What Is Form AOC-4 XBRL?
Form AOC-4 XBRL is used to file financial statements in a structured digital format with the Ministry of Corporate Affairs. It ensures data standardization using the XBRL (eXtensible Business Reporting Language) format. This format enables easier analysis, comparison, and sharing of financial data. The form is mandatory for certain companies like listed entities and those crossing prescribed thresholds. It includes balance sheet, profit and loss, and other reports in XBRL taxonomy. Proper tagging and validation are crucial before submission.
Who Needs to File AOC-4 XBRL in 2025?
For the financial year 2024-25, the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) mandates AOC-4 XBRL filing for specific categories of companies based on their size, type, and listing status. These requirements ensure digital compliance and transparency in financial reporting. Below are the types of companies required to file AOC-4 in XBRL format:
- All Listed Companies in India: Every company listed on any recognized stock exchange must file its financials in XBRL format.
- Unlisted Companies with Paid-up Capital ≥ ₹5 Crores: If an unlisted company has a paid-up capital of ₹5 crore or more, AOC-4 XBRL is mandatory.
- Unlisted Companies with Turnover ≥ ₹100 Crores: Companies with annual turnover of ₹100 crore or above (as per latest audited financials) must file AOC-4 in XBRL.
- Companies Covered Under MCA’s Specific Orders: If a company has been specifically notified by MCA (via general or special order), it must comply with XBRL filing norms.
- All Companies Filing Under Ind AS: Companies that prepare financial statements as per Indian Accounting Standards (Ind AS) are required to use AOC-4 XBRL.
Checklist for AOC-4 XBRL Filing
To ensure a smooth and error-free AOC-4 XBRL filing, companies must prepare a few key elements in advance. Here’s a simplified checklist to help businesses stay compliant:
- Check Applicability: Confirm if your company falls under any category that mandates AOC-4 XBRL filing.
- Updated Financial Statements: Ensure the audited Balance Sheet, Profit & Loss Account, and Cash Flow Statement are finalized.
- Digital Signature Certificate (DSC): A valid DSC of the director or authorized signatory is required for filing the form.
- XBRL Software and Taxonomy Mapping: Use MCA-approved XBRL software to tag financial data as per the latest XBRL taxonomy.
- Director’s Report and Auditor’s Report: These must be ready and signed before attaching them to the form.
- Board Resolution for Approval: Board approval of financial statements and authorization for filing should be in place.
- Validation using MCA Tools: Validate the XML file generated from the XBRL software using MCA’s validation tools.
- Ensure Timely Filing: File the form within 30 days from the company’s AGM to avoid penalties.
Due Date for AOC-4 XBRL Filing (FY 2024-25)
| Event | Due Date |
|---|---|
| Holding of Annual General Meeting (AGM) | On or before 30th September 2025 (for most companies) |
| AOC-4 XBRL Filing Deadline | Within 30 days from the date of AGM |
| Extended Due Date (if MCA grants extension) | As per latest MCA Circular (if applicable) |
| Financial Year Covered | 1st April 2024 to 31st March 2025 |
Note: If the AGM is not held, the due date is counted from the last date on which the AGM should have been held, as per Section 137 of the Companies Act, 2013.
Key Documents Required
Here are the essential documents you need to prepare before filing AOC-4 XBRL with the MCA:
- Audited Financial Statements: Balance Sheet, P&L Account, and Notes to Accounts
- Board’s Report: Approved and signed by the Board
- Auditor’s Report: Issued by the statutory auditor
- Digital Signature Certificate (DSC): Of authorized director or professional
- Form AOC-1: For details of subsidiaries, associates, or joint ventures
- Board Resolution: Authorising filing of AOC-4 XBRL
- XBRL Instance Document: Generated with updated MCA-compliant taxonomy
Step-by-Step Filing Process
Follow these simple steps to file AOC-4 XBRL accurately and on time:
- Check Applicability: Confirm if your company is required to file AOC-4 in XBRL format as per MCA rules.
- Prepare Financial Documents: Finalize and audit the financial statements, Board’s Report, and Auditor’s Report.
- Generate XBRL Instance Document: Use MCA-approved software to convert financials into XBRL format using the correct taxonomy.
- Validate the Document: Validate the XBRL file using MCA’s XBRL validation tool to check for any errors.
- Attach Required Documents: Attach audited reports, AOC-1 (if applicable), and other mandatory files in the form.
- Sign the Form Digitally: Use a valid Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) of the authorized signatory.
- Upload Form on MCA Portal: Log in to the MCA portal and upload the signed AOC-4 XBRL form.
- Pay Filing Fees: Pay the applicable filing fees based on the company’s authorized share capital.
- Download SRN Acknowledgment: Once filed, download and save the SRN and acknowledgement for future reference.
Benefits of Filing AOC-4 in XBRL Format
Filing in XBRL format offers better transparency and simplifies financial data management. Key benefits include:
- Standardized Reporting: Ensures consistency and uniformity in financial statements
- Improved Data Accuracy: Reduces manual errors with system-based validations
- Regulatory Compliance: Meets mandatory MCA requirements for specific companies
- Easier Analysis: Enables faster data analysis for regulators and stakeholders
- Time-Saving Process: Once set up, future filings become quicker and more efficient
Penalties for Late or Non-Filing
Non-compliance with AOC-4 XBRL filing can lead to significant penalties under the Companies Act.
- Per Day Fine: Rs. 100 per day of delay with no maximum cap
- Company-Level Penalty: Additional fines imposed on the company by MCA
- Director Liability: Directors may also face penalties for non-compliance
- ROC Notices: Delays can trigger notices or inspection from the ROC
- Compliance Risk: May affect future approvals or corporate actions
How EbizFiling Can Assist?
- Expert Guidance: Dedicated team to verify applicability and compliance
- Accurate Tagging: Preparation of XBRL instance document as per latest taxonomy
- Document Review: End-to-end assistance in reviewing and finalizing reports
- Timely Submission: Filing done well within statutory deadlines
- Hassle-Free Process: End-to-end support, including ROC coordination and updates
Conclusion
Filing Form AOC-4 XBRL is a crucial compliance requirement for eligible companies in India. Timely and accurate filing helps avoid penalties and ensures transparency in financial reporting. EbizFiling provides expert support throughout the XBRL filing process to make compliance smooth and error-free.
Suggested Read :
Guide to File AOC-4 Online
ROC Filing Checklist
XBRL Filing in India
What is Form e-AOC 5?
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