CAC Annual Returns Fee for Limited Company: 2026 Corporate Pricing

For the founder, a Limited Liability Company (Ltd) is a powerful vehicle for growth. However, with greater power comes greater responsibility. Maintaining your corporate status requires an annual filing with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC). Knowing the CAC annual returns fee for a limited company is a critical part of your corporate governance and financial planning in 2026.

In 2026, the fee structure is tiered based on the classification of your company. Here is the definitive guide to corporate compliance pricing.

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🏗️ 1. The Tiered Fee Structure

In 2026, the CAC classifies companies into categories based on their turnover and share capital.

• Small Company: (Usually those with 1,000,000 shares or less).

• The Filing Fee: ₦5,000 per year.

• Medium/Large Company: (Higher share capital or turnover).

• The Filing Fee: ₦20,000 per year.

• Public Company (PLC):

• The Filing Fee: ₦25,000 per year.

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⚡ 2. The "Penalty" Factor (Late Filing)

The CAC annual returns fee for a limited company becomes significantly higher if you miss the deadline (June 30th).

• Small Company Penalty: ₦5,000 (Total late filing: ₦20,000).
• Medium/Large Company Penalty: ₦20,000 (Total late filing: ₦20,000).
• Public Company Penalty: ₦25,000 (Total late filing: ₦50,000).

Note: These penalties apply per year missed. If your company has been neglected for five years, the total cost can easily exceed ₦50,000 - ₦250,000.

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📋 3. Associated Professional Costs

Unlike a Business Name, filing for a Limited Company is an administrative task.

1. Financial Statement Drafting: Even small companies must provide a basic Statement of Affairs. If your company is large, you may need a Chartered Accountant to audit your books, adding a professional fee to your budget.
2. Agent Filing Fees: Most companies use an Accredited Agent to handle the portal. Service fees typically range from ₦20,000 to ₦50,000 depending on the complexity of your board structure.
3. Remita Charges: A standard convenience fee of ₦162 applies to every portal payment.

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📝 4. Why This is Your Most Important Budget Item

While ₦5,000 may seem like a small fee, its impact is massive. In 2026, an "Active" status:

• Enables Banking: Banks will not process loans or international transfers for "Inactive" companies.
• Protects Directors: Prevents the corporate veil from being pierced due to administrative neglect.
• Facilitates Mergers: No investor will buy shares in a company that isn't up-to-date with its CAC filings.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Has the fee changed for 2026?

The base fees have remained stable, but the CAC has increased the enforcement of penalties.

2. Is there a discount for dormant companies?

No. Even if you didn't trade, you must pay the full filing fee to keep the entity alive.

3. Can I pay for multiple years at once?

Yes. The portal allows you to pay for all outstanding years in one session, though you must file them one by one.

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Secure Your Corporate Integrity Today

Filing on time is the way to manage your corporate overhead. Don't let late fees drain your capital. Our experts provide compliance management for Limited Companies, ensuring your returns are filed accurately and your status remains "Active" every year.

👉 Chat with an Accredited CAC Expert on WhatsApp