How OPC Annual Return Affects Your Business?

[Ishita Ramani]

A One Person Company (OPC) is a unique structure under the Companies Act, 2013, allowing a single person to run a business with limited liability. Since the company is now open and is operating, it will have to file for compliance every year to hold its legal status with the government and authorities.

This article will provide extra information about OPC, how OPC annual returns affect your business and their importance.

What is the OPC Annual Return?

The OPC Annual Return is a mandatory filing that must be submitted each 12 months to the Registrar of Companies (RoC). It is detailed report that consists of important data about the OPC, such as its financial statements, shareholding pattern, and details of administrators. It is usually filed using Form MGT-7 and Form AOC-4, which gives comprehensive details about the organisation’s activities over the financial 12 months.

Key Components of OPC Annual Return

• Financial Statements: This comprises your company's yearly profits and losses and balance sheet.
• Shareholder Details: The OPC Annual Return includes information about the sole shareholder and director.
• Director Information: It includes details of the director’s details, their interests, and other relevant personal data.

How OPC Annual Return Impacts Your Business?

• Fulfils Legal Rules: Filing the OPC Annual Return keeps your company legally compliant. Missing it can lead to fines or even company closure.
• Builds Trust: It shows your business is honest and well-managed, which builds trust with banks and investors.
• Avoids Penalties: Late filing can cost ₹100 per day. Timely filing saves money.
• Boosts Corporate Image: Filing on time improves your business image and helps in getting loans or funding.

Due Dates for OPC Annual Return Filing:

Form AOC-4 (for Financial Statements):

• Must be filed within 180 days after the financial year ends.
• If your financial year ends on 31st March, the due date is 27th September.

Form MGT-7A (for Annual Return):

• Should be filed within 60 days from the end of the financial year.
• Since OPC doesn’t need to hold an AGM, the due date is 29th May (for FY ending 31st March).

Conclusion

Filing the OPC Annual Return on time keeps your business legally safe, avoids penalties, and enhances your corporate image. It helps build trust with investors and ensures smooth business operations. Timely compliance is key to long term success for any One Person Company.