A CIPC annual return is a yearly fee and confirmation every registered company and close corporation must file with CIPC to stay active. It's due each year within 30 business days of your registration anniversary (companies) and is not a tax return. Failing to file can lead to penalties and eventual deregistration of your company.
Company Registration & CIPC
CIPC Annual Returns Explained: Deadlines, Fees, Penalties & How to File
By Mokoena Fortified Holdings · Updated 4 July 2026
Quick Answer
Many business owners register a company, then forget about it — until they discover it's been deregistered for missing annual returns. This guide explains what the CIPC annual return is (and isn't), when it's due, what it costs, what happens if you miss it, and how to get back in good standing.
What is a CIPC annual return?
It's a yearly declaration to CIPC that your company is still active and trading, accompanied by a filing fee based on turnover. It keeps your company on the register. Importantly, it is different from a SARS tax return — many owners confuse the two. You must do both, separately.
When is it due?
- Companies: within 30 business days after the anniversary of the registration date, every year.
- Close corporations (CCs): during the anniversary month of registration, up to two months after.
Diarise your registration date so you never miss it.
How much does it cost?
The fee is turnover-based — smaller companies pay less. Late filing may attract additional penalties.
What happens if you don't file?
- Your company falls into non-compliance.
- Continued failure leads to deregistration — the company legally ceases to exist.
- A deregistered company can't trade, tender, bank, or contract validly.
- You can apply for re-instatement (CoR40.5), but it's more work and cost than simply filing on time.
Key Takeaways
- Annual returns keep your company registered — file every year.
- Due within 30 business days of your registration anniversary (companies).
- It's NOT a SARS tax return — do both.
- Missing it risks penalties and deregistration.
- Re-instatement is possible but harder than filing on time.
Frequently Asked Questions
+Is a CIPC annual return the same as a tax return?
No — the annual return is to CIPC to stay registered; tax returns are to SARS.
+When is my annual return due?
Within 30 business days of your company's registration anniversary each year.
+What happens if I don't file?
Penalties and, eventually, deregistration.
+Can I reinstate a deregistered company?
Yes, via CIPC re-instatement (CoR40.5), with requirements and fees.
Let Mokoena Fortified Holdings handle it for you
Skip the admin and avoid costly mistakes. Our team registers, structures and sets up South African businesses every day — fast, affordable and fully compliant. Get a clear, all-in quote with no surprises.
Related Guides
Company Registration & CIPC
