How to Pay CAC Annual Returns in Nigeria

If you are wondering how to pay CAC annual returns in Nigeria, here is the truth: you cannot pay or file CAC annual returns directly on your own. The Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) requires that all annual returns must be processed through an accredited agent.

Whether your business is registered as a business name, company, or incorporated trustee, filing annual returns is mandatory to keep your business active on the CAC register. Failure to file attracts penalties and may lead to your business being marked inactive.

The good news is that you don’t have to worry about the stress. As an accredited CAC agent, I can help you file and pay your CAC annual returns seamlessly.

Why You Cannot Pay CAC Annual Returns on Your Own

The CAC portal does not allow individual business owners to directly file annual returns. Instead, only accredited agents such as Chartered Accountants, Lawyers, or Chartered Secretaries can handle the process. This policy ensures that annual returns are filed correctly with the required documents.

Step-by-Step Process (Through an Accredited Agent)

Step 1: Provide Your Business Details

You will need to give your accredited agent (like us) the following information:

• CAC registration number
• Business name or company name
• The year(s) you want to file for

Step 2: Preparation of Required Documents

Depending on your business type, your accredited agent will prepare the necessary documents:

• Business Names → Statement of Affairs (if not yet in operation)
• Companies → Audited Financial Statements or Statement of Affairs
• Incorporated Trustees → Annual Report/Statement of Affairs

Step 3: Filing and Payment

Your accredited agent will:

1. Log in to the CAC portal using their accredited profile.
2. Generate the annual returns invoice.
3. Make payment online or via Remita at the bank.
4. Upload the required documents.
5. Submit the filing.

Step 4: CAC Confirmation

Once CAC approves the filing, your business status is updated to Active, and you will receive an Acknowledgment of Annual Return as proof.

Cost of CAC Annual Returns

The official CAC fees are:

• Business Names → ₦5,000 (late filing attracts ₦5,000 penalty)
• Companies → ₦5,000 – ₦200,000 depending on size (late filing attracts additional ₦5,000 – ₦10,000 penalty)
• Incorporated Trustees → ₦5,000 (late filing penalty ₦10,000)

Note: These are statutory fees. Professional service fees apply when engaging an accredited agent to handle the process.

Why Engage Us for CAC Annual Returns Filing

• We are CAC-accredited agents
• We ensure accurate filing with the right documents
• We help you avoid penalties
• We save you time and stress
• We assist with statement of affairs or audited accounts preparation when required

Conclusion

If you have been asking how to pay CAC annual returns, the answer is simple: you cannot do it directly on your own. The process must be done by an accredited CAC agent.

That’s where we come in. As accredited agents, we can help you file and pay your CAC annual returns quickly, correctly, and without stress. Contact us today and let’s keep your business compliant and active on the CAC register.