Companies Compliance Facilitation Scheme, 2026 (CCFS-2026)
One-time Opportunity for Condonation of Delay in Statutory Filings
1. Introduction
The Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA), vide General Circular No. 01/2026 dated 24th February 2026, has introduced the “Companies Compliance Facilitation Scheme, 2026” (CCFS-2026). This scheme aims to provide a one-time window for companies to regularize their pending annual filings and financial statements with significantly reduced additional fees.
2. Validity Period
• Effective Date: 15th April 2026.
• Closing Date: 15th July 2026.
3. Key Benefits and Fee Structure
The scheme provides a substantial reduction in the financial burden for defaulting companies:
• Annual Filings (MGT-7/AOC-4, etc.): Companies can complete pending filings by paying only 10% of the total additional fees normally payable for the delay.
• Dormancy (e-form MSC-1): Inactive companies can opt for “Dormant” status by paying only half of the normal filing fee.
• Closure (e-form STK-2): Companies wishing to be struck off the register can do so by paying only 25% of the applicable filing fees.
4. Immunity from Prosecution
• Penalties: No penalty shall be leviable for defaults under Section 92 (Annual Return) or Section 137 (Financial Statements) if filings are made under this scheme before the issuance of an adjudication notice or within 30 days of such notice.
• Past Defaults: Immunity is granted against prospective penal actions for delayed filings of relevant e-forms, provided no prosecution or adjudication was initiated before the filing under this scheme.
5. Applicability and Exclusions
The scheme applies to all companies, EXCEPT those:
• Against which a final notice for strike-off (u/s 248) has already been initiated.
• That have already applied for strike-off or dormant status prior to the scheme.
• Dissolved via amalgamation schemes.
• Categorized as “vanishing companies”.
6. Conclusion
This is a critical window for companies to clean up their compliance records. Once the scheme concludes on 15th July 2026, the Registrar of Companies (ROC) is directed to take necessary legal action against any companies remaining in default.