Calabar, the capital of Cross River State, is a thriving commercial hub known for its tourism, trade, and service industries. Every registered business and company operating in Calabar is legally required to file annual returns with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC).
Failure to file annual returns can result in financial penalties and possible business deregistration. This article explains how businesses in Calabar can file their annual returns through an accredited CAC agent, the costs involved, penalties for late filing, and why compliance is important.
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Understanding CAC Annual Returns for Businesses in Calabar
Many business owners mistakenly assume that filing tax returns with the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) or the Cross River State Internal Revenue Service (CRIRS) is enough. However, CAC annual returns are separate from tax filings and must be submitted annually to maintain a business’s legal status.
Key Differences:
FIRS/CRIRS tax returns focus on tax obligations.
CAC annual returns confirm a business’s legal existence and compliance with CAC regulations.
Failure to file CAC annual returns can lead to financial penalties and possible business deregistration.
What Are CAC Annual Returns?
Annual returns are mandatory yearly filings that allow CAC to keep accurate records of businesses in Nigeria.
Important Points to Note:
A business must file annual returns every year after its first 18 months of registration.
Only CAC-accredited agents can file annual returns—business owners cannot file directly.
Failure to file leads to penalties and possible deregistration.
Why Businesses in Calabar Must File Annual Returns
Legal Compliance: Ensures the business remains active in CAC records.
Avoidance of Late Penalties: Reduces unnecessary financial costs.
Business Credibility: Banks, investors, and clients check CAC records before engaging with a company.
Uninterrupted Business Operations: Non-compliance may cause restrictions in making changes or obtaining CAC documents.
How to File Annual Returns in Calabar
Since only CAC accredited agents can process annual returns, businesses in Calabar should follow these steps:
- Hire a CAC Accredited Agent
Choose a licensed CAC agent, such as cacannualreturns.com, for smooth and fast filing.
- Provide Required Business Information
Business Name or Company Name
CAC Registration Number
Updated business details
Financial records (for companies only)
- Pay the Filing Fees
Business Name: ₦3,000 (Late penalty: ₦5,000)
Limited Liability Company: ₦5,000+ depending on share capital (Late penalty: ₦5,000 per year of default)
Accredited Agent’s Processing Fee: ₦5,000
- Submission and Confirmation
The accredited agent submits the filing to CAC.
CAC updates the business’s compliance status and provides confirmation.
Challenges Businesses Face When Filing Annual Returns in Calabar
Lack of Awareness: Many business owners do not realize that CAC annual returns are mandatory.
Portal Issues: CAC’s online platform sometimes experiences delays.
Incorrect Business Records: Errors in business registration details can cause processing delays.
Accumulated Penalties: Businesses that miss multiple years must pay penalties for each year before their records can be updated.
How to Avoid Late Filing Penalties
File Early: Submit your annual returns before the deadline.
Use a CAC-Accredited Agent: Professionals ensure the process is completed correctly and on time.
Keep Business Records Updated: Ensure CAC has the correct business details to prevent processing delays.
Where to Get Assistance for Filing Annual Returns in Calabar
CAC Office in Cross River State: Business owners can visit the nearest CAC office for inquiries.
Accredited CAC Agents: Filing through an accredited agent ensures quick and error-free processing.
Online Services: Visit cacannualreturns.com for professional assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I file my annual returns myself?
No, only CAC-accredited agents are authorized to file annual returns.
Q: What happens if I don’t file my annual returns?
Failure to file results in financial penalties and possible business deregistration.
Q: How much does it cost to file annual returns in Calabar?
Business Name: ₦3,000 (late penalty: ₦5,000).
Limited Liability Company: ₦5,000+ (late penalty: ₦5,000 per year of default).
CAC Agent Processing Fee: ₦5,000.
Q: Can I still file if I have missed multiple years?
Yes, but you must pay penalties for each missed year before your business status can be updated.
Conclusion
Filing annual returns is a legal requirement for businesses in Calabar. To avoid penalties and maintain compliance, business owners should file their annual returns on time through an accredited CAC agent.
Need help with filing? Visit cacannualreturns.com today for expert assistance.
Adebayo Oluwole is a seasoned chartered accountant and a member of Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria with over twenty years of experience. His expertise cuts across accounting, auditing and taxation. He has helped hundreds of individuals translate their dreams into reality by offering them pre and post registration services. His focus is to help SMEs grow in the marketplace.