ACRA annual filing checklist for Singapore private companies

Short answer: Most Singapore private companies must keep proper accounting records, prepare financial statements, hold an annual general meeting (AGM) within six months after the financial year end (unless the AGM is dispensed with or an exemption applies), and file an annual return with ACRA within seven months after the financial year end.

Annual checklist

Confirm your financial year end (FYE). All the deadlines below run from it.
Keep accounting records up to date throughout the year, not only at year end.
Prepare financial statements that comply with the applicable accounting standards. Check whether your company needs an audit or qualifies for an audit exemption.
Hold the AGM within six months after FYE, or pass a resolution to dispense with it where permitted. Private companies that send financial statements to members within five months after FYE may also be exempt from holding an AGM.
File the annual return with ACRA within seven months after FYE. Depending on the company, financial statements may need to be filed in XBRL format or as a financial statements highlights template.
Update company information within the required timelines whenever directors, shareholders, addresses or business activities change during the year.
Keep the registers current, including the register of registrable controllers and the register of nominee directors.

Common reasons filings are missed

The financial year end was changed, but the compliance calendar was not updated
Bookkeeping was left until year end, delaying the financial statements
Directors are overseas and signatures are collected late
Nobody is clearly responsible for tracking ACRA dates

What happens if a deadline is missed?

Late lodgement can lead to penalties, and continued non-compliance can lead to further enforcement action against the company and its directors. If you have missed a deadline, act promptly: bring records up to date and file as soon as possible.

Who this applies to

This checklist is written for private companies limited by shares. Public companies, listed companies, dormant companies and companies with special exemptions may follow different rules.

Official sources

This article is general information based on requirements as understood at the date of review. Rules change, and individual circumstances differ. It is not legal, tax or accounting advice. Please check the official sources or contact us about your situation.