Whether you’re a business owner, nonprofit founder, or creative entrepreneur, filing your annual returns with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) is not optional — it’s the law. Yet, many registered entities in Nigeria still miss this step, often confusing it with tax filings or ignoring it altogether.
This article breaks it down: what annual returns are, who should file, the consequences of ignoring it, and how you can stay compliant with ease, even if you’re busy.
What Are CAC Annual Returns (And Why Do They Matter)?
Annual Returns are not the same as tax returns. Instead, they’re a compliance filing with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) to show that your business is still active and operational.
Think of it as a “status check”, a way to tell CAC, “We’re still here and doing business.” Even if you haven’t made a profit, you still need to file your annual return.
Filing keeps your business in good legal standing, which is critical when applying for government contracts, grants, loans, and partnerships.
Who Needs to File Annual Returns?
Almost all registered entities in Nigeria must file annual returns.So whether you’re a startup, solopreneur, or a registered NGO, this applies to you.
- Limited Liability Companies (LLCs) – Required to file annually.
- Business Names – File after the first 18 months of registration, then yearly.
- NGOs & Incorporated Trustees – Must file annual returns and updates on trustees or projects.
What Happens If You Don’t File Annual Returns?
Skipping your annual returns might not seem like a big deal — until the penalties hit.
Here’s what could happen:
- Late Penalties: You’ll be charged for every year you default, plus interest.
- Inactive Status: CAC can list your company as “inactive,” making it hard to prove legitimacy.
- Risk of Delisting: Continued non-compliance can get your business removed from the CAC register.
- Funding Restrictions: You may be ineligible for grants, visa approvals, contracts, or bank loans if your compliance status isn’t up-to-date.
In short: it’s not worth the risk.
How to File Your Annual Returns (Without Stress)
Here are your options:
1. Do It Yourself on the CAC Portal
If you’re familiar with CAC’s online portal, you can:
- Log in or create an account
- Fill the appropriate forms (based on your business type)
- Upload the required documents
- Pay the filing fee online
2. Use an Accredited CAC Agent (Like Corporate Bestie)
Most busy founders and entrepreneurs prefer to delegate this task. At Corporate Bestie, we:
- Help you prepare the right documents
- File your returns within 48 hours
- Save you from back-and-forth or costly errors
When Is the Deadline?
Technically, CAC deadlines vary based on your registration date. But most returns are due every June, and it’s strongly advised to file early to avoid penalties or portal delays.
Even if your business hasn’t made money yet, you still need to file — and it’s much easier to do it now than face fines later.
Why Choose Corporate Bestie for Your Filing?
We know business owners have a million things to handle, and forms and compliance shouldn’t slow you down.
Here’s why our clients trust us with their annual returns:
- Fast turnaround: Your filing is done in 48 hours or less
- Affordable rates: No hidden fees
- Hands-off process: We handle everything, start to finish
Whether you’re due this month or just want to get ahead of things, we’ll help you stay compliant and stress-free.
Ready to File Your Annual Returns?
Avoid late fees. Protect your CAC status. Keep your business ready for new opportunities.
👉 Let Corporate Bestie File for You — Start Now