Filing annual returns with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) is a mandatory compliance requirement for every registered Business Name in Nigeria. Whether your business is small or large, active or inactive, CAC expects yearly confirmation that the business still exists and its details are accurate.
This article explains what CAC annual returns are, when to file, requirements, step-by-step filing process, fees, and penalties all in simple terms.
What Are CAC Annual Returns?
CAC annual returns are statutory yearly filings submitted to the Corporate Affairs Commission to update the status of a registered business. It confirms:
That the business is still operating
The current business address
Details of the proprietor(s)
Nature of business activities
Annual returns are not tax payments. They are strictly for legal compliance under the Companies and Allied Matters Act (CAMA) 2020.
Who Must File Annual Returns with CAC?
The following entities must file annual returns:
Business Names (sole proprietorships and partnerships)
Limited liability companies
Incorporated trustees (NGOs)
�� This guide focuses on Business Names only.
When to File Annual Returns for a Business Name
For Business Names:
You do NOT file annual returns in the year of registration
Filing starts the year after registration
Annual returns must be filed on or before 30th June every year
Example:
If your business was registered in 2024, your first annual return will cover 2025 and must be filed by 30 June 2026.
Information Required for Filing Business Name Annual Returns
To file CAC annual returns for a business name, you will need:
Business Details
Registered business name
CAC registration number
Principal place of business
Branch addresses (if any)
Nature of business activities
Proprietor(s) Details
Full name(s) of proprietor(s)
Date of birth
Nationality
Occupation
Contact details
Financial Summary (Basic)
Annual turnover (estimated revenue)
Net assets (assets minus liabilities)
�� Audited financial statements are NOT required for business names.
How to File Annual Returns with CAC for a Business Name (Step-by-Step)
CAC annual returns are filed online through the CAC portal or by a CAC-accredited agent.
Step 1: Access the CAC Portal
Log in to the CAC post-incorporation portal using your registered account.
Step 2: Select Annual Returns Filing
Choose Annual Returns and select Business Name as the entity type.
Step 3: Enter Business Registration Number
Provide your CAC Business Name registration number to retrieve your records.
Step 4: Confirm or Update Business Information
Review and update:
Business address
Nature of business
Proprietor details
Financial summary
Step 5: Pay Filing Fee
Make payment online through the CAC platform.
Step 6: Submit Application
After submission, CAC reviews the filing.
Step 7: Download Acknowledgment
Once approved, download the CAC Annual Returns Acknowledgment Receipt as proof of compliance.
CAC Annual Returns Filing Fee for Business Name
Standard filing fee: ₦3,000
Late filing penalty: additional charges apply depending on how long the return is overdue
If you missed previous years, all outstanding returns must be cleared before your business can regain active status.
Who Can File Annual Returns?
Business owners may file directly if they can access the portal
Many people use CAC-accredited agents (lawyers, accountants, company secretaries) to avoid errors and delays
Using an accredited agent is recommended if:
You missed previous years
Your CAC status is inactive
You are unsure of the process
Benefits of Filing Annual Returns with CAC
Filing annual returns helps you:
Keep your business legally active
Avoid penalties and sanctions
Maintain a good compliance record
Improve credibility with banks, clients, and government agencies
Qualify for loans, grants, and contracts
What Happens If You Don’t File Annual Returns?
Failure to file annual returns may lead to:
Accumulated penalties
Business marked Inactive on CAC records
Inability to make other CAC updates
Risk of the business being struck off the CAC register
Conclusion
Filing annual returns with CAC for your business name is simple, affordable, and compulsory. Once you understand the process, it becomes an easy yearly task. Always aim to file before 30th June each year to avoid penalties and keep your business compliant.
