Reporting Season Reminder: Annual Returns due by 30 September 2026 for many Charities

For many New Zealand charities and other Public Benefit Entities (PBEs), the reporting season is well underway.

If your organisation has a 31 March 2026 balance date and is registered under the Charities Act, your Annual Return must be filed with Charities Services by 30 September 2026, unless you have been granted an extension. Registered charities are generally required to file their annual return within six months of their balance date.

What’s required

The annual return process typically includes:

• Preparing your Performance Report or Financial Statements in accordance with the applicable reporting standards
• Completing the Annual Return through the Charities Services online portal
• Submitting your financial information and supporting documentation
• Paying any applicable filing fees

The reporting requirements vary depending on your charity’s reporting tier and size, making it important to ensure your reporting is accurate and compliant.

Why you should file on time

Timely filing helps maintain your charity’s good standing and demonstrates accountability to donors, funders, members, and the wider community. It also ensures your information on the Charities Register remains current and publicly available.

Late filing can result in additional scrutiny from regulators and may ultimately affect an organisation’s registered charity status if reporting obligations are repeatedly not met.

Don’t leave it until the last minute

For many organisations, preparing year-end financial statements and performance reports can take longer than expected, particularly where:

• Volunteer treasurers are involved
• Audit or review requirements apply
• Additional governance approvals are needed
• There have been significant changes during the year

Starting early gives your organisation time to identify and resolve any issues before the filing deadline.

Need Help?

At Levi Chartered Accountants, we work with charities, trusts, incorporated societies, and other Public Benefit Entities to help meet their reporting obligations with confidence.

If your organisation has a 31 March balance date and you have not yet started preparing your annual return documentation, now is the time to act. Get in touch with the team.