This article is written for new business owners and company directors in Ireland who need to understand their legal obligations for filing annual returns with the CRO.
It is particularly relevant for those who have recently incorporated a company or are planning to do so.
Key Takeaways
The first annual return is due six months after incorporation with no financial statements required, while subsequent returns must include financial statements and are due annually.
Companies have a 56-day window to file their annual return once their Annual Return Date (ARD) is reached.
Late filing penalties begin at €100 and increase by €3 daily up to €1,200, with potential consequences including loss of audit exemption and company strike-off.
Financial statements must be dated no more than nine months before the return date for all returns after the first one.
Small companies are generally exempt from audit requirements, but losing this exemption due to late filing can result in additional costs of at least €2,000.
The first annual return is due exactly six months after incorporation, with a 56-day window to complete the filing. No financial statements are required for this initial return.
What happens if I miss the filing deadline?
You'll face an immediate €100 penalty, increasing by €3 daily up to €1,200. Two consecutive late filings result in loss of audit exemption for two years, and continued non-compliance may lead to company strike-off.
What documents need to be included with an annual return?
All returns except the first must include financial statements signed by a director and company secretary, company details including registered office address, director information, and share structure details.
How often do I need to file annual returns after the first one?
After the first return, all subsequent returns must be filed every 12 months from the previous return date, with financial statements included that are no more than nine months old.
What is the annual return in Ireland?
A mandatory statutory document filed with the CRO that provides key information about your company, including registered office address, directors, secretary details, and share structure. It serves as an official record of your company's status at a specific point each year.
When must an annual return be filed?
The first return is due six months after incorporation, with subsequent returns filed annually on your Annual Return Date (ARD). You have a 56-day window after your ARD to complete the filing.
What is the date of annual return?
The CRO assigns your Annual Return Date (ARD) at incorporation, set exactly six months after your incorporation date, and every year after that. This date remains fixed annually unless you request a change through the CRO.
Can I do my own annual return?
Yes, through the CRO's online portal (CORE). However, professional assistance is recommended due to complex requirements, especially for returns requiring financial statements, to avoid rejection and penalties.
Who needs to file annual return?
All Irish-registered companies must file annual returns, regardless of size, trading status, or structure.
