CIPC: New FAQs for Automated Reinstatements

Posted 10 September 2025 Written by Acts Online
Category CIPC

Brought to you by SA Accounting Academy: The Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC) has released updated guidance regarding the transition to an automated reinstatement process for deregistered entities.

In terms of the Companies Act, No. 71 of 2008, the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC) has implemented a new online application method for the reinstatement of companies and close corporations. This automated process, which utilizes Form CoR40.5 (Application for Re-instatement of Deregistered Company or Close Corporation), became officially effective on 11 August 2025.

The newly published Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) are designed to assist practitioners and entity representatives in navigating the digital interface. The automation aims to reduce manual intervention and expedite the restoration of entities that have been deregistered, typically due to non-compliance with annual return filings.

Key aspects addressed in the CIPC guidance include:

  • Step-by-step requirements for the new online Form CoR40.5 submission;
  • Validation protocols for entity status and update requirements;
  • Mandatory documentation required to support the reinstatement application; and
  • Technical specifications for the automated portal.

What this means for you, your business, or your clients

  • For yourself: You must ensure you are registered on the CIPC’s updated e-services platform to access the automated Form CoR40.5, as manual submissions for these reinstatements are no longer the standard procedure.
  • For your business: Update your firm’s standard operating procedures to reflect the 11 August 2025 effective date for automated reinstatements and ensure that staff are briefed on the new online validation steps.
  • For your clients: Advise clients with deregistered entities that the restoration process is now automated, which may require immediate settlement of all outstanding annual return fees and penalties before the Form CoR40.5 can be successfully processed.

Originally published at https://accountingacademy.co.za/news/read/cipc-new-faqs-reinstatements

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