GST Return Filing

What is GST Return Filing?

GST return filing is the process of reporting sales, purchases, tax collected on sales (output tax), and tax paid on purchases (input tax) to the government. Every registered business must file returns regularly to stay compliant and claim Input Tax Credit (ITC).

Types of GST Returns and Who Should File

Form Purpose Who Should File Frequency Description
GSTR-1Outward suppliesRegular taxpayersMonthly/QuarterlyInvoice-wise sales details.
GSTR-2BAuto ITC statementAll GST holdersMonthlySystem-generated ITC view.
GSTR-3BTax summary & paymentRegular taxpayersMonthlySummarized return with tax payment.
GSTR-4Composition returnComposition dealersAnnuallyFlat rate simplified return.
GSTR-5Non-resident returnForeign businessesMonthlyFor non-resident suppliers.
GSTR-6ISD returnInput Service DistributorsMonthlyITC distribution to units.
GSTR-7TDS returnTax deductorsMonthlyDetails of TDS under GST.
GSTR-8TCS returnE-commerce platformsMonthlyTax collected on sales.
GSTR-9Annual returnRegular taxpayersYearlySummary of yearly filings.
GSTR-9CReconciliation & auditTurnover > ₹5 CrYearlyAuditor-certified reconciliation.

Documents Required for GST Return Filing

GSTIN
(GST Identification Number)
Sales and Purchase Invoices
Credit/Debit Notes
HSN/SAC Codes
Tax Payment Challans
Input Tax Credit Details
Digital Signature or EVC

Steps in GST Return Filing

  1. Login to www.gst.gov.in
  2. Select the relevant return form (GSTR-1, GSTR-3B, etc.)
  3. Enter invoice-wise sales/purchase data
  4. Review auto-generated data (like GSTR-2B)
  5. Pay tax using credit/cash ledger
  6. Submit and file return using DSC or OTP
  7. Download acknowledgment for records

Due Dates for GST Returns

FormDue DateFrequency
GSTR-111th of next monthMonthly/Quarterly
GSTR-3B20th of next monthMonthly
GSTR-430th AprilAnnually
GSTR-931st DecemberAnnually
GSTR-7 & GSTR-810th of next monthMonthly

Penalties for Late Filing

Benefits of Timely GST Return Filing

1. Avoid Penalties and Interest

Timely filing helps you steer clear of late fees and interest charges imposed by the GST Department for delayed submissions, ensuring cost savings.

2. Ensure 100% Input Tax Credit (ITC)

Filing returns on time allows you to claim full ITC without restrictions. Delays might result in mismatches or missed credits, affecting your working capital.

3. Boost Business Credibility

Regular compliance enhances your credibility with suppliers, customers, and financial institutions, showing that your business is law-abiding and trustworthy.

4. Smooth Reconciliation and Accounting

Timely filings streamline your bookkeeping process and make it easier to reconcile invoices with GST portal data, reducing errors and delays in audits.

5. Ease in Getting Loans and Govt Tenders

Lenders and government bodies often assess GST compliance before approving loans or awarding tenders. Timely filings support your eligibility and improve approval chances.

QRMP Scheme for Small Taxpayers

The QRMP Scheme (Quarterly Return Monthly Payment) is for taxpayers with turnover up to ₹5 crore. They can file GSTR-1 and GSTR-3B quarterly but pay tax monthly using a self-assessed challan (PMT-06). It reduces compliance burden.

Who Should You Consult?

It’s always advisable to consult professionals like:

Chartered Accountants (CA)

Qualified experts who assist with accounting, auditing, GST compliance, and financial planning.

GST Practitioners

Registered professionals with in-depth knowledge of GST law who can file returns on your behalf.

Tax Consultants

Specialists who provide guidance on tax planning, filing, and ensuring full legal compliance.

They assist with GST filings, audits, reconciliations, and legal representations.