MCA Introduces 90% Waiver on Additional Fees for Pending ROC Filings – A Major Relief for Companies

 

ROC UPDATE

MCA Introduces 90% Waiver on Additional Fees for Pending ROC Filings – A Major Relief for Companies

📅 Date: 17th March 2026

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📝 Introduction

In a significant compliance relief measure, the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) has announced a special scheme providing substantial waiver on additional fees for delayed ROC filings. This initiative is a golden opportunity for companies that have defaulted in filing their statutory returns to regularize their compliance status at a reduced cost.

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🔍 What is the Scheme About?

The scheme offers a 90% waiver on additional (late) filing fees for certain ROC compliances. It is aimed at encouraging companies to clear their backlog and become compliant without the burden of heavy penalties.

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⚖️ Key Benefits Under the Scheme

✅ 1. 90% Waiver on Additional Fees

• Companies can file pending Annual Returns and Financial Statements

• Only 10% of the additional (late) fees needs to be paid

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✅ 2. Easy Exit for Defunct Companies

• Companies planning closure can apply for strike-off

• Only 25% of the normal filing fees for Form STK-2 is payable

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✅ 3. Benefit for Dormant Status

• Companies intending to remain inactive can apply for Dormant Status

• Filing fees reduced to 50% of the normal cost

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✅ 4. Immunity from Penalties & Prosecution

• Companies availing the scheme can avoid:

  • Heavy penalties

  • Legal actions against directors

  • Disqualification risks

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📅 Scheme Validity Period

The scheme is applicable from:

• Start Date: 15th April 2026

• End Date: 15th July 2026

⏳ This is a limited-time opportunity, after which strict action may be initiated against non-compliant companies.

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⚠️ Who Should Take Advantage?

This scheme is especially beneficial for:

• MSMEs with pending ROC filings

• Private Limited Companies with compliance defaults

• Startups that missed annual filing deadlines

• Companies planning to close operations

• Entities looking to shift to dormant status

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⚠️ Consequences of Not Availing the Scheme

Post the closure of this scheme:

• The Registrar of Companies (ROC) may initiate strict penal action

• Additional fees will continue at ₹100 per day without cap (as per applicable provisions)

• Directors may face disqualification and legal proceedings

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✅ Practical Action Steps

• Conduct a ROC compliance check immediately

• Identify pending forms such as:

  • AOC-4 (Financial Statements)

  • MGT-7 / MGT-7A (Annual Return)

• Calculate reduced fees under the scheme

• File pending returns well before the deadline

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📌 Conclusion

The MCA’s 90% waiver scheme presents a rare and valuable opportunity for companies to start fresh with full compliance at minimal cost. Businesses should act promptly to avoid future legal complications and financial penalties.