Filing an RFS Annual Return Online

 Step 1 - System requirements
To file online you will need the following: 

  • A working email account. 
  • Adobe Reader 9, or later versions, on your computer (Free from www.adobe.com). 
  • A printer to print the signature page. If you have anti-virus software on your computer, enable PopUps in order to view the signature page.

Step 2 - Registration
To file online you first need to register with the RFS Customer Portal.
This is a simple process.  Log onto https://rfs.cro.ie/login and Click on CREATE ACCOUNT.

Step 3 - Getting access
Log into https://rfs.cro.ie using your email address and password after replying to the confirmatory email issued by the RFS. This verifies your use of the account.

Step 4 - Completing the form
 Click on "File a Form".
 Select “Annual Return" from the drop down menu. Once you enter the society/union number, the correct submission type will be allocated to you for completion.
 Follow the instructions, making sure you read all pop-up messages carefully. To further assist you, the "Help" button, located on each web page will open up a page of instructions.
Also, the icon located beside some fields will provide more specific instructions about that particular field.
 When you have completed all the fields, click on "Total View" and then click on "Check Form" in order to identify omissions.
 After this validation, click "Check Content" and you will be presented with a list of discrepancies, if any, which are described as "Errors" or "Warnings".

Errors must be fixed before you can send the form; warnings should be checked to make sure the information is correct to the best of your knowledge. The financial statements must be uploaded before the signature page is delivered to the RFS.  You can then either submit the form or save and submit it later. When you have successfully submitted the form, a signature page will open up as a pdf document in Adobe Reader. You must print this page and have it signed by the relevant officers. Signature pages cannot be uploaded. The RFS requires the original "wet" signatures. You can pay by credit/debit card or file the documents with the RFS and pay by cheque/postal money order.

Submission of a form in the RFS Customer Portal is not the same as having filed the form with the RFS. Delivery of the signature page (if that process is used) must be received by the RFS. Signature pages cannot be uploaded. The RFS requires the original "wet" signatures. When all of the correct documentation is accepted by the RFS, the status of the document changes to Received. 
 
The filing fee for an electronically filed annual return is €20. Remember that if you have chosen to pay by credit card, payment will be taken immediately and is NON REFUNDABLE (as we cannot store card details). 

Further Information: If your query relates to RFS Customer Portal or technical issues associated with completing the online annual return, email Electronic Filing Section or phone 01 8045374/805355.