LLexiSA

Company Law

Company Registration and CIPC

Registering a private company ((Pty) Ltd) through the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC) is inexpensive and can be done online. The Companies Act 71 of 2008 governs incorporation, director duties, and ongoing compliance such as annual returns.

Key facts

  • A private company needs at least one director and one incorporator; no minimum capital.
  • Registration costs from R125 (R175 with a name reservation) via CIPC eServices or BizPortal.
  • Annual returns must be filed with CIPC each year — failure leads to deregistration.
  • Directors owe fiduciary duties and a duty of care codified in s 76; reckless trading is prohibited (s 22).
  • B-BBEE, SARS registration (income tax, VAT, PAYE) and UIF/SDL registration follow incorporation.

The law that applies

  • Companies Act 71 of 2008 — ss 11–14, 22, 30, 66, 76

Practical steps

  1. Reserve a company name (optional) on CIPC eServices.
  2. File the incorporation documents (CoR 14.1/15.1) with certified director IDs.
  3. Register with SARS, UIF and COIDA as employer obligations arise.
  4. Diarise annual return filing to keep the company in good standing.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need an accountant or lawyer to register a company?

No. CIPC's BizPortal (bizportal.gov.za) lets you register a company, open a bank account, and register for tax and UIF in one online flow. Professional help becomes valuable for shareholder agreements and MOI customisation.

How does this apply to your situation?

Ask LexiSA. It will gather your facts, apply the law above, and give you a cited assessment of your position — free.

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This guide is legal information, not legal advice, and may not reflect amendments after its last review. For advice on your specific circumstances, consult a practising attorney.