Complete Guide to OPC Annual Return Filing: Compliance, Due Dates & Penalties

In India, the One Person Company (OPC) structure has gained immense popularity among solo entrepreneurs and small business owners due to its simplicity and limited liability benefits. While it offers operational ease, it also comes with specific annual compliance responsibilities. One of the most critical obligations for an OPC is OPC Annual Return Filing, a mandatory requirement under the Companies Act, 2013.

Whether you are a first-time entrepreneur or a seasoned professional operating as an OPC, understanding the nuances of annual filing is essential for avoiding penalties and maintaining your company’s legal standing. This blog will provide you with a detailed, step-by-step guide on OPC Annual Return Filing, due dates, penalties, and the role of experts like Ebizfiling in ensuring 100% compliance.

What is OPC Annual Return Filing?

OPC Annual Return Filing refers to the process where a One Person Company is required to submit its annual financial statements and returns to the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) each financial year. Despite having only one shareholder, an OPC must comply with most of the filing requirements applicable to private limited companies, with a few exemptions provided by the MCA.

Proper and timely filing ensures transparency, credibility, and smooth business operations. Non-compliance can attract heavy penalties and affect future funding opportunities or even lead to the disqualification of directors.

Key Features of OPC Annual Filing

Mandatory even if there is no turnover or business activity.

Includes filing of Form AOC-4 (Financial Statements) and Form MGT-7A (Annual Return).

Financials must be audited by a Chartered Accountant.

Due dates are based on the financial year end.

Failure to comply leads to penalties on both company and director.

Importance of Annual Compliance for OPCs

Here’s why OPC annual return filing is crucial:

Legal Standing: Maintains the active status of the company in government records.

Avoiding Penalties: MCA imposes heavy fines for late or missed filings.

Improves Credibility: Compliant companies build better trust with banks, vendors, and investors.

Filing History: Crucial for loan approvals, tenders, and vendor registrations.

Director Protection: Protects the sole director from legal and financial liabilities.

Annual Compliance Checklist for OPC

Appointment of Auditor (Form ADT-1)

Within 30 days from incorporation or within 15 days from the AGM (if held).

Every OPC must appoint a qualified Chartered Accountant.

Preparation of Financial Statements

Including Balance Sheet, Profit & Loss Account, and Notes to Accounts.

Form AOC-4 Filing

Filed with the MCA containing details of the financial statements.

Due within 180 days from the end of the financial year.

Form MGT-7A Filing

OPCs file MGT-7A, a simplified version of the annual return form.

Contains details like shareholding, director details, and company structure.

Income Tax Return (ITR-6)

To be filed annually even if there’s no profit.

Deadline is typically 30th September unless extended.

Maintenance of Statutory Registers

Though not frequently checked, maintaining registers is mandatory.

Due Dates for OPC Annual Return Filing

Form Purpose Due Date

AOC-4 Filing Financial Statements Within 180 days from FY end (i.e., 27th September for FY ending 31st March)

MGT-7A Annual Return Within 60 days from AGM (AGM not mandatory for OPC, so usually same as AOC-4)

ITR-6 Income Tax Return 30th September (subject to extension by CBDT)

Documents Required for Filing

Certificate of Incorporation (COI)

PAN Card of the Company

Financial Statements (audited)

DSC (Digital Signature Certificate) of the Director

Auditor’s Report

Board Resolution for approval of financials

Details of Shareholding

Bank statements and invoices

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Failing to file OPC annual returns can attract hefty fines:

For AOC-4: ₹100 per day of default with no upper limit.

For MGT-7A: ₹100 per day of default.

Directors may also face disqualification for prolonged non-compliance.

The longer the delay, the higher the penalty – making it imperative for OPCs to file on time. Legal notices or proceedings can also be initiated against habitual defaulters.

OPC Filing Exemptions

While OPCs follow most private limited company compliances, they are exempt from:

Holding an Annual General Meeting (AGM)

Signing of annual return by a Company Secretary (if not appointed)

These exemptions reduce the compliance burden slightly but do not exempt the company from filing obligations.

How Ebizfiling Can Help

At Ebizfiling, we understand the legalities and documentation requirements involved in OPC annual return filing. We offer expert-led, end-to-end solutions to ensure 100% compliance, timely submission, and peace of mind.

Here’s what we offer:

Free compliance consultation

Document preparation and audit support

Filing of AOC-4 and MGT-7A

Income tax return filing

Digital Signature support

Ongoing compliance reminders

Our team of Chartered Accountants, Company Secretaries, and legal experts handle every step professionally. We simplify the process so you can focus on running your business while we take care of your legal obligations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. Is an OPC required to hold an AGM?

No, OPCs are exempted from holding an Annual General Meeting under the Companies Act, 2013.

Q2. Can I file my OPC returns myself?

While technically possible, it’s highly recommended to seek professional help, especially for preparing financials, audit reports, and avoiding penalties.

Q3. What if there is no income in the OPC?

Even if there is no income or activity, OPC annual return filing is still mandatory to maintain legal status.

Q4. Can an OPC be converted into a Private Limited Company?

Yes, after fulfilling certain conditions like having at least two directors and two shareholders, OPCs can be converted.

Q5. Can an OPC be closed if not operational?

Yes, an OPC can apply for strike-off under Section 248 if it hasn’t commenced operations within a year or remains inactive.

Final Thoughts

OPC Annual Return Filing is a critical compliance that every One Person Company must complete every year, regardless of its business volume. Skipping or delaying this process not only risks heavy penalties but can also damage your company's credibility. With regulations evolving and filing windows tightening, it’s essential to partner with experts like Ebizfiling who ensure accuracy, timeliness, and affordability.

Whether you're an entrepreneur managing your OPC solo or expanding gradually, keeping your annual filings in order is a sign of professionalism and long-term planning. Don’t leave compliance to the last minute – plan ahead and stay worry-free.