Update your settings

If you’ve already registered Annual Compliance for LLPs in India, wonderful! You have selected a business structure that provides the right balance of flexibility, legal protection, and ease of operation. Limited Liability Partnership (LLP) has the benefits of a normal partnership while possessing the limited liability features of a private limited company. 

However, one of the most undervalued things after setting up your LLP is annual compliance. Many business owners fall into the trap that once your LLP is set up and active, the remaining paperwork is done. This could not be further from the truth. 

Why Is Annual Compliance Important for LLPs? 

Annual compliance is not just about clearing and ticking legal boxes. It is also about keeping your business in good standing with the government, and avoiding legal disputes in the future. 

• Keeping compliant means: 

• Your LLP is legally active or registered 

• Lending confidence and credibility to you in the eyes of investors, banks, and clients. 

• Avoiding fines and costs, which could turn into thousands of dollars each year. 

• Easier growth, fundraising, and easier to apply to tenders and grants. 

Even if your LLP has not traded any business during the financial year, you are still required to comply with your LLP filing. This is something that catches many first-time LLP owners off guard. 

Required Annual Compliance for LLPs in India

Here is a basic step-by-step view of what needs to be filed for each financial year: 

1. Form 11 - Annual Return of LLP 

What is it? Form 11 is a summary of your LLP Partners and all changes in the year, but it will not include financial information. Form 11 is compulsory for every LLP, whether it is active or inactive. 

Due Date: On or before 30 May every year. Penalty for Late Submission: ₹100 for every day, which is perpetual. 

Tip: Form 11 has to be submitted even if your LLP was non-operational, and it will keep you compliant. 

2. Form 8 - Statement of Account and Solvency 

What is it? 

This form represents your LLP's financial position, as well as a declaration of the company's solvency and the ability to pay all the company's debts. This form must be digitally signed by the designated partners of your LLP and has to be either certified by a practising Chartered Accountant (CA), Chartered Secretary (CS), or Cost and Management Accountant (CMA).

Due Date: On or before 30 October every year. Penalty for Late Submission: ₹100 for every day, which is perpetual. 

Tip: Keep your books updated throughout the year to avoid last-minute capture and errors.  

3. Income Tax Return (ITR-5)

What is it?

Every LLP has to file an income tax return using Form ITR-5, regardless of whether you have income or activity. If your turnover exceeds ₹1 crore (or ₹50 lakh in certain professions), a tax audit is required.

DUE DATES

Without audit: July 31

With audit: October 31

Note: You must file your ITR (even if you have zero income), so don't forget, as you could end up with penalties and the Income Tax Department may take action against you.

What Will Happen If I Don't Comply?

You may be tempted to ignore or avoid your annual compliance, but there are consequences:

1. Severe Penalties: ₹100 per day for every day your forms are overdue can quickly add up to ₹10,000 +.

2. Disqualification of Partner status: Non-compliance can mean the designated partner's disqualification to be a partner of other companies.

3. Strike-off action by ROC: The Registrar of Companies (RoC) may strike your LLP from the register if it is inactive or non-compliant.

4. Legal implications: You may find it difficult to get loans, be able to tender, sell your business, etc.

How to Remain Compliant Without the Headache

✅ Maintain accurate financial records

We recommend that you implement good accounting software or use a professional to track your financials from the first day of operations. This entails compliance filings being faster, easier, and more accurate.

✅ Keep key dates marked in your calendar

Filing dates can be pricey if you miss them. For instance, dates such as the 30th of May (Form 11), 30th of October (Form 8), 31st of July, or 31st of October (ITR).

✅ Seek a professional compliance partner

Don’t let compliance slow you down in your business journey. Platforms like kanakkupillai.com offer a variety of compliance services—specifically, "compliance" meaning that they will do everything—from preparing and filing your documentations, to driving your compliance. Once this is settled, you can focus on what matters; making your business grow.

Final Points

An Annual Compliance for LLPs structure gives you the enjoyment and flexibility that can only be dreamed of by other entrepreneurs. With enjoyment and freedom comes duty. Annual compliance is not just a law—it's to safeguard your business to build credibility, and avoid problems in the future. 

If compliance is done right and on time, then this is one more item done and you can focus on managing your business with confidence and to innovate, grow, and ultimately enjoy your success. 

If there ever is a feeling of being overwhelmed to have a compliance partner who can support you in complying and maintaining your LLP, that will be done for you every year.