Requesting an extension to file an annual return

Ask for more time to file your annual return

If you're unable to file your company's annual return by the due date, you can apply for a time extension. If granted, you have an extra 20 working days from the date the extension is granted to file your annual return.

Authority to request a time extension

To request a time extension to file your company's annual return, you must have:

  • a RealMe® login
  • an online services account with the Companies Register
  • authority to act for your company.

Setting up your online services account

Getting authority to update company details

Request an extension

To request an extension, log in to your online services account, enter the company name, company number or New Zealand Business Number (NZBN) and follow these steps.

  1. Select the Apply for an annual return time extension link.
  2. In the Applicant field, indicate whether you're applying on behalf of someone else or for yourself.
  3. In the Comments field, write a detailed description of why you need an extension to file your annual return.
  4. In the Supporting documentation field, select the Browse or Choose file button to upload any supporting documents.
  5. Select the Submit button to lodge your request for an extension.
  6. In the Support document preview window select Save to Continue, and Ok to confirm.
Apply for an annual return time extension

If your request for a time extension is approved

If your request is approved, we send an email confirming:

  • an extension has been granted, and
  • the new date by which your annual return must be filed.

All help topics

Before you start a company 5 guides

Get an overview of how companies are structured, find out about the company records you need to keep, and what's involved when you incorporate with and report to the Companies Office.

Starting a company 12 guides

You need to comply with New Zealand laws when you incorporate your company with the Companies Office, including reserving a company name, appointing directors, issuing shares and registering for tax.

Keeping company details up to date 12 guides

Once your company is registered with the Companies Office, nominate who will have authority to file your annual returns, and update your name, address, constitution, director and shareholder details.

Shares and shareholders 7 guides

When you incorporate, you must provide details of all company shares and shareholders. As changes occur, you must update this information on your own share register and in your company's annual return.

Company directors 8 guides

Directors have responsibilities to their company and shareholders, and under the Companies Act 1993. You must register all your directors with the Companies Office and they must sign a consent form.​

Filing annual returns 7 guides

Find out about filing an annual return — the information you need to update, how to change your filing month or request a time extension — and what happens if you don't file your annual return by the due date.

Complying with the law 11 guides

Find out how New Zealand law affects the directors and shareholders of your company, and your responsibility to create and maintain accurate company records, report to us and file financial statements.

Financial reporting 7 guides

​Some large New Zealand and overseas companies, and all Financial Markets Conduct reporting entities must submit audited annual financial statements to the Companies Office.

Managing an overseas company in New Zealand 11 guides

Before they can carry out some business activities, companies incorporated in other countries, including Australia, must register with the Companies Office and then keep their company details up to date.

Closing a company 11 guides

When your company closes down you need to remove it from the register. Your company can be removed if it amalgamates with another company or doesn't file its annual return.

Restoring a company to the register 4 guides

Only some companies can be reinstated to the Companies Register once they've been removed. Find out who can apply, what evidence to provide and if you should apply to the Registrar or the High Court.

When your company fails 10 guides

Find out about voluntary administration, receivership and liquidation (external administration), and the roles and responsibilities of those appointed to manage your company's affairs.

Managing your online account 9 guides

Creating an account with the Companies Office allows you to complete the majority of your transactions online. It's free to set up, but fees apply for some transactions, such as filing annual returns.

Getting support to use the Companies Register 5 guides

Get help with any technical problems you have using the register, such as uploading documents or searching for companies, directors and shareholders.

Searching 1 guide

Intro