OPC Annual Return Filing in India: A Complete Guide for One Person Companies

One Person Company (OPC) has emerged as a popular choice for entrepreneurs in India who want the benefits of a private limited company while maintaining single ownership. Since its introduction under the Companies Act, 2013, OPC has been seen as a stepping stone for startups, freelancers, and solo entrepreneurs looking for limited liability and corporate recognition. However, forming an OPC is only the beginning—the real responsibility lies in staying compliant with government regulations. Among the most important requirements is OPC annual return filing, which ensures legal standing, credibility, and financial transparency.

What is OPC Annual Return Filing?

OPC annual return filing is the mandatory process of submitting financial statements, compliance documents, and annual returns of a One Person Company to the Registrar of Companies (ROC). Even though OPC has only one director and shareholder, the company is still required to file returns just like other companies registered under the Companies Act. Companies like Ebizfilling help entrepreneurs complete this process seamlessly, avoiding penalties and ensuring timely compliance.

Why is OPC Annual Return Filing Important?

Filing annual returns is not just a legal formality—it serves multiple purposes:

1. Legal Compliance: Filing ensures the company adheres to the Companies Act, 2013.

2. Transparency: It provides a clear picture of financial health to stakeholders, investors, and regulators.

3. Credibility: Compliant companies build trust with banks, investors, and customers.

4. Avoiding Penalties: Failure to file on time can attract heavy fines and disqualification of the director.

5. Business Growth: A compliant OPC can easily expand, secure funding, and even convert into a private limited company when required.

Due Dates for OPC Annual Return Filing

Every OPC must follow specific timelines for filing:

• Form MGT-7A (Annual Return):

  OPCs must file Form MGT-7A within 60 days from the conclusion of the Annual General Meeting (AGM). Since OPCs are not required to hold AGMs, the return must be filed within 60 days from the date of the financial year ending (31st March).

• Form AOC-4 (Financial Statements):

  The financial statements of the company must be filed within 180 days from the end of the financial year.

For example, if the financial year ends on 31st March 2025, then:

• AOC-4 must be filed by 27th September 2025, and

• MGT-7A must be filed by 29th May 2025.

Step-by-Step Process for OPC Annual Return Filing

Here’s how OPC annual return filing is carried out:

1. Collect Financial Records: Gather balance sheets, profit and loss statements, and other relevant documents.

2. Prepare Financial Statements: The financial data must be drafted and approved by the director.

3. File AOC-4: Submit the financial statements in Form AOC-4 within the prescribed due date.

4. File MGT-7A: File the annual return in Form MGT-7A with details like shareholding, compliance certifications, and company details.

5. Certification: Ensure all forms are digitally signed using the director’s Digital Signature Certificate (DSC).

6. Submission and Acknowledgement: Once filed, an acknowledgement is generated by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) portal, confirming compliance.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Failing to file OPC annual returns on time can lead to severe penalties:

• Delay in AOC-4 Filing: ₹200 per day until the filing is completed.

• Delay in MGT-7A Filing: ₹200 per day until submission.

• Director Disqualification: Continuous default may lead to disqualification of the director.

• Additional Penalties: The company may face fines up to ₹1,00,000 and the officer-in-default may be fined up to ₹25,000.

Clearly, the cost of non-compliance is much higher than the cost of timely filing.

Documents Required for OPC Annual Return Filing

To file OPC annual returns, the following documents are typically required:

1. Balance sheet of the company.

2. Profit and loss account.

3. Cash flow statement (if applicable).

4. Board report (not mandatory but recommended for better governance).

5. Auditor’s report, if applicable.

6. Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) of the director.

Common Mistakes to Avoid During OPC Annual Return Filing

• Missing filing deadlines.

• Incorrect financial data entry.

• Filing under the wrong form (confusion between MGT-7 and MGT-7A).

• Ignoring professional certification requirements.

• Assuming OPCs have relaxed compliance (they don’t, except for AGM).

How Ebizfilling Helps with OPC Annual Return Filing

Handling annual compliance can be overwhelming, especially for entrepreneurs focused on growing their business. This is where Ebizfilling simplifies the process. Our team of compliance experts ensures:

• Accurate preparation of financial statements.

• On-time filing of AOC-4 and MGT-7A forms.

• Avoidance of penalties and late fees.

• End-to-end support from documentation to submission.

• Transparent pricing and hassle-free filing experience.

With Ebizfilling, OPC owners can be assured that their company stays compliant without the stress of navigating complex regulations.

Benefits of Partnering with Ebizfilling for OPC Compliance

• Expert Guidance: Professional support from experienced compliance specialists.

• Timely Reminders: Never miss a due date with proactive alerts.

• Affordable Services: Cost-effective packages designed for small business owners.

• End-to-End Solutions: From incorporation to compliance, everything under one roof.

• Peace of Mind: Focus on business growth while compliance is handled by experts.

Conclusion

Annual compliance is not optional—it’s a responsibility every company must take seriously. For One Person Companies, OPC annual return filing plays a critical role in maintaining legal status, financial transparency, and credibility. Missing deadlines can lead to heavy penalties and unnecessary legal hassles. By staying compliant, OPC owners not only protect their business but also prepare it for future growth and opportunities.

Ebizfiling India Private Limited is a trusted compliance and business solutions platform dedicated to simplifying legal, regulatory, and tax obligations for startups, small businesses, and growing enterprises.