Ontario Annual Return: Deadlines, Filing Steps and Penalties

Understanding the Ontario Annual Information Return

Every business corporation incorporated or registered in Ontario is legally required to file an Annual Information Return to keep its corporate registry information up to date.

Filing is handled directly through the Ontario Business Registry (OBR).

Key Filing Deadlines

Filing Window: Due within six (6) months following the end of your corporation's fiscal year.
Filing Fee: $0 CAD when filed online through the OBR portal.
Required Details: Verification of registered office address, current directors, and active officers.

What Happens If You Do Not File?

Failing to maintain annual compliance has severe consequences:

Notice of Default: The Ministry of Public and Business Service Delivery will issue a statutory notice of non-compliance.
Administrative Dissolution: If the default is not cured, the corporation will be formally dissolved by the Crown.
Asset Forfeiture: Corporate bank accounts will be frozen and corporate assets can escheat to the provincial government.

Next Steps

Access our dedicated Ontario Annual Returns Hub.
Learn how to retrieve your corporate credentials on our Company Key Guide.
Check your overall business standing on our Compliance Guide.

Frequently asked questions

When is the Ontario Annual Information Return due?

The Ontario Annual Return is due within six months of your corporation's fiscal year end date.

How much does it cost to file an Ontario Annual Return?

There is no government fee ($0) when filed directly online through the Ontario Business Registry (OBR).

What happens if an Ontario corporation fails to file its annual return?

Failure to file can lead to the Ministry issuing a default notice, and ultimately to administrative dissolution, resulting in the cancellation of the corporate charter.