What is GST Return ?
GST return is an official document that furnishes all the purchases, sales, tax paid on purchases, and tax collected on sales-related details. The GST returns is required to be filed, following which the taxpayer has to pay off the tax liability.
Who should file GST Returns ?
GST returns has to be filed by all the business entities who are registered under the GST system. The filing process has to be identified on the basis of the nature of the business.
The registered dealer who part of the following activities needs to file a GST return:
- Sales
- Purchase
- Output Goods and services tax (on Sales)
- Input Tax Credit with GST paid on the purchase
GST return filing is completely an online process in India. GST filing is very easy and quick process. However, it is necessary that returns are filed correctly and error-free to ensure that GST credit can be passed onto the next stage. All you need is GST website login credentials to get started. Once your GST registration is done, to file GST return is mandatory. Non-filing of of the same entail heavy penalties.
All registered persons under GST are required to file various returns. Main returns to be filed are GSTR-3B (which is a monthly summary) and GSTR 1 (details of outward supplies).
GSTR 3B is to be filed every month by 20th. However, the government has recently introduced QRMP Scheme according to which if the turnover for a business for previous year is up to 5 crores, you can pay your GST on monthly basis and file your GSTR 3B quarterly.
Finally, an annual GST return GSTR 9 must be filed by all GST registered entities on/before the 31st of December.
GSTR 4 is to be filed if you have opted for composition scheme. The registered entities will be required to file GST returns even if the entity has not done any business during any period.
Additionally there’s yearly GSTR 9C to be filed, which is GST Annual Audit. It is a reconciliation statement which needs to be certified by a practising Chartered Accountants.
