Financial Statements for Close Corporations in South Africa
Last updated: 2026-03-19
Close Corporations have specific financial statement obligations under the Close Corporations Act 69 of 1984, which are slightly different from PTY Ltd requirements under the Companies Act. The CC Act requires that "accounting records" are kept that fairly represent the state of affairs and business of the CC, and that annual financial statements are prepared.
However, the audit and review thresholds that apply to PTY Ltd companies (based on Public Interest Score) also apply to CCs through the Companies Act amendments. In practice, most CCs are small enough that they fall below the audit and review thresholds, meaning their financial statements do not need to be audited or independently reviewed.
An important distinction for CCs is that members have a direct fiduciary duty to keep accounting records and ensure financial statements are prepared. Unlike a PTY Ltd where this duty falls on directors (who may be different from shareholders), in a CC every member shares this responsibility. If any member suspects financial irregularities, they can demand a review of the CC's financial affairs.
Key Requirements
- Accounting records that fairly represent the CC affairs
- Annual financial statements prepared
- Audit/review based on same PI Score thresholds as PTY Ltd
- Members personally responsible for record-keeping compliance
- Records retained for minimum of 7 years
Important Deadlines
- Financial statements: within 9 months of financial year-end (CC Act)
- Records available for member inspection at any time
Fees & Costs
- Compilation of financial statementsR3,000โR15,000
- Independent review (if required)R8,000โR30,000
- Accounting softwareR300โR1,500/month
Non-Compliance Penalties
- Failure to keep records: member offence under CC Act
- Personal liability for members who fail in their duties
- SARS may estimate income if records are inadequate
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a CC need an audit?
Who is responsible for CC financial records?
Can a CC use the same accounting framework as a PTY Ltd?
Related Calculators
More Close Corporation (CC) Guides
Registration
Close Corporation (CC) Registration in South Africa โ What You Need to Know
Annual Returns
Annual Returns for Close Corporations (CC) in South Africa
Tax Obligations
Tax Obligations for Close Corporations (CC) in South Africa
PAYE & Payroll
PAYE & Payroll for Close Corporations in South Africa
BEE Compliance
BEE Compliance for Close Corporations (CC) in South Africa
Deregistration
How to Deregister a Close Corporation in South Africa
Stay compliant with Accounter
Accounter helps South African businesses manage their accounting, tax returns, and compliance obligations โ all in one platform. From R300/month.