The Ultimate Guide to Filing ACRA Annual Returns in Singapore (2025/2026 Edition)
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ACRA Filing
The Ultimate Guide to Filing ACRA Annual Returns in Singapore (2025/2026 Edition)
Learn how to file your ACRA Annual Return in 2025. Step-by-step BizFile+ guide, latest deadlines, XBRL requirements, and how to avoid $600 late fees.
Maintaining compliance in Singapore doesn't have to be a headache. Whether you are a first-time founder or an experienced director, filing your ACRA Annual Return (AR) is a non-negotiable statutory requirement.
In this guide, we break down the filing process into simple, actionable steps, explain the latest deadlines, and help you avoid the common pitfalls that lead to $600 late fees.
What is an ACRA Annual Return?
An Annual Return is an electronic filing made via BizFile+ that confirms your company’s vital information is up to date. It includes details on:
Company officers (Directors and Secretary)
Registered office address
Share capital and shareholders
Financial statements (in XBRL or PDF format)
Date of your Annual General Meeting (AGM)
1. Important Filing Deadlines (2025–2026)
Timing is everything. Missing your deadline by even one day triggers automatic penalties.
Company Type | AGM Deadline | Annual Return Deadline |
Private Companies | Within 6 months of FYE | Within 7 months of FYE |
Listed Companies | Within 4 months of FYE | Within 5 months of FYE |
Example: If your Financial Year End (FYE) is 31 December 2025, your private company must hold its AGM by 30 June 2026 and file its Annual Return by 31 July 2026.
2. Checklist: Before You Start
Don't log into BizFile+ until you have these three things ready:
Corppass Access: Ensure you have "Business User" or "Filing Agent" rights.
Financial Statements: Have your FS ready. Most companies must file in XBRL format using the BizFinx tool.
AGM Minutes: You will need the exact date the AGM was held (or the date the financial statements were circulated if you dispensed with the AGM).
3. Step-by-Step Guide: How to File via BizFile+
Follow this workflow to ensure your filing is accepted the first time:
Step 1: Log in to BizFile+
Navigate to www.bizfile.gov.sg. Log in using your Singpass via the Corppass portal.
Step 2: Navigate to Annual Filing
Under the "File Annual Returns" eService, search for your company using its UEN (Unique Entity Number) or Name.
Step 3: Verify Pre-filled Information
ACRA’s system pre-fills your current data. Review the following carefully:
Company Officers: Are all directors and secretaries still active?
Registered Office: Has your office moved in the last year?
Business Activity: Does your SSIC code still match your primary business?
Step 4: Input Financial Dates
Enter your Financial Year End (FYE) and the date your AGM was held. If your company is a Private Company that dispensed with the AGM, select the relevant exemption.
Step 5: Upload Financial Statements (XBRL/PDF)
Exempt Private Companies (EPCs): If solvent, you only need to declare solvency.
Non-EPCs & Small Companies: Upload your FS in XBRL format.
Dormant Companies: May be exempt from preparing FS if they meet ACRA's "Dormant Relevant Company" criteria.
Step 6: Review and Pay
The standard filing fee is S$60. Payment can be made via Credit Card, PayPal, or GIRO.
4. Penalties for Late Filing
ACRA uses a 2-tier penalty framework for late filings:
$300 penalty: If filed within 3 months after the deadline.
$600 penalty: If filed more than 3 months after the deadline.
Pro-Tip: If you realize you can't meet the deadline, apply for an Extension of Time (EOT) via BizFile+ at least 14 days before the due date. This costs $200 but gives you an extra 60 days.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I file the Annual Return myself?
Yes. Any company officer (Director or Secretary) can file. However, many SMEs hire a Registered Filing Agent (Corporate Secretary) to handle XBRL conversion and compliance to avoid errors.
My company is dormant. Do I still need to file?
Yes. All "Live" companies in Singapore must file an Annual Return, even if they had no transactions. You may, however, be exempt from filing financial statements.
What is XBRL and do I need it?
XBRL is a computer-readable language for financial data. Most Singapore companies (except solvent EPCs and certain dormant companies) must file their financials in this format.
Need Help with Your ACRA Filing?
If you find XBRL conversion too complex or want to ensure your company stays 100% compliant, Contact Our Expert Team Today for a hassle-free filing service.
Bestar Singapore: Your Trusted ACRA Registered Filing Agent & Corporate Secretary
The Ultimate Guide to Filing ACRA Annual Returns in Singapore (2025/2026 Edition)
Looking for a Registered Filing Agent in Singapore? Bestar offers expert Corporate Secretary services, ACRA filings, and compliance management for SMEs.
In Singapore’s rigorous regulatory environment, a Corporate Secretary is more than just a statutory requirement—they are your company’s compliance anchor. Bestar is a premier ACRA-licensed Registered Filing Agent (RFA) providing end-to-end corporate secretarial services designed to let entrepreneurs focus on growth while we handle the legalities.
Why Choose Bestar as Your Corporate Secretary?
Under Section 171 of the Companies Act, every company in Singapore must appoint a qualified Company Secretary within 6 months of incorporation. Bestar goes beyond the basic mandate by offering:
ACRA Registered Filing Agents: Our team is officially authorized to lodge documents and perform transactions on BizFile+ on behalf of your business.
Proactive Compliance Monitoring: We don't just file; we track your Financial Year End (FYE) and AGM deadlines to ensure you never face ACRA’s automatic $600 late penalties.
Comprehensive Business Support: As a full-service firm, we integrate secretarial duties with accounting, tax (IRAS), and payroll services for a seamless "one-stop" experience.
Our Corporate Secretarial Service Suite
Bestar provides a full spectrum of services to keep your company in "Good Standing":
1. Statutory Maintenance & Filing
Annual Return (AR) Filing: Timely lodgment of your company’s annual returns with ACRA.
XBRL Conversion: Professional preparation of financial statements in XBRL format for ACRA compliance.
Statutory Registers: Maintenance of mandatory books, including the Register of Registrable Controllers (RORC) and Registers of Directors/Shareholders.
2. Corporate Governance & Advisory
AGM & Board Meetings: Preparation of agendas, drafting of minutes, and facilitating Annual General Meetings.
Director Resolutions: Drafting of resolutions for changes in company structure, such as share transfers, change of officers, or address updates.
Constitution Amendments: Expert guidance on modifying your company's Memorandum and Articles of Association.
3. Specialized Support for Foreigners
Nominee Director Services: For foreign founders, we provide a local resident director to satisfy ACRA requirements.
Registered Office Address: A prestigious Singapore business address for all official correspondence.
Work Pass Applications: Seamless handling of Employment Pass (EP) and EntrePass applications.
Bestar's Unique "People First" Approach
Unlike "robot-heavy" digital platforms, Bestar combines modern technology with human expertise.
Feature | Bestar Advantage |
Availability | 24/7 Support – Entrepreneurship doesn't sleep, and neither do we. |
Experience | Decades of experience handling SMEs to Multinational Corporations. |
Pricing | Transparent, affordable packages (e.g., S$650 Incorporation Package including 12 months of secretarial service). |
Holistic | Integrated Audit, Tax, and HR services under one roof. |
Ready to Streamline Your Singapore Compliance?
Don't risk the legal standing of your business with missed deadlines or incorrect filings. Partner with Bestar, where your success is our success.
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