u/BuyComprehensive2450

Curious to hear from founders and SME owners in Singapore.

After incorporating a Pte Ltd, what did you find most confusing?

• ACRA filings?
• IRAS tax filing?
• Company secretary?
• Bookkeeping?
• GST?
• Payroll / CPF?
• Bank account opening?
• Nominee director arrangement?

I’m trying to understand which parts are least clearly explained to new founders.

I often see new founders in Singapore unsure about what happens after incorporation.

Here is a practical first-year checklist:

1. Confirm company secretary arrangement
2. Confirm registered office
3. Decide and record financial year end
4. Keep bank statements, invoices, receipts and contracts
5. Set up bookkeeping before transactions become messy
6. Assess whether GST registration may become relevant
7. Set up payroll / CPF properly if hiring
8. Track ACRA Annual Return and IRAS corporate tax timelines
9. Document any director, shareholder or share transfer changes properly
10. Avoid mixing personal and company expenses

Common mistake: Many founders assume that if the company has little or no revenue, there is nothing to do. That is usually not a safe assumption.

Hope this helps new founders in Singapore.

Not legal or tax advice.