Managing your annual return
Updating your details on the Companies Register each year
To remain on the register, you must confirm or update your company's information when you file your annual return.
On this page:
When your annual return is due
When your company is incorporated, we tell you which month your annual return will be due each year.
If it's your first year after incorporation
Your company doesn't need to file an annual return in the first calendar year following incorporation with the Companies Office. For example, if your company was incorporated in 2022, your first annual return won't be due until 2023.
If your company isn't trading
Regardless of whether or not your company is trading, you must file an annual return each calendar year. Please note, you won’t need to file an annual return in the year you incorporate your company. If your company has stopped trading, you may want to consider applying for removal of your company from the register. Seek professional advice before taking this step.
If your company is registered overseas
All companies on the register, including overseas companies, must file an annual return.
You can change your filing month
You can change your annual return filing month online and free of charge. Please note though that you can't change your filing month:
- if your annual return is overdue
- to the current month and year, or
- to the months of December or January.
Receive email or text reminders
Receive regular email or text message reminders during the month your company's annual return is due.
Who can authorise an annual return
The annual return must be authorised by a company director, or by a solicitor, a qualified chartered accountant authorised for that purpose.
Get an extract of your current information
When preparing your annual return, it can be useful to download an annual return extract which shows which information must be confirmed or updated.
Requesting a time extension to file a return
If you're unable to file your company's annual return by the due date, you can apply for a time extension. If granted, you'll have an extra 20 working days from the date the extension is granted to file your annual return.
Other guides in
Filing annual returns
- What an annual return is
- How to file an annual return
- Forgotten your RealMe® username or password
- Receiving annual return reminders
- Requesting an extension to file an annual return
- Changing your annual return filing month