deregistration
If you’re closing your business:
- Settle all debts
- File final tax returns with SARS
- Apply for voluntary deregistration (R400)
- Keep records for 7 years