Annual return homepage

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Annual return podcasts: Listen to the information contained on these pages about annual returns. Choose from three podcasts; filing requirements, FAQs, the filing process.

Filing requirements [2.38 MB - 2:36 minutes]

Frequently asked questions [2.82MB - 3:04 minutes]

The filing process [3.59MB - 3:55 minutes]

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Annual returns: Annual returns

As a limited liability company, a company must file an annual return with the Companies Office each year to maintain its registration.

If an annual return is not filed by the due date, the company risks being removed from the Register of Companies.

Filing online: The Companies Office will now only accept annual returns that are filed via the Companies Office website. To file your next annual return you will be required to use the Companies Office online services.

More information about changes to filing annual returns

How to file your annual return online

Your guide to filing an annual return online

Your guide to filing an annual return online

In response to client feedback, the Companies Office has introduced changes to the look and feel of the online annual return service. Even if you are familiar with the annual return service please take a few minutes to read this guide as this service has been modified.

File your annual return online to save time and money. Filing your annual return online is easy and will only take a couple of minutes and filing online is FREE.

The simple steps to filing online

Select File Annual Return from the Companies office homepage. If you have an email 'Annual Return Reminder' click on the link provided and go to Step 3.
Enter the Company Number and select Continue. If you do not know the company number, you can use the Locate Company button to help you.
Enter your contact details. The red asterisks denote mandatory fields. Select Continue.
Enter the company key and select Continue.
Update the information in:
- Step 1 - Company Addresses
- Step 2 - Directors and
- Step 3 - Share Parcels.
Answer the questions in Step 4 - Annual Return Information.
You must select File Annual Return to file your annual return regardless of whether any changes have been made to your company information.

A confirmation screen will confirm the online registration of the annual return. You will also receive confirmation via email.

Hints and tips

You will not be required to enter the company key if you follow the link provided in your email reminder.
During any of the steps you can update details by clicking the Update Details button.
Be sure to tick the certification box at the end of each section.
Some of the information contained in Step 4 - Annual Return Information will be populated by our system. Please check that this information is correct.

Any questions? Having trouble? Here’s how to get some help…

Browse our website - it contains information on all online services.
Select the Help option on your screen for full details related to filing an annual return.
Visit the Customer Support section of our website to ask a question.
Call us during business hours on toll free 0508 ANNUAL (0508 266 825) or international +64 3 962 2602.