Charity Commission Annual Return: Deadlines, Requirements & What Happens If You're Late

Charity Commission Annual Return: Everything You Need to Know

If you run a registered charity in England or Wales, you must file an annual return with the Charity Commission. This is separate from any Companies House filings (if your charity is also a limited company) and is often the one that gets forgotten.

What Is the Charity Annual Return?

The annual return is a form you submit to the Charity Commission that provides a snapshot of your charity's activities, finances, and governance. It ensures the public register of charities is accurate and up to date.

What Information Do You Need to Provide?

The annual return asks for:

• Financial details — income, expenditure, assets, and liabilities for the financial year
• Trustee information — names, dates of appointment, and any changes
• Activities — what your charity did during the year
• Serious incidents — any reportable events (fraud, data breaches, safeguarding issues)
• Governance — how the charity is managed and whether it follows the Charity Governance Code
• Overseas activities — if applicable
• Trading subsidiaries — if applicable

Charities With Income Over £25,000

If your charity's gross income exceeds £25,000, you must also submit your annual accounts and trustees' report. These must be independently examined or audited depending on your income level:

When Is the Annual Return Due?

Your annual return is due 10 months after the end of your financial year.

Example:

• Financial year ends: 31 March 2026
• Annual return due: 31 January 2027

The Charity Commission sends email reminders, but these often go to the main contact email — which may not be checked regularly.

How to File

1. Log in to the Charity Commission online service
2. Select your charity
3. Complete the annual return form