Business
Every company and CC must file an annual return — even if dormant — plus a beneficial-ownership declaration.
Key facts
WhoAll companies & close corporations
DeadlineWithin 30 business days of the anniversary
AttachBeneficial ownership + AFS / Financial Accountability Supplement
Risk of not filingDeregistration by CIPC
A CIPC annual return is a mandatory yearly submission for all companies and close corporations — whether trading or not. It is not a tax return; it’s a confirmation that the company is still active, filed with CIPC.
What’s required now
- File within 30 business days of the annual-return due date (your registration anniversary)
- Submit the latest Beneficial Ownership declaration — the natural persons who ultimately own or control the company (names, ID numbers, nationality, nature of interest). Mandatory since the 2023 amendments.
- Attach audited or reviewed financial statements, or a Financial Accountability Supplement
If you don’t file
The company becomes non-compliant and can eventually be deregistered, which can freeze bank accounts and contracts. Reinstatement is costly, so diarise your date.
Need help with this? Bekin Consulting can handle it for you — from registration to filing.
Related guides
- Registering a business at CIPC
- B-BBEE affidavit vs certificate
- Your annual compliance calendar
- Choosing the right business structure
General information for South Africa, current to 2026 — not legal, tax or financial advice. Confirm current rules with SARS, CIPC or the DSD before acting.