What is OPC Annual Return Filing and Why It’s Crucial for Compliance?
One Person Companies (OPCs) have become a popular business structure for solo entrepreneurs in India. It allows a single person to enjoy the benefits of a private limited company, including limited liability and legal recognition, without needing partners or co-founders. However, just like other companies, OPCs must follow annual compliance procedures to stay legally active and avoid penalties. One of the most important of these is OPC annual return filing.
What is OPC Annual Return Filing?
OPC annual return filing refers to the process of submitting specific financial and corporate documents to the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) each financial year. Despite being a single-person entity, an OPC is treated as a separate legal identity and is required to maintain statutory compliance with the Companies Act, 2013.
The annual return includes information about the company’s financials, director details, business activities, and shareholding structure. Even if the OPC has had no major transactions during the year, filing is still mandatory.
Key ROC Forms Required for OPC Annual Filing
Form AOC-4This form is used to file the financial statements, including the balance sheet, profit & loss account, auditor's report, etc. It must be filed within 180 days from the end of the financial year.
Form MGT-7AThis is a simplified version of the annual return specifically designed for OPCs and small companies. It includes details of the company structure, director’s report, and shareholding.
DIR-3 KYCThe director of the OPC must file this form annually to update and verify their KYC details.
Why OPC Annual Filing is Important
Many first-time business owners assume that since an OPC is a single-member company, the compliance burden is lower. While it’s true that OPCs are exempt from some requirements like holding Annual General Meetings (AGMs), annual return filing remains mandatory. Here's why it matters:
Legal Compliance: Filing keeps your OPC in good standing with the MCA.
Avoid Penalties: Non-compliance can lead to daily fines starting from ₹100 per day per form.
Loan & Funding Eligibility: Up-to-date filings improve the credibility of your business and make it easier to secure loans or funding.
Future Expansion: Filing history is often reviewed during mergers, investments, or conversion to a private limited company.
Due Dates for OPC Annual Return Filing
AOC-4: Within 180 days from the end of the financial year (i.e., by 27th September if the financial year ends on 31st March).
MGT-7A: Within 60 days from the end of the financial year.
DIR-3 KYC: By 30th September every year.
How Ebizfiling Helps with OPC Annual Return Filing
At Ebizfiling, we understand that legal compliance can be complex and time-consuming, especially for solo entrepreneurs managing all aspects of their business. That’s why we offer specialized services for OPC annual return filing, ensuring accuracy, timeliness, and peace of mind.
Our expert team assists with:
Preparation and review of financial statements
Filing of AOC-4 and MGT-7A
Director KYC updates
Reminders for due dates and follow-ups
With transparent pricing and dedicated customer support, Ebizfiling is your trusted partner for seamless compliance.
Conclusion
Filing annual returns is not just a regulatory requirement—it’s a smart business practice that protects your company’s legal status and builds credibility. As an OPC owner, staying on top of your compliance obligations is essential to avoid fines and support future business growth. Let Ebizfiling handle your OPC annual return filing so you can focus on scaling your venture without worrying about paperwork.