ACRA Notice of Error (NOE): How to Correct an Incorrect BizFile Filing in Singapore
Mistakes can happen when submitting documents to Singapore’s Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA). Whether it’s an incorrect share allotment, wrong director information, or a filing submitted with inaccurate details, businesses should act promptly to prevent future compliance issues.
Fortunately, ACRA provides a solution through the Notice of Error (NOE) process, allowing eligible filing mistakes to be corrected without creating additional complications.
This guide explains what a Notice of Error is, when it can be used, the filing process, and how WLP can help businesses rectify errors efficiently.
What Is an ACRA Notice of Error?
A Notice of Error (NOE) is an official application submitted through BizFile that requests ACRA to amend incorrect information contained in a previously lodged filing.
Instead of submitting another filing to “reverse” the mistake, businesses should apply to correct the original transaction whenever the error meets ACRA’s requirements.
Most NOE applications cost S$60, while corrections involving revised financial statements may incur higher fees. Processing time generally ranges from 7 to 30 working days, depending on the complexity of the request.
Common Filing Errors That Can Be Corrected
Businesses commonly submit an NOE for:
- Incorrect director appointment or resignation dates
- Wrong shareholder information
- Errors in share allotments or share transfers
- Typographical mistakes
- Incorrect company details
- Wrong filing attachments
- Duplicate submissions
- Annual return data entry mistakes
If the mistake was genuinely accidental and correcting it does not negatively affect another party, ACRA may approve the application.
Situations Where an NOE Cannot Be Used
A Notice of Error is not suitable for every situation.
Generally, it cannot be used when:
- The filing reflects an intentional business decision.
- The correction would change legal ownership or rights.
- There is an ongoing dispute between shareholders or directors.
- The company is attempting to cancel a legitimate transaction.
- Court intervention is required.
Where legal rights are affected, businesses may need a court order instead of an administrative correction.
Why You Shouldn’t Submit Another Filing
One of the biggest mistakes business owners make is filing another transaction to “undo” the previous one.
For example:
- filing another share allotment,
- creating another share transfer,
- submitting duplicate director appointments.
Doing so usually creates additional compliance issues because both transactions remain on the public record.
Instead, businesses should correct the original filing through the Notice of Error process whenever applicable.
How to File an ACRA Notice of Error
The process typically involves:
- Identify the Incorrect Filing
Locate the original BizFile transaction number or filing reference.
- Prepare Supporting Documents
Depending on the error, documents may include:
- Board resolutions
- Share transfer forms
- Share allotment documents
- Corporate resolutions
- Supporting correspondence
- Submit the Notice of Error
Log into BizFile using Corppass and complete the relevant NOE application.
- Pay the Required Fee
Most applications require a S$60 non-refundable filing fee.
- Await ACRA’s Review
Straightforward applications are generally processed within several working days, while share-related corrections may take longer.
Documents That May Be Required
The supporting documents depend on the nature of the mistake.
Examples include:
- Signed board resolutions
- Share certificates
- Share transfer instruments
- Directors’ resolutions
- Updated company records
- Financial statements (if applicable)
Providing complete documentation helps reduce delays during ACRA’s review.
What Happens If Your Application Is Rejected?
An NOE may be rejected if:
- insufficient supporting evidence is provided,
- the wrong transaction was selected,
- the correction affects legal rights,
- the information submitted is incomplete.
Since filing fees are generally non-refundable, preparing the application carefully before submission is important.
How WLP Can Help
Rectifying ACRA filings requires more than simply completing an online form. Incorrect submissions may lead to additional delays, compliance concerns, or even the need for further corrective filings.
WLP assists Singapore businesses with:
- Notice of Error (NOE) applications
- Share allotment corrections
- Share transfer amendments
- Annual return rectifications
- Corporate secretarial services
- Director and shareholder record updates
- ACRA compliance support
- BizFile filing assistance
Our experienced corporate secretarial team reviews the original transaction, prepares the required supporting documents, and manages the submission process to improve the likelihood of a successful outcome.
Whether you’re correcting a simple administrative mistake or resolving a more complex corporate filing issue, WLP provides practical guidance throughout the process.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does an ACRA Notice of Error cost?
Most NOE applications cost S$60, while revised financial statement filings may have different fees.
How long does ACRA take to process an NOE?
Processing usually takes between 7 and 30 working days, depending on the type of correction and supporting documentation.
Can I reverse an incorrect BizFile submission?
In many cases, no. Rather than submitting another filing, businesses should apply to correct the original transaction through a Notice of Error where appropriate.
Can WLP submit the application for me?
Yes. WLP can manage the entire correction process, prepare supporting documents, and liaise on your behalf to help ensure the application is submitted correctly.
Need Help Correcting an ACRA Filing?
Submitting an incorrect BizFile transaction does not always mean lengthy legal complications. Many filing mistakes can be resolved through ACRA’s Notice of Error process when handled correctly.
If you’ve discovered an error in your company records, contact WLP for professional assistance. Our corporate secretarial specialists can review your case, recommend the appropriate rectification method, and help restore your company’s records accurately and efficiently.