Filing Company Secretarial Information with the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA) in Singapore: A Comprehensive Guide
As a company incorporated in Singapore, it is mandatory to file company secretarial information with the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA) on a regular basis. This guide aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the requirements and procedures for filing company secretarial information with ACRA.
Why is Filing Company Secretarial Information Important?
Filing company secretarial information with ACRA is crucial for several reasons:
- To maintain the company’s good standing and compliance with Singapore’s Companies Act
- To ensure the accuracy and completeness of the company’s records
- To prevent any potential penalties or fines for non-compliance
- To facilitate the company’s financial transactions and business operations
What Information Needs to be Filed?
ACRA requires companies to file various documents and information on a regular basis, including:
- Annual Returns (Form C): This document is filed annually and provides information on the company’s share capital, directors, secretary, and registered office
- Changes to Company Information: This includes changes to the company’s name, address, directors, secretary, and share capital
- Notice of Change of Registered Office: This document is filed when the company changes its registered office
- Notice of Appointment of Director or Secretary: This document is filed when a new director or secretary is appointed
- Notice of Cessation of Director or Secretary: This document is filed when a director or secretary resigns or ceases to act
How to File Company Secretarial Information?
There are several ways to file company secretarial information with ACRA:
- Online Filing: Companies can file their documents and information online through the ACRA website
- Manual Filing: Companies can file their documents and information in person at the ACRA office
- Authorized Representative: Companies can appoint an authorized representative to file their documents and information on their behalf
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Failure to file company secretarial information with ACRA can result in penalties and fines, including:
- Fines ranging from SGD 100 to SGD 10,000
- Prosecution and imprisonment for non-compliance
- Loss of good standing and potential strike-off
Conclusion
Filing company secretarial information with ACRA is a critical aspect of maintaining a company’s good standing and compliance with Singapore’s Companies Act. It is essential for companies to ensure that they file the required documents and information on a timely basis to avoid penalties and fines. This guide has provided a comprehensive overview of the requirements and procedures for filing company secretarial information with ACRA. Companies should take the necessary steps to ensure compliance with ACRA’s requirements to maintain their good standing and reputation.
FAQs
Q: What is the deadline for filing Annual Returns (Form C) with ACRA?
A: The deadline for filing Annual Returns (Form C) with ACRA is within 42 days from the anniversary date of the company’s incorporation or the date of the last Annual General Meeting.
Q: What is the penalty for late filing of Annual Returns (Form C) with ACRA?
A: The penalty for late filing of Annual Returns (Form C) with ACRA is SGD 200.
Q: Can I appoint an authorized representative to file my company’s documents and information with ACRA?
A: Yes, companies can appoint an authorized representative to file their documents and information with ACRA. The authorized representative must be a director, secretary, or a person authorized by the company’s board of directors.
Q: How do I know if my company is in good standing with ACRA?
A: Companies can check their good standing with ACRA by logging onto the ACRA website and checking the company’s profile.
Q: What are the consequences of non-compliance with ACRA’s requirements?
A: Non-compliance with ACRA’s requirements can result in penalties and fines, prosecution and imprisonment, and loss of good standing and potential strike-off.
Q: Can I file my company’s documents and information with ACRA in person?
A: Yes, companies can file their documents and information with ACRA in person at the ACRA office.
Q: How do I access the ACRA online filing system?
A: Companies can access the ACRA online filing system by logging onto the ACRA website and following the online filing instructions.
