Filing an annual return is a crucial responsibility for corporations, ensuring compliance with legal requirements and maintaining good standing. Whether your corporation is registered in Ontario or under the Canada Corporations Act, understanding the specific requirements is essential.

In this post, we are only covering the annual return filing requirements for corporations incorporated in Ontario or federally, other provinces have similar requirements. Contact our office with any questions you may have.

Ontario Corporations

For Ontario corporations, the annual return is a mandatory filing that updates corporate details with the province. This requirement applies to all profit, professional, not-for-profit corporations, and charitable organizations. The annual return must be filed within six months of the corporation’s fiscal year end. Key information required includes:

• Corporation name
• Company key (required if incorporated after October 19, 2021, or if previously requested)
• Year of filing
• NAICS code
• Description of business activity
• Updated registered office address (if applicable)
• Updated corporate director and officer information (if applicable)
• Email address
• Name and position of the person authorizing the submission

Failure to file the annual return can lead to penalties, suspension, or even dissolution of the corporation.

Federal Corporations

Corporations incorporated under the Canada Corporations Act must also file an annual return with Corporations Canada. This filing is required within 60 days following the corporation’s anniversary date of incorporation, amalgamation, or continuation. The annual return for federal corporations includes:

• Corporation name
• Corporation key (mandatory for filing)
• Date of the last annual meeting
• Type of corporation (distributing or non-distributing)
• Information on individuals with significant control (ISC)

Not filing the annual return can result in administrative dissolution of the corporation.

How MMS Accounting Can Help

At MMS Accounting, we understand the complexities involved in filing annual returns and are here to assist you every step of the way. Our services include:

• Preparing and filing annual returns for both Ontario and federal corporations
• Assisting in obtaining a corporation key if you don’t already have one
• Ensuring all required information is accurate and up-to-date

Our team is dedicated to making the process seamless and stress-free, allowing you to focus on your business operations.

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