CIPC Annual Returns: the complete SA guide

Every company and close corporation registered with the CIPC must file an **annual return** each year — it confirms the business is still trading and keeps it on the register. ## Who must file, and when - All (Pty) Ltd companies and close corporations. - Within **30 business days** after the anniversary of registration. ## What it costs The fee scales with annual turnover — from around **R100** for the smallest businesses to **R4,000+** for larger ones. ## Why it matters If you miss annual returns, the CIPC can **deregister** your company. Deregistration can freeze your bank account, void contracts, and disqualify you from tenders. Over 800,000 companies were flagged for deregistration in January 2025 alone. ## Important: Beneficial Ownership comes first Since 1 July 2024 you **cannot file your annual return** until your **Beneficial Ownership** record is filed. See our Beneficial Ownership guide. > Not sure where you stand? Run a free Compliance Check — it shows your status and the exact next step.