GST Return Filing in India

GST Filing Return – Types and Due Dates

Under the Goods and Services Tax (GST) regime in India, businesses are required to file various types of GST returns. The types of GST returns and their due dates are as follows:

• GSTR-1:
  • Description: Contains details of outward supplies (sales) made by the taxpayer.
  • Filing Frequency: Monthly for regular taxpayers with a turnover exceeding Rs. 1.5 crore; quarterly for taxpayers with a turnover up to Rs. 1.5 crore.
  • Due Date: Monthly GSTR-1: 11th of the following month; Quarterly GSTR-1: 13th of the month following the quarter.
• GSTR-3B:
  • Description: Summarized return detailing both inward and outward supplies and input tax credit.
  • Filing Frequency: Monthly for all regular taxpayers.
  • Due Date: 20th of the following month.
• GSTR-4:
  • Description: Filed by taxpayers under the Composition Scheme, providing quarterly outward supplies and tax payments.
  • Due Date: 18th of the month following the quarter.
• GSTR-5:
  • Description: Filed by Non-Resident Foreign Taxpayers conducting business transactions in India.
  • Due Date: Within 20 days after the end of the respective tax period or within 7 days after the expiry of registration, whichever is earlier.
• GSTR-6:
  • Description: Filed by Input Service Distributors (ISD) to distribute input tax credit among their branches or units.
  • Due Date: 13th of the following month.
• GSTR-7:
  • Description: Filed by Tax Deductors (TDS deductors) providing details of TDS deducted and deposited.
  • Due Date: 10th of the following month.
• GSTR-8:
  • Description: Filed by e-commerce operators, detailing supplies made through their platform and TCS (Tax Collected at Source).
  • Due Date: 10th of the following month.
• GSTR-9:
  • Description: Annual return providing a consolidated view of outward and inward supplies made during the financial year.
  • Due Date: 31st of December of the following financial year.
• GSTR-10:
  • Description: Filed for the final return when a taxpayer surrenders or cancels their GST registration.
  • Due Date: Within 3 months of the date of cancellation or date of order of cancellation, whichever is later.

It’s important to note that due dates may vary, and it is advisable to check for updates or extensions from the official GST portal or consult with a professional to ensure timely and accurate GST return filing. FastLegal can provide expert assistance to ensure compliance with GST return filing and meet the respective due dates.

GST Return Filing Process with FastLegal

At FastLegal, we offer a seamless and hassle-free GST return filing process. Here’s how we assist you through every step:

• Expert Consultation:
  • Discuss your GST return filing requirements with our professional team.
  • We’ll assess your business needs and identify the applicable GST returns.
• Record Maintenance:
  • Ensure your business records are accurate and up-to-date.
  • Our team will guide you on maintaining proper records for smooth GST return filing.
• Data Collection:
  • Provide us with necessary financial data, including sales, purchases, and input tax credit.
  • Our experts review the data for accuracy and compliance.
• Filing Preparation:
  • Based on the provided data, we prepare the required GST returns, such as GSTR-1, GSTR-3B, and others.
• Reconciliation:
  • We reconcile the data reported in GSTR-1 and GSTR-3B with your books of accounts.
  • Verification of input tax credit claimed is conducted.
• Payment of Tax:
  • Our team calculates the due tax amount and guides you on making payments using available modes on the GST portal.
• Return Filing:
  • FastLegal files the prepared GST returns on your behalf through the GST portal.
  • We ensure timely submission and compliance with due dates.
• Annual Return (GSTR-9):
  • If applicable, we assist you in filing the annual return (GSTR-9) to provide a consolidated view of your business transactions during the financial year.
• GST Audit (if applicable):
  • For businesses exceeding the prescribed turnover threshold, we guide you through the GST audit process.
  • Assistance in filing the GST Audit report (GSTR-9C) is provided.
• Timely Compliance:
  • FastLegal ensures timely compliance with GST regulations, avoiding late fees and penalties for delayed filings.
• Ongoing Support:
  • Our team provides continuous support for any GST-related queries and updates on GST laws and regulations.

Partner with FastLegal for a seamless GST return filing experience. Let us handle the complexities while you focus on your business success. Contact us now for a free consultation!

How to Check GST Return Status

To check the status of your GST return, follow these simple steps:

• Visit the GST Portal:
  • Go to the official GST portal at www.gst.gov.in.
• Log In:
  • Log in to the portal using your valid credentials, such as your GSTIN (Goods and Services Tax Identification Number) or User ID and password.
• Navigate to the Returns Dashboard:
  • After logging in, navigate to the “Returns Dashboard” tab on the main dashboard.
• Select the Return Period:
  • From the drop-down menu, choose the return period for which you want to check the status. Select the appropriate month and year.
• View Return Status:
  • Once you’ve selected the return period, the status of your filed returns for that period will be displayed on the screen. You’ll see whether each return is filed successfully, submitted but not filed, or pending for processing.
• Acknowledgment Reference Number (ARN):
  • If your return is filed successfully, you’ll find the acknowledgment reference number (ARN) for that return. The ARN serves as proof of successful filing.
• Track Processing Status:
  • If the return status shows “pending for processing,” you can track the processing status by clicking on the ARN or the “Track Status” button next to the return.
• Download Filed Return:
  • To download the filed return, simply click on the “Download” button next to the respective return. You can download the filed return in PDF format for your records.

Please note that it may take some time for the return status to be updated after filing. If you encounter any discrepancies or issues with the filed return, such as “error” or “rejected” status, you’ll need to rectify the errors and refile the return.

For any technical assistance or concerns regarding GST return status, feel free to contact the GST helpdesk or seek guidance from a qualified GST practitioner or professional, such as FastLegal, for expert support.

Steps to Download GST Returns Online

To download your GST returns online, follow these straightforward steps:

• Visit the GST Portal:
  • Go to the official GST portal at www.gst.gov.in.
• Log In:
  • Log in to the portal using your valid credentials, such as your GSTIN (Goods and Services Tax Identification Number) or User ID and password.
• Navigate to the Returns Dashboard:
  • After logging in, click on the “Returns Dashboard” tab on the main dashboard.
• Select the Return Period:
  • From the drop-down menu, choose the return period for which you want to download the return. Select the appropriate month and year.
• View Filed Returns:
  • Once you’ve selected the return period, you’ll see the list of filed returns for that period. The status of each return (filed, submitted but not filed, or pending for processing) will be displayed.
• Download the Filed Return:
  • To download the filed return, simply click on the “Download” button next to the respective return. The filed return will be downloaded in PDF format.
• Verify the Downloaded Return:
  • After downloading, carefully verify the contents of the return to ensure its accuracy. Cross-check the details with your records and make any necessary corrections if required.
• Save and Store the Return:
  • Save the downloaded return in a secure location for your records and future reference.

Please note that you can only download successfully filed returns that have been submitted and processed. If there are any discrepancies or issues with the filed return, such as “error” or “rejected” status, you’ll need to rectify the errors and refile the return.

Downloading and maintaining copies of your filed returns is crucial for compliance and record-keeping purposes. It serves as evidence of your tax compliance and allows you to reference return details as needed for audits or other purposes.

If you encounter any technical issues or concerns while downloading GST returns online, feel free to contact the GST helpdesk or seek assistance from a qualified GST practitioner or professional, such as FastLegal, for expert guidance.

Benefits of Filing GST Returns

Filing GST (Goods and Services Tax) returns offers several advantages for businesses and the economy. Here are the key benefits:

• Legal Compliance:
  • Ensures adherence to tax regulations, avoiding penalties and legal issues.
• Input Tax Credit (ITC):
  • Allows businesses to claim tax credits on purchases, reducing tax liability and boosting profitability.
• Transparent Tax System:
  • Promotes transparency by requiring accurate reporting, minimizing tax evasion.
• Seamless Flow of Input Credit:
  • Facilitates smooth transfer of Input Tax Credit, fostering a healthy business environment.
• Business Credibility:
  • Enhances credibility, reflecting financial discipline and professionalism.
• Access to Government Schemes:
  • Eligibility for various government schemes and incentives with valid GST registration and regular filing.
• Better Financial Planning:
  • Provides clarity on tax liabilities and credits, aiding in financial planning and budgeting.
• Inter-State Trade Facilitation:
  • Essential for businesses engaged in inter-state trade, allowing claim of IGST paid on such supplies.
• Digitalization and Efficiency:
  • Promotes digitalization, reducing paperwork and enhancing efficiency in tax processes.
• Contributing to National Development:
  • Contributes to the nation’s development and welfare programs through tax revenue.

Filing GST returns fosters a structured tax framework, benefiting businesses, consumers, and the economy. It encourages compliance, simplifies taxation, and supports economic growth. Partnering with professionals like FastLegal can streamline the process, maximizing these benefits for businesses.

Documents Required for GST Return Filing

While specific documents are not submitted along with GST returns, businesses must maintain certain records to support the information provided in the returns. Here are the key documents required for GST return filing:

• Purchase Invoices: Invoices received from suppliers for goods and services purchased, containing details such as supplier’s GSTIN, invoice number, date, description of goods/services, quantity, value, and applicable taxes.
• Sales Invoices: Invoices issued to customers for goods and services supplied, including details like customer’s GSTIN, invoice number, date, description of goods/services, quantity, value, and applicable taxes.
• Credit and Debit Notes: Credit notes for adjustments in sales invoices (e.g., discounts, returns) and debit notes for adjustments in purchase invoices.
• Tax Challans: Receipts for GST payments made to the government, specifying tax amount, tax type (CGST, SGST, IGST, or cess), and relevant tax period.
• Input Tax Credit (ITC) Records: Records supporting the claim of input tax credit on eligible purchases, including invoices, debit notes, and other relevant documents.
• Export and Import Documents: For businesses involved in export/import, documents like shipping bills, bill of entry, and export invoices.
• Delivery Challans: Challans for the movement of goods without a tax invoice, used for purposes like job work, supply to a registered dealer, or export.
• E-way Bills: Documents generated for the movement of goods exceeding specified thresholds within or between states.
• Bank Statements: Statements reflecting transactions related to GST payments and refunds.
• GST Registration Certificate: Copy of the GST registration certificate issued by the tax authorities.

Proper maintenance of these documents ensures compliance with GST regulations and facilitates smooth GST return filing. FastLegal can provide guidance on maintaining records and expert assistance with GST return filing to ensure compliance.

GST Return Filing under the Composition Scheme

Under the Composition Scheme of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) regime in India, certain eligible businesses can opt for a simplified tax structure and reduced compliance requirements. Here’s an overview of GST return filing under the Composition Scheme:

• Types of Returns:
  • GSTR-4: Composition taxpayers are required to file GSTR-4, a quarterly return summarizing outward supplies made during the quarter and the tax paid on such supplies.
• Frequency of Filing:
  • Composition taxpayers file GSTR-4 quarterly, with the return due by the 18th of the month following the quarter. For example, the GSTR-4 for the April-June quarter is due by the 18th of July.
• Information to be Reported in GSTR-4:
  • Summary of outward supplies made during the quarter, including details of supplies to registered and unregistered persons.
  • Details of inward supplies attracting reverse charge (if applicable).
  • Consolidated tax payable on the outward supplies.
  • Adjustments made in the tax liability due to excess or short payment in previous quarters.
  • Other relevant information as required.
• Eligibility and Conditions:
  • Businesses with an aggregate turnover of up to Rs. 1.5 crore in the previous financial year can opt for the Composition Scheme.
  • Certain specified activities, such as interstate supplies, e-commerce, and non-taxable supplies, make businesses ineligible for the Composition Scheme.
  • Composition taxpayers cannot collect tax from customers; instead, they pay tax at a fixed percentage of their turnover.
• Payment of Tax:
  • Composition taxpayers pay tax at fixed rates based on their business category: Manufacturers (1%), Traders (0.5%), Restaurants (5% for both AC and non-AC).
  • They are not eligible to claim input tax credit on their purchases.
• Annual Return:
  • Composition taxpayers are exempt from filing GSTR-9 (annual return) and only need to file GSTR-4 quarterly.
• Compliance Simplification:
  • While the Composition Scheme offers reduced compliance burden compared to regular taxpayers, timely and accurate filing of GSTR-4 within the due dates is essential to avoid penalties and stay compliant with GST regulations.

Businesses under the Composition Scheme can benefit from professional guidance to ensure smooth GST return filing and adherence to the scheme’s provisions. Expert assistance from professionals like FastLegal can facilitate compliance and simplify the filing process.

Why FastLegal

At FastLegal, we prioritize simplifying the GST return filing process for entrepreneurs, allowing them to manage their returns conveniently from their homes. Here’s why you should choose FastLegal:

• Efficiency: With FastLegal, you can complete your GST return filing in just 1-2 hours, saving you valuable time and effort.
• Comprehensive Assistance: Our services go beyond just the filing process. We provide comprehensive assistance, including verification, document filing, and obtaining the GST return.
• Expertise: Our team comprises experts well-versed in GST regulations and procedures. You can rely on our expertise to ensure accurate and compliant GST return filing.
• Guidance: Throughout the entire process, we offer guidance and support to address any queries or concerns you may have. We’re committed to making the filing process as smooth and stress-free as possible for you.

By choosing FastLegal, businesses can benefit from our efficiency, expertise, and commitment to ensuring smooth GST return filing and compliance with regulatory requirements.