BizFile+ Singapore: How ACRA’s Portal Powers Business Compliance

Key Features of BizFile

BizFile offers over 300 e-services and a wide range of functionalities that cover the entire lifecycle of a business entity:

Here’s a closer look at the platform’s core functionalities:

1. Company Incorporation and Registration
 Setting up a business in Singapore is streamlined through BizFile+. Entrepreneurs can register various types of entities and receive official credentials instantly.

• Register sole proprietorships, partnerships, LLPs, and private limited companies.
• Submit details like company name, address, directors, shareholders, and business activities.
• Receive a Unique Entity Number (UEN) and a complimentary Business Profile upon approval.
  

2. Statutory Filings and Compliance
 All required corporate filings can be completed electronically, removing the need for in-person submissions.

• File annual returns, financial statements, and statutory declarations.
• Submit updates to company particulars (e.g., officers, address, share capital).
• Upload notices of resolutions and compliance documents.
  

3. Information Retrieval and Data Purchase
BizFile+ also acts as a gateway to official data, offering downloadable business documentation for operational and legal purposes.

• Access business profiles, financial reports, and compliance certificates.
• Purchase extracts, company constitutions, and certificates of good standing.
• Conduct due diligence or regulatory checks with verified documents from iShop@ACRA.
  

4. Business Updates and Cessation
Keep your company’s data up to date and handle closures directly through the portal.

• File changes to the company name, address, business activity, or appointments.
• Apply for striking off or cessation of business operations.
• Receive email and SMS notifications confirming submission and status.
  

5. Name Reservation

Before registering a company, users can check the availability of their desired company name and reserve it through the platform, ensuring the chosen name is unique and compliant with naming rules

6. Secure Electronic Transactions and Payments
BizFile supports secure online submission of documents and payments. The platform offers multiple payment options, including credit/debit cards, PayPal, Google Pay, and Apple Pay, enhancing convenience for users

7. Integration with Other Government Agencies
BizFile+ connects your company records to other government systems.

• Automatic syncing with IRAS for tax reporting.
• Integration with CPF and Medisave for employment compliance.
• Access to a centralised UEN directory to facilitate cross-agency interactions.

How to Access and Log In to BizFile+

Accessing BizFile+ is essential for handling filings, updating business information, and retrieving key corporate documents. The login process is secure and designed to accommodate both individuals and organisations through national authentication systems.

Account Types

• CorpPass: This is the standard login method for businesses and authorised agents. It allows corporate users to transact with government agencies, including ACRA, in a secure and controlled environment.
• SingPass: Individual users, such as sole proprietors or company officers, can use SingPass to manage their own business-related tasks on BizFile+.

Step-by-Step Access

1. Register for CorpPass: Visit corppass.gov.sg and create an account for your business. Assign user roles such as Admin or Sub-user.
2. Set Up Permissions: Grant specific access rights to company staff or third-party agents depending on their role.
3. Log In to BizFile+: Visit www.bizfile.gov.sg and choose either CorpPass or SingPass login.
4. Use the Dashboard: Once logged in, select from over 400 e-services through the intuitive dashboard, including registration, updates, and purchases.

BizFile+ also provides activity tracking, allowing businesses to view past filings and pending transactions. This functionality helps ensure compliance and transparency across all corporate actions.

What Are the Legal Requirements Linked to BizFile+?

Using BizFile+ comes with clear statutory obligations. Companies must comply with ACRA’s regulations and timelines to avoid penalties and ensure uninterrupted operations.

• Update Company Changes: Any changes to the registered address, directors, shareholders, or business activities must be updated in BizFile+ within 14 calendar days. Late submissions may lead to financial penalties or non-compliance flags on your business record.

• Appoint a Company Secretary: Every Singapore-incorporated company must appoint a qualified secretary within six months of its incorporation date. This person ensures statutory compliance and handles essential filings and record-keeping duties. Failing to appoint a secretary on time can result in penalties for directors.

• Annual Returns Filing: Companies are required to file their annual returns via BizFile+ within six months after their financial year end. This includes uploading financial statements (if applicable), confirming company details, and meeting compliance checks. It is a key indicator of business activity and good standing.

• Late Filing Penalties: ACRA imposes late fees ranging from S$50 to S$350, depending on the duration of the delay. Persistent failure to file may lead to legal action, including the possibility of the company being struck off or directors being disqualified.

Remaining proactive with BizFile+ filings helps protect the company’s legal status and builds trust with stakeholders and government agencies.

CorpPass, UEN & BizFile: How It All Connects

Understanding how BizFile+ integrates with CorpPass and the Unique Entity Number (UEN) is key to managing business compliance in Singapore. These systems work together to ensure seamless interaction between businesses and government services.

• UEN: The Unique Entity Number identifies each business and links it to government services. It’s issued at the point of registration and remains the company’s official identifier.
• CorpPass: Acts as a secure gateway for businesses to access BizFile+ and other government platforms. It’s mandatory for corporate users, ensuring secure, role-based access.
• Integration with IRAS: Changes made in BizFile+ are automatically synced with the Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore, ensuring accurate and timely tax records.
• One Login, Full Access: CorpPass credentials allow users to manage filings for one or multiple businesses through a unified dashboard, simplifying administration for company officers and secretaries.