Understanding ROC Filings and Annual Compliance for Companies

Once a company is incorporated in India, the responsibility doesn’t end there. Regular legal compliance with the Registrar of Companies (ROC) under the Ministry of Corporate Affairs is essential to ensure your business remains active, trustworthy, and legally sound.

Failure to meet ROC requirements can lead to penalties, disqualification of directors, and even the strike-off of the company. For startups, small businesses, and established firms alike, understanding these filings is key to responsible corporate governance.

🏛️ Who Is the Registrar of Companies (ROC)?

The Registrar of Companies is the regulatory authority that oversees company registration, compliance, and administration as per the Companies Act, 2013. Every company registered in India—whether Private Limited, LLP, OPC, or Public Limited—must file specific documents and returns with the ROC annually.

📋 Common ROC Filings That Every Company Must Know

1. 

Form AOC-4

Used to file the financial statements of the company, including the Balance Sheet, Profit & Loss Account, Auditor’s Report, and Board’s Report.

🕒 Due Date: Within 30 days of the Annual General Meeting (AGM)

💸 Penalty for Non-Filing: ₹100 per day of delay

2. 

Form MGT-7

Used for filing the Annual Return, which includes details about the shareholders, shareholding structure, and other statutory information.

🕒 Due Date: Within 60 days of the AGM

💸 Penalty: ₹100 per day of delay

3. 

Form ADT-1

Used to intimate the ROC about the appointment or reappointment of auditors.

🕒 Due Date: Within 15 days of the AGM

💸 Consequence of Non-Filing: Auditor’s appointment may become invalid

4. 

Form DIR-3 KYC

Mandatory for all directors to file annually to verify and update their KYC details.

🕒 Due Date: 30th September every year

💸 Penalty: ₹5,000 if delayed

5. 

Form INC-20A (Commencement of Business)

Applicable to newly incorporated companies to declare commencement of business.

🕒 Due Date: Within 180 days of incorporation

💸 Consequence of Non-Filing: Company status marked as defaulting or inactive

6. 

Form DPT-3

Filed to declare outstanding loans or deposits taken by the company.

🕒 Due Date: 30th June every year

💸 Penalty: ₹5,000 and ₹500 per day of continuing default

⚖️ Importance of Staying Compliant

• Builds credibility and trust with banks, vendors, and clients

• Avoids legal action, penalties, and director disqualification

• Essential for raising investment or applying for tenders

• Ensures smooth operation and eligibility for government benefits

• Keeps your company legally “active” on the MCA portal

💼 Consequences of Non-Compliance

• Heavy late fees and penalties

• Directors may be disqualified for up to 5 years

• The company may be struck off from the register

• Legal action may be initiated by authorities or creditors

✅ Best Practices for Companies

• Maintain accurate and up-to-date books of accounts

• Conduct timely board and annual general meetings

• File all forms well before due dates

• Appoint a competent Company Secretary or legal advisor

• Set up compliance calendars and reminders

👨‍⚖️ Why Choose Barowalia & Associates

Staying compliant can feel overwhelming, especially for smaller companies or startups without in-house legal teams. At Barowalia & Associates, we assist businesses across Himachal Pradesh with:

• ✅ Preparing and filing all ROC forms

• ✅ Managing annual returns and financial disclosures

• ✅ Advising on secretarial practices and board meetings

• ✅ Preventing penalties through proactive planning

• ✅ Representing you in case of default or legal queries