How it works
Most Singapore companies file financial statements in full XBRL with their annual return. Smaller companies that are not publicly accountable, with revenue and total assets each of S$500,000 or less, can file simplified XBRL with a PDF copy. Solvent exempt private companies (fewer than 20 members, no corporate shareholders) need not file at all. Banks and insurers use dedicated templates; companies on approved non-SFRS(I) frameworks file a PDF copy.
Worked example
A company owned by a foreign parent is not an exempt private company (it has a corporate shareholder). With revenue of S$3 million, it files full XBRL.
Questions people ask
What is XBRL?
The data format ACRA uses for financial statements.
Who can file simplified XBRL?
Smaller, non-publicly accountable companies with revenue and assets each of S$500,000 or less.
Do exempt private companies file?
Solvent ones need not, but may choose to.
Sources
Last checked 1 November 2026. General information only, not advice for your situation. Speak to a qualified adviser before you act.