As the startup ecosystem continues to flourish, the One Person Company (OPC) model has become a popular choice for solo entrepreneurs in India. Offering the flexibility of a private limited company with fewer compliance burdens, OPC is ideal for individuals looking to run a business on their own. However, despite its simplicity, an OPC must still meet certain legal compliance requirements — one of the most important being the OPC annual return.

Let’s break down what an OPC annual return is, why it matters, and how you can ensure smooth and timely filing to avoid penalties or legal issues.

What is an OPC Annual Return and Why Is It Mandatory?

An OPC annual return is a mandatory compliance filing with the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA), which gives a yearly overview of the company’s financials, shareholding structure, and activities. While OPCs are exempt from holding Annual General Meetings (AGMs), they are not exempt from filing their annual returns and financial statements.

According to the Companies Act, 2013, an OPC must file two major forms each financial year:

1. Form AOC-4 – for submission of the financial statements, including the Balance Sheet and Profit & Loss Account.

2. Form MGT-7A – for the annual return of the company (specific to OPCs and small companies).

At ebizfiling, we help OPC owners stay ahead of deadlines and make sure the process is smooth and error-free, avoiding last-minute stress or penalties.

Due Dates for Filing OPC Annual Return

Here are the important due dates that OPC owners should keep in mind:

• AOC-4: Within 180 days from the end of the financial year (i.e., by 27th September for FY ending 31st March).

• MGT-7A: Within 60 days from the date of AGM. Since OPCs are exempt from holding AGMs, this is interpreted as 60 days from the end of financial year (i.e., by 29th May for FY ending 31st March).

Missing these deadlines may result in heavy penalties, which can go up to ₹100 per day per form.

Step-by-Step Process to File OPC Annual Return

1. Preparation of Financial Statements: OPC must prepare its financial documents such as balance sheet, statement of profit and loss, cash flow statement (if applicable), and notes to accounts.

2. Form AOC-4 Filing:

• Get the financials signed by the director and a practicing professional (CA/CS).

• File Form AOC-4 online on the MCA portal.

1. Form MGT-7A Filing:

• Prepare the annual return with company details like capital structure, shareholder info, and management details.

• Upload and file it online after validation.

At ebizfiling, our expert team takes care of documentation, preparation, and timely submission of these forms to ensure your OPC stays compliant without any hassle.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Filing after the due date attracts hefty late fees and penalties:

• ₹100 per day of delay per form.

• Additional penalties may apply to the company and directors, which could range from ₹50,000 to ₹5,00,000 in severe cases.

Hence, it’s always advisable to file on time and consult professionals like ebizfiling for proper guidance and execution.

Why Choose Ebizfiling for Your OPC Annual Compliance?

• ✅ Experienced professionals who handle everything from documentation to form submission.

• ✅ Timely reminders so you never miss a deadline.

• ✅ Affordable pricing and packages suited to small business needs.

• ✅ Transparent process with zero hidden fees.

Thousands of businesses trust ebizfiling to manage their compliance needs with speed, accuracy, and reliability.

Final Thoughts

An OPC annual return might sound like a routine filing task, but it plays a crucial role in maintaining your company’s legal standing and avoiding fines. Staying compliant is not just a responsibility—it’s also a sign of a well-managed business. Whether you’re a first-time OPC owner or an experienced entrepreneur, timely filing with the right professional help can save you time, money, and stress.