CIPC Customer Code: What It Is and How to Get One (2026)

What it is

Your CIPC Customer Code is a six-character alphanumeric identifier issued by CIPC to every individual or entity that wants to transact with them. It's the reference number you use when paying CIPC and when filing forms via eServices.

Important: this is NOT your company's registration number. The registration number identifies the company (e.g. K2026/123456/07). The Customer Code identifies YOU as the natural person filing - you can hold one Customer Code and use it across many companies you act for.

How to get one

1. Go to https://eservices.cipc.co.za.
2. Click 'Register as a customer' on the home page.
3. Provide: ID number, full name, contact details, email, banking details (for refunds), residential and postal address.
4. Submit. Customer Code is issued immediately on screen and emailed.
5. Free. No fees.

What you can't do without it

• Pay CIPC fees - bank deposits without your Customer Code as reference float unallocated for weeks.
• File any form on eServices.
• File Annual Returns at https://annualreturns.cipc.co.za.
• File Beneficial Ownership.
• Apply for reinstatement, deregistration, name change.

If you've forgotten your code

1. Search your email for 'CIPC' + 'customer code' - the welcome email contained it.
2. Try logging in to eServices - the dashboard shows your Customer Code at the top.
3. If you can't log in: email Eservicescoreg@cipc.co.za with your ID number and a request for Customer Code retrieval.
4. Still stuck: 086 100 2472 to speak to the contact centre.

Frequently asked questions

Tools to help

Related guides