🔁 CAC Annual Returns Filing: Everything You Must Know (2025 Guide)

📣 Introduction: Think Filing Annual Returns is Boring? Think Again

Annual returns may sound like just another CAC chore, but ignore them and you might just find your company slapped with fines, deregistration, or worse—FIRS nightmares. Filing your annual return is proof that your business is still alive and kicking. Whether you’re running a solo hustle or a corporate empire, this is one task you can’t ghost.

This guide will show you what annual returns are, who needs to file them, when, how, and what happens if you don’t. Let’s dive in.

📘 What are Annual Returns in Nigeria? (Hint: Not Your Profit Report)

An annual return is a yearly statement that companies and business names file with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC). It tells the CAC, “Hey, we’re still in business and here’s who’s running the show.”

It’s not about your income or expenses — it’s about company structure, directors, shareholders, and status updates.

🧍 Who Needs to File CAC Annual Returns? (Spoiler: Probably You)

Filing annual returns is mandatory for the following entities:

• ✅ Limited Liability Companies (LLCs)
  
• ✅ Business Names (registered ventures)
  
• ✅ Incorporated Trustees (NGOs, churches, associations)
  

💡 Even if your business is inactive, you still have to file.

🗓️ When Should You File Annual Returns in Nigeria?

⏰ Mark your calendar, or CAC will mark your file.

💸 What Are the Penalties for Not Filing?

If you skip or delay your annual returns:

• ⚠️ Late filing fees (₦5,000+ for companies)
  
• ⚠️ Business name could be struck off the register
  
• ⚠️ You may be barred from obtaining CAC documents or making changes
  

So yeah, skipping is not worth it.

🛠️ How to File Annual Returns in Nigeria (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Prepare Required Info & Documents

• CAC registration number
  
• Company/business name
  
• Current status of directors/shareholders or trustees
  
• Annual return form (depends on your entity type)
  

Step 2: Visit the CAC Portal

• Go to www.cac.gov.ng
  
• Sign in or create an account
  

Step 3: Fill & Submit Your Annual Return Form

• Fill the appropriate form:
  
  • CAC-BN AR (for business names)
    
  • CAC-AR1 (for companies)
    
  • CAC-IT AR (for incorporated trustees)
    

Step 4: Pay the Required Fees

• Use Remita or card payment
  

Step 5: Get Your Acknowledgment Receipt

• This proves you filed. Keep it handy for banks, grants, or auditors.
  

📊 CAC Annual Return Filing Fees (2024 Updated Table)

💡 Additional charges may apply if you’re filing late.

📄 Required Documents for Annual Return Filing

Here’s what you might need:

• ✅ CAC Certificate of Incorporation
  
• ✅ Details of directors or proprietors
  
• ✅ Annual Return Form (downloadable from CAC)
  
• ✅ Remita receipt of payment
  
• ✅ Company resolution (for some entities)
  

🚀 Benefits of Filing Your Annual Returns on Time

• 👍 Keeps your business compliant
  
• 🏦 Needed to open or maintain corporate bank accounts
  
• 🧾 Essential for bidding for contracts
  
• 📋 Required for tax filing and audits
  
• ✅ Protects your company from penalties or deregistration
  

🙅 Common Mistakes to Avoid

• ❌ Filing with outdated information
  
• ❌ Missing your deadline
  
• ❌ Submitting wrong forms
  
• ❌ Thinking you can ignore it because your business is inactive
  

🔍 Double-check before submitting. Or hire a pro to help.

❓ FAQs: Annual Returns in Nigeria

Q1: Can I file my annual returns myself?

Yes, you can file it online via the CAC portal — but a CAC agent or lawyer can help if you’re unsure.

Q2: Do inactive companies need to file?

Yes. Even dormant companies must file annual returns.

Q3: What happens if my company is struck off the register?

You’ll need to apply for restoration and pay outstanding penalties. It’s a long, expensive road.

Q4: Do I need to show profit or revenue?

Nope. Annual returns are not financial statements.

📚 Suggested Internal Links

• How to Register a Limited Liability Company in Nigeria
  
• How to Register a Business Name in Nigeria
  
• Trademark Registration in Nigeria
  
• Required Documents for Foreigners Starting a Business in Nigeria
  

🎯 Ready to File Your Annual Returns Without the Stress?

Avoid CAC wahala and get it right the first time. Our team helps businesses like yours:

• ✅ File annual returns on time
  
• ✅ Avoid late penalties
  
• ✅ Stay 100% compliant
  

📞 Book a Free Filing Consultation Today and keep your business running smooth!