DPT-3 Form, also known as the Return of Deposits, is an important compliance requirement under the Companies Act, 2013. All companies, except government entities, must file this annual form with the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) by June 30th to report deposits, loans, and other financial receipts not classified as deposits. Non-compliance with this filing can result in hefty penalties, tarnish a company's reputation, and lead to legal repercussions for the company and its officers. This article provides an in-depth understanding of the DPT-3 form, its importance, filing process, penalties.
What is DPT-3?
DPT-3, or the Return of Deposits, is a mandatory form under Rule 16 of the Companies (Acceptance of Deposits) Rules, 2014. It serves as a declaration of all deposits received by a company during a financial year, including money from members, directors, or other parties. The form also includes information on outstanding loans or amounts not classified as deposits. Filing this form ensures compliance with Sections 73 to 76 of the Companies Act, 2013, thereby promoting transparency and safeguarding the interests of depositors.
Key Highlights of DPT-3:
-Applicable to all companies except government entities.
-Discloses deposits, loans, and other financial receipts.
-Annual filing deadline: June 30th.
-Ensures compliance with the Companies Act, 2013.
Importance of Filing DPT-3 Form
1. Transparency and Compliance: Filing DPT-3 provides transparency by providing detailed disclosures about the company’s financial obligations. It builds trust with stakeholders, including creditors, members, and regulatory authorities, and ensures adherence to the Companies Act, 2013.
2. Protection of Depositors: By recording all deposits and liabilities, the DPT-3 form safeguards the interests of depositors. It acts as a monitoring mechanism to ensure responsible management of funds.
3. Regulatory Monitoring: Regulatory authorities use the DPT-3 filings to assess the financial health of companies and their compliance with deposit-related regulations. This helps in identifying potential risks early.
4. Maintaining Good Standing: Timely filing of DPT-3 showcases the company’s commitment to responsible financial management and legal compliance, fostering a positive reputation.
5. Clarity on Deposits: The filing process helps companies distinguish between deposits and other financial transactions, ensuring accurate reporting and reducing ambiguity in liabilities.
Deadline for DPT-3 Filing
The Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) has mandated June 30th as the annual deadline or due date for filing the DPT-3 form. This requirement applies to all companies required to disclose details of deposits, loans, or other financial receipts for the financial year ending March 31st.
Key Notification:
As per the MCA Notification dated January 22, 2024, all eligible companies must complete their DPT-3 filing on time to avoid penalties.
Penalties for Non-Filing of DPT-3
Non-compliance with DPT-3 filing requirements can result in severe penalties under Section 73 of the Companies Act, 2013, and Rule 21 of the Companies (Deposit) Rules, 2014.
1. Penalty under Section 73 of the Companies Act, 2013:
-The company is liable to repay the deposits with due interest.
-Penalty amount: Higher of Rs. 1 crore or twice the deposit amount, subject to a maximum of Rs. 10 crore.
-Officers in default can face imprisonment of up to 7 years and a fine ranging from Rs. 25 lakh to Rs. 2 crore.
2. Penalty under Rule 21 of the Companies (Deposit) Rules, 2014:
-Initial fine of Rs. 5,000.
-Additional fine of Rs. 500 per day for continued non-compliance.
Provision |
Penalty for Company |
Penalty for Officers |
Section 73, Companies Act, 2013 |
Higher of Rs. 1 crore or twice the deposit amount (maximum Rs. 10 crore) |
Imprisonment up to 7 years and a fine of Rs. 25 lakh to Rs. 2 crore |
Rule 21, Companies (Deposit) Rules, 2014 |
Fine up to Rs. 5,000 (additional Rs. 500 per day) |
No specific penalty under Rule 21 |
Filing Process for DPT-3
To ensure compliance, companies must accurately complete and file the DPT-3 form. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. Login to the MCA Portal: Access the MCA portal and log in with your credentials.
2. Download the DPT-3 Form: Navigate to the “E-Forms” section and download the latest version of Form DPT-3.
3. Fill in the Details: Provide accurate information, including:
-CIN (Corporate Identification Number)
-Details of deposits received
-Outstanding loan details
-Exempted deposit receipts
4. Attach Supporting Documents: Upload the necessary documents, such as audited financial statements and auditor’s certificate.
5. Pay Filing Fees: Calculate and pay the applicable filing fee based on the company’s paid-up capital.
6. Submit the Form: Review all details and submit the form electronically.
7. Download Acknowledgment: After successful submission, download the acknowledgment for future reference.
Common Errors to Avoid During Filing
1. Incorrect CIN: Ensure the CIN matches the MCA database.
2. Incomplete Details: Fill in all required fields to avoid rejection.
3. Missing Attachments: Upload all necessary supporting documents.
4. Late Filing: Submit the form before the June 30th deadline to avoid penalties.
Conclusion
DPT-3 filing is a vital compliance requirement for companies in India. It ensures transparency, safeguards depositors' interests, and promotes responsible financial management. Non-compliance can lead to severe penalties, including hefty fines and legal action against the company and its officers. Companies must adhere to the filing deadline and ensure accurate submissions to maintain good standing and avoid legal repercussions.
To simplify the process and avoid penalties, you can seek expert assistance from Compliance Calendar LLP. Our team ensures seamless filing and compliance with all regulatory requirements. You can reach out to us through info@ccoffice.in or call/whatsapp us at 9988424211.
FAQs
1. What is the DPT-3 form?
Ans. DPT-3 is a mandatory annual filing for companies (except government entities) under the Companies Act, 2013. It discloses information about deposits, loans, and other financial receipts not classified as deposits.
2. Who is required to file DPT-3?
Ans. All companies, except government entities, must file DPT-3. This includes private companies, public companies, and one-person companies.
3. What is the deadline for DPT-3 filing?
Ans. The deadline for filing the DPT-3 form is June 30th each year, covering the financial year ending March 31st.
4. What are the penalties for non-filing of DPT-3?
Ans. Non-filing attracts a fine of Rs. 5,000 under Rule 21 of the Companies (Deposit) Rules, 2014, with an additional penalty of Rs. 500 per day for continued default. Under Section 73 of the Companies Act, 2013, penalties can go up to Rs. 10 crore.
5. Can DPT-3 be filed after the due date?
Ans. Yes, but late filing attracts penalties. It’s advisable to file before the deadline to avoid fines and legal complications.
6. What documents are required for DPT-3 filing?
Ans. Key documents include:
-Audited financial statements
-Auditor’s certificate
-Details of deposits and loans
7. How can Compliance Calendar LLP assist in DPT-3 filing?
Ans. Compliance Calendar LLP provides expert assistance to ensure accurate and timely DPT-3 filing. Our team handles all aspects of the process, from document preparation to submission, helping companies avoid penalties and maintain compliance.