CIPC Annual Return Deadlines Every Business Owner Should Know
- Johan De Wet
- Oct 13
- 3 min read
Missing your CIPC annual return deadline can cost you money — and even your company.
Every registered business in South Africa must file its annual return with the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC) on time each year.Yet thousands of companies miss it because they don’t understand when it’s due or how to track it.
Here’s everything you need to know about CIPC annual return deadlines, including how to find yours and what happens if you miss it.
What Is a CIPC Annual Return?
A CIPC annual return is a yearly filing that confirms your company is still active and operating.
It’s not a SARS tax return — it’s a legal requirement under the Companies Act (2008) to keep your company registered and compliant.
Even if your company isn’t trading or has made no income, you must still file your annual return with the CIPC.
When Are CIPC Annual Returns Due?
CIPC annual returns are due within 30 business days after your company’s registration anniversary date.
This is the date your company was officially incorporated — not your financial year-end or tax season.
Example:
If your company was registered on 5 March 2023, your annual return for 2024 must be filed between 5 March and 17 April 2024 (30 business days).
How to Find Your Company’s CIPC Due Date
There are two easy ways to check your due date:
Option 1: Through the CIPC Website
Go to https://eservices.cipc.co.za.
Click “Customer Login” → “Annual Returns.”
Enter your company registration number (e.g., 2021/123456/07).
The system will show your next filing window and whether you’re compliant.
Option 2: Through Smartbook
If you’d rather not navigate the CIPC portal, Smartbook can check your annual return deadlines for you — instantly.
We’ll:
Verify your registration date
Identify your next filing deadline
Remind you before your due date
File on your behalf automatically each year
Just send your company name or registration number, and we’ll tell you exactly when your next CIPC annual return is due.
What Happens If You Miss the Deadline?
If you don’t file within 30 business days of your anniversary date:
You’ll be charged R150 per month in penalties.
Your company becomes non-compliant.
If ignored for too long, your company may be deregistered by CIPC.
Once deregistered, you’ll need to apply for reinstatement, which involves paying all penalties and re-filing your missing returns.
How to Stay on Top of CIPC Deadlines
Here are three easy ways to never miss your filing date again:
Mark your company’s registration date in your calendar each year.
Set reminders 2–3 weeks before your due date.
Use Smartbook’s automated filing service to handle annual returns on time, every year — no stress.
CIPC Annual Return Deadline Summary
Company Type | Deadline | Grace Period | Penalty |
Private Company (Pty Ltd) | 30 business days after registration anniversary | 30 business days | R150 per month per outstanding year |
Non-Profit Company (NPC) | Within 30 business days of anniversary | 30 business days | R150 per month per outstanding year |
Closed Corporation (CC) | Within 30 business days of anniversary | 30 business days | R150 per month per outstanding year |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. How often must I file a CIPC annual return?
Every year, within 30 business days of your registration anniversary.
2. What date does CIPC use as my anniversary?
The date your company was officially registered with CIPC.
3. Is my CIPC due date the same as tax year-end?
No. CIPC deadlines are based on your registration date, not SARS filing seasons.
4. What if I miss my CIPC deadline?
Penalties start immediately, and after several months, CIPC can deregister your company.
5. Can Smartbook remind me before the due date?
Yes! Smartbook can automatically track and file your annual returns before the deadline every year.
Final Thoughts
Your CIPC annual return deadline is one of the most important compliance dates for your business.
Missing it means paying penalties or risking deregistration — but with Smartbook, you never have to worry.
Let Smartbook track and file your CIPC annual returns automatically each year.
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