Running a startup without compliances is like driving a Ferrari without brakes — thrilling, until it

Here’s a comprehensive list of yearly compliances that Indian startups should stay clear and updated with, especially if they are registered as a Private Limited Company and/or Startup India recognized:

A. Company Law (MCA) Compliances

- Form MGT-7 – Annual Return to ROC

- Form AOC-4 – Filing of Financial Statements

- DIR-3 KYC – Director KYC Filing

- MBP-1 & DIR-8 – Disclosure of Interest by Directors

- Board Meetings – Minimum 4 board meetings annually (with minutes)

- Annual General Meeting (AGM) – Mandatory if company has shareholders

- Form DPT-3 – Return of Deposits

- Form MSME-1 – Half-yearly return for outstanding dues to MSMEs

B. Income Tax & Financial Compliances

- Income Tax Return (ITR) – Annual filing for the company

- Tax Audit Report (if applicable) – Form 3CA/3CB & 3CD

- Form 26AS Reconciliation – To match TDS credits and other payments

- Advance Tax Payments – Quarterly if applicable

C. GST Compliances

- GSTR-3B – Monthly or quarterly return

- GSTR-1 – Monthly or quarterly sales return

- GST Annual Return (GSTR-9) – If applicable (based on turnover)

- GST Audit (GSTR-9C) – If turnover exceeds ₹5 crore

D. TDS / TCS & Payroll Compliances

- Quarterly TDS Returns (Form 24Q/26Q)

- Form 16 / 16A – Issuance to employees/vendors

- EPF/ESIC Filings – If applicable based on employee count

- Professional Tax Returns – In states where applicable

E. Startup India / DPIIT Recognized Startups

- Maintain Valid Certificate of Recognition

- File Annual Progress Report (if required by DPIIT)

- Comply with Tax Exemption Conditions (if availed) – Sec 80-IAC / Angel Tax

F. Optional but Recommended

- ESOP Register & Filings – If startup offers employee stock options

- Internal Audit or Process Review – Especially for funded startups

- Data Privacy & IT Compliance Review – If handling user data