Corporate Secretarial

Failing to file your Annual Return with ACRA is one of the most common compliance oversights for Singapore companies — and it attracts penalties that increase the longer you delay. Here’s everything you need to know. What is the Annual Return? The Annual Return (AR) is a statutory filing made through ACRA’s BizFile+ portal. It confirms your company’s key information as of a specific date — including registered address, directors, shareholders, and share capital — and is accompanied by the filing of financial statements (for companies that are required to attach them). Who Must File? All companies incorporated in Singapore must file an Annual Return with ACRA every year, including: 💡 Sole proprietorships and partnerships file differently — the Annual Return requirement applies to companies registered under the Companies Act. Key Deadlines Company Type Deadline Listed company Within 5 months of financial year-end Non-listed company Within 7 months of financial year-end Dormant company Within 7 months of financial year-end What Information You Need Penalties for Late Filing ACRA imposes a late lodgement penalty that increases over time — from S$300 for filing within 3 months late, up to S$600 for filing more than 3 months late. Directors can also be held personally liable and face prosecution for persistent non-compliance.