An Annual Return (Company Law) is a mandatory filing under the Companies Act, 2013, that every registered company in India—whether private, public, or one-person company (OPC)—must submit each financial year to the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA). It is a detailed summary of the company’s structure, operations, and compliance status, as recorded on the last day of the financial year.
The annual return includes essential information such as the company’s registered office address, principal business activities, details of directors and shareholders, shareholding patterns, indebtedness, and any changes made during the year. This document ensures regulatory transparency and helps the government maintain up-to-date corporate records.
For most companies, filing the annual return is done in Form MGT-7, and in some cases, Form MGT-7A (for small companies and OPCs). It must be digitally signed and filed within 60 days of the Annual General Meeting (AGM). Failure to file the Annual Return (Company Law) on time may lead to heavy penalties and legal consequences.
In practical terms, the annual return is a crucial part of a company’s compliance checklist. It shows that the company is actively operating and adhering to statutory requirements. It is also often required during audits, funding rounds, or when applying for government tenders or loans.
Staying compliant with the requirement to file an Annual Return (Company Law) helps build business credibility, avoids unnecessary fines, and supports smooth regulatory operations. For startups and small businesses, timely filing demonstrates professionalism and good corporate governance, which can be beneficial during investor evaluations or strategic partnerships.