ROC compliances are a fundamental part of running a company legally in India. Every business registered under the Companies Act must follow strict rules set by the Registrar of Companies (ROC) to maintain transparency and legitimacy. Whether you operate a startup, a Small or Medium Enterprise (SME), or a large corporation, understanding and fulfilling ROC compliances is critical to avoid penalties, legal issues, and reputational damage. In this 2025 updated guide, we explain everything you need to know about ROC compliances — from what they are, who needs to comply, the important forms, deadlines, common errors, benefits, penalties, and how you can file them efficiently. This comprehensive article aims to equip you with clear knowledge so your company can stay compliant and leverage the many advantages that come with proper ROC filings. Every business registered under the Companies Act must follow strict rules set by the Registrar of Companies (ROC) to maintain transparency and legitimacy. ROC compliance refers to the mandatory filing of specific documents and returns with the Registrar of Companies (ROC), which operates under the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA), Government of India. This regulatory framework applies to all types of companies including Private Limited Companies, Public Limited Companies, Limited Liability Partnerships (LLPs), One Person Companies (OPCs), and others. The purpose of ROC compliance is to ensure that companies operate transparently and are accountable to their shareholders, creditors, and the government. These filings provide updated information on a company’s financial health, management structure, changes in directors, share allotments, and more. Adhering to these requirements is not just a legal obligation but a marker of good corporate governance, fostering trust with stakeholders. Alongside these filings, many companies consider trademark and logo registration to establish brand ownership and prevent misuse. The requirement to follow ROC compliances extends to a wide range of company types registered in India. It is essential for: Private Limited Companies: The most common business entity type, especially for startups and SMEs. Limited Liability Partnerships (LLPs): Combines the benefits of partnership and limited liability. One Person Companies (OPC): A single individual owned company structure. Public Limited Companies: Companies with publicly traded shares. Nidhi Companies: Entities that operate mutual benefit funds for their members. Section 8 Companies: Non-profit organizations formed for promoting arts, charity, or social welfare. Every one of these entities must comply with ROC filings on time and accurately. Ignoring ROC compliance requirements can lead to heavy fines, legal scrutiny, and even company deregistration. Startups and regional businesses often explore trademark registration in Noida, Delhi, or Jaipur as they scale operations. ROC compliances generally fall under two main categories: Annual Filings and Event-Based Filings. Companies must file the following key annual documents with the ROC: MGT-7: The Annual Return, which details the company’s shareholders, directors, and shareholding patterns. It must be filed within 60 days from the Annual General Meeting (AGM). AOC-4: The Financial Statements including the Balance Sheet, Profit & Loss Account, and other financial disclosures. This must be submitted within 30 days from the AGM. ADT-1: The Appointment of Auditors, which needs to be filed within 15 days of the AGM when auditors are appointed or re-appointed. These filings must be made within specific timeframes after certain corporate events occur: DIR-12: Reporting any changes in the company’s directors or key managerial personnel. The deadline is within 30 days of the change. PAS-3: Filing for the allotment of shares to new shareholders, to be done within 30 days of allotment. INC-22: Reporting a change in the company’s registered office address within 15 days of the change. MGT-14: Submission of Board Resolutions passed by the company, required within 30 days of passing the resolution. Adhering to these filings is crucial for maintaining updated records with the ROC and avoiding penalties. To help you stay on track, here is a simple compliance calendar with deadlines and penalties: Annual Return (MGT-7): Due within 60 days of the AGM. Financial Statements (AOC-4): Due within 30 days of the AGM. Director Changes (DIR-12): Due within 30 days of the change. Share Allotment (PAS-3): Due within 30 days of allotment. Late filings attract significant fines, and prolonged delays may trigger further legal action or disqualification of directors. Many companies fail in their ROC compliances due to avoidable errors such as: Missing Deadlines: Not tracking due dates is the most common cause of late filings. Incorrect Forms: Submitting outdated or incorrect forms causes rejections and delays. Ignoring MCA Notifications: Companies often overlook reminder emails sent by MCA, leading to missed deadlines. Not Updating Board Resolutions: Failure to file updated board decisions and changes timely. Incomplete Documentation: Missing signatures, digital signatures, or supporting documents can cause filing errors. Avoiding these common pitfalls by using compliance calendars, professional help, or software can save you from penalties and legal hassles. Maintaining consistent ROC compliances provides several important benefits for your company: Legal Protection: Compliant companies avoid penalties, fines, and legal actions that could jeopardize operations. Credibility: Timely compliance builds trust with investors, banks, and lenders, improving your chances for funding and loans. Improved MCA Compliance Score: Companies with a clean ROC record are seen as trustworthy and transparent. Access to Government Tenders and Subsidies: Many government projects and subsidies require companies to have up-to-date compliance. Corporate Governance: Good compliance reflects well on your company’s management and promotes responsible business practices. ROC compliance is not just a legal formality but a strategic advantage for business growth and reputation. Non-compliance with ROC filing requirements can result in severe consequences, including: Monetary Fines: Companies and their directors may face substantial fines for late or non-filing. Director Disqualification: Under Section 164 of the Companies Act, directors can be disqualified for non-compliance, preventing them from holding director positions for five years. Legal Proceedings: Persistent non-compliance can lead to prosecution, resulting in heavier penalties or imprisonment in extreme cases. Company Strike-Off: The ROC can initiate removal of the company from the register, effectively dissolving the entity. Such penalties underscore the importance of regular and accurate ROC compliance filings. Different company types have specific ROC compliance requirements: Private Limited Company: Must file annual returns (MGT-7), financial statements (AOC-4), and director changes (DIR-12). Limited Liability Partnership (LLP): Required to file Form 8 (Annual Return) and Form 11 (Statement of Accounts and Solvency). One Person Company (OPC): Has a simpler compliance structure but still must file annual returns and financial statements timely. Understanding your company type’s specific obligations will help streamline compliance processes. Filing ROC compliances involves the following steps: Collect Documents: Gather financial statements, board resolutions, director details, share allotment data, and other required records. Prepare Resolutions: Draft and approve necessary board resolutions where applicable for filings like auditor appointments or share allotments. Use MCA Portal: Log in to the official MCA21 portal using your company credentials to submit the required forms online. Digital Signature: Ensure authorized signatories have a valid Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) to authenticate submissions. Many companies also use third-party software or hire consultants to simplify and speed up the process While filing ROC compliances yourself (DIY) is possible, consider the pros and cons: DIY Pros: Lower cost Gaining hands-on knowledge of compliance requirements DIY Cons: Complex and technical forms may lead to mistakes Time-consuming, requiring detailed understanding of legal norms Risk of penalties if filings are incorrect or late Hiring a Consultant Pros: Expertise ensures accuracy and timely filing Saves time and reduces stress Assistance with complex queries and compliance updates For most companies, especially startups and SMEs, outsourcing ROC compliances to professionals like MyCompanywala reduces risk and allows focus on core business activities. You will incur penalties starting from ₹100 per day, which can accumulate up to ₹5,00,000. Continued delays may lead to legal consequences. Yes, dormant companies must file simplified annual returns to maintain their status and avoid penalties. Certain forms allow rectification within a limited time. Otherwise, you may need to file additional correction documents. Key documents include audited financial statements, board resolutions, director information, share certificates, and DSCs. Yes, annual ROC compliances are mandatory regardless of whether your company has conducted business or not. Penalties include heavy fines, director disqualification, legal prosecution, and potential company strike-off. Yes, directors can file, but it requires knowledge of the process and valid digital signatures. You can check the status on the MCA website using your company’s CIN (Corporate Identification Number).What Is ROC Compliance?
Who Needs ROC Compliance?
Key ROC Compliances in India
Annual Filings
Event-Based Filings
ROC Compliance Calendar (2025)
Penalty: ₹100 per day of delay, up to ₹5,00,000.
Penalty: ₹100 per day of delay, up to ₹5,00,000.
Penalty: ₹5,000 plus ₹500 per day delay.
Penalty: ₹5,000 plus ₹500 per day delay.Common Mistakes in ROC Compliance
Benefits of ROC Compliance
Penalties for Non-Compliance
ROC Compliance for Different Company Types
How to File ROC Compliance in India?
Do You Need a Consultant or Can You DIY?
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. What happens if I miss the ROC filing deadline?
Q2. Are ROC filings mandatory even if my company is dormant?
Q3. Can I correct mistakes after submitting ROC filings?
Q4. What documents do I need to file ROC compliances?
Q5. Is ROC compliance required every year?
Q6. What are the penalties for non-compliance?
Q7. Can a director file ROC compliances personally?
Q8. How can I check if my company’s ROC filings are up-to-date?
Thanks for your services. The Vishal and his team is really professional. They make sure that things are delivered in time. The best part about My Companywala is the consultative approach and guiding us on all our business matters.
Great Service in affordable package.. Thanks for explaining the entire process of company registration initially..Now i have very clear idea about company.. paid the amount immediately after the explanation given.. My company is registered and thanks for clearing my doubts after registration as well....service was excellent.
Truly Professionalism .. Never expected that online procedure is so easy.. I have at first idea if going to exceptionally rushed process But I altered up my opinion to give an attempt with Mycompanywala...my Company is enrolled extremely fast....they still in contact with me. Continually illuminating my questions.. Much obliged for all you help
It was decent involvement with My Companywala for convenient work also extraordinary help and guidance to begin my business...Great benefits in opportune way and subsequent meet-ups for return recording to spare my money...Thanks Again
Copyright © 2018 MYCOMPANYWALA all right reserved.