GST Return Filing Guide (Types, Eligibility, and Compliance)
GST return filing is a crucial compliance requirement for businesses registered under the Goods and Services Tax (GST) regime in India. This guide provides a detailed look into the types of GST returns, eligibility criteria, filing process, and timelines, ensuring a smooth filing experience.
Governing Act and Rules
- GST Act: Governed under the Central Goods and Services Tax (CGST) Act, 2017 and State GST (SGST) Act, 2017.
- GST Rules: Compliance is regulated through GST return rules under these acts, with strict timelines and penalties for non-compliance.
Types of GST Returns
Different GST returns apply depending on the nature and turnover of the business:
| Return Type | Applicable for | Filing Frequency | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| GSTR-1 | Regular taxpayers | Monthly/Quarterly | Details of outward supplies (sales) |
| GSTR-2A/2B | Regular taxpayers | Auto-populated | Auto-populated for ITC (Input Tax Credit) from vendor supplies |
| GSTR-3B | Regular taxpayers | Monthly/Quarterly | Summary of total sales, ITC, and tax liability |
| GSTR-4 | Composition scheme taxpayers | Annually | Summary of sales and tax paid under the composition scheme |
| GSTR-5 | Non-resident foreign taxpayers | Monthly | Return of outward supplies by foreign taxpayers in India |
| GSTR-6 | Input Service Distributors | Monthly | Details of ITC received and distributed |
| GSTR-7 | Tax deductors (TDS) | Monthly | Details of TDS deducted and paid under GST |
| GSTR-8 | E-commerce operators | Monthly | Details of supplies and TCS collected |
| GSTR-9 | Regular taxpayers | Annually | Annual return summarizing all monthly/quarterly returns |
| GSTR-9A | Composition scheme taxpayers | Annually | Annual return for composition taxpayers |
| GSTR-9C | Taxpayers with turnover over ₹5 crore | Annually | Reconciliation statement, certified by a CA |
| GSTR-10 | Final return on cancellation | One-time | Filed when GST registration is canceled |
| GSTR-11 | UIN holders | Monthly | Details of inward supplies by UIN holders (e.g., embassies) |
Who Should Mandatorily File GST Returns?
- Businesses with Annual Turnover > ₹20 lakh (₹10 lakh for North Eastern states) must register and file GST returns.
- Composition Scheme Holders with turnover up to ₹1.5 crore need to file GSTR-4 annually.
- E-commerce Operators collecting TCS file GSTR-8 monthly.
- Non-Resident Foreign Taxpayers, Input Service Distributors, TDS/TCS Deductors, and UIN holders are also required to file applicable returns.
Who Is Exempt from GST Filing?
- Entities without taxable income or turnover below ₹20 lakh (or ₹10 lakh in North Eastern states).
- Agriculturists and small businesses involved solely in exempted goods or services.
Step-by-Step Filing Process for GST Returns
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Step 1
Log in to the GST Portal
Go to the official GST portal and log in with your GSTIN and password.
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Step 2
Select the Appropriate Return Type
Depending on your business type and turnover, choose the relevant return from the dashboard (e.g., GSTR-1, GSTR-3B).
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Step 3
Enter Required Details
For GSTR-1: Enter outward supply details (sales invoices) and upload them. For GSTR-3B: Enter summary details of sales, purchases, tax liability, and ITC.
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Step 4
Review Auto-Populated Information
GSTR-2A or GSTR-2B will show ITC available from vendor invoices, auto-populated from supplier filings.
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Step 5
Payment of GST Liability
Pay the GST amount due via net banking, credit/debit card, or NEFT/RTGS.
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Step 6
File and Submit
Use an OTP for authentication or a DSC/EVC to file and submit the return. A confirmation message will indicate successful filing.
Due Dates for GST Return Filing
| Return Type | Due Date | Filing Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| GSTR-1 | 11th of the following month or 13th for quarterly | Monthly/Quarterly |
| GSTR-3B | 20th of the following month | Monthly/Quarterly |
| GSTR-4 | April 30 | Annually |
| GSTR-5, 6, 7, 8 | 20th, 13th, 10th, 10th of the following month | Monthly |
| GSTR-9, 9A, 9C | December 31 | Annually |
| GSTR-10 | Within three months of cancellation date | One-time |
Penalties for Non-Compliance
- Late Fees: ₹50 per day (₹25 CGST + ₹25 SGST) capped at ₹5,000 per return. Composition taxpayers have a penalty of ₹20 per day.
- Interest: 18% interest on delayed payment of tax liability. Calculate interest on outstanding taxes from the due date until payment.
- Legal Action: Persistent default may lead to cancellation of GST registration and potential penalties under GST rules.
Benefits of GST Return Filing with YathraFin
- Timely Filing: YathraFin ensures timely and accurate filing to avoid penalties.
- Error-Free Process: Advanced software identifies errors before filing, ensuring smooth compliance.
- Detailed ITC Calculation: We help optimize Input Tax Credit, reducing overall tax liability.
- Expert Support: A dedicated team of tax professionals is available to address queries and resolve filing issues.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
These FAQs cover essential details like eligibility, required documents, process steps, and benefits. It helps clarify common queries about setup, compliance, costs, and timelines.
It is a monthly summary return showing total sales, purchases, tax liability, and ITC claimed.
All regular taxpayers (excluding composition dealers) with an annual turnover exceeding ₹2 crore.
No, GST returns cannot be revised. Errors can be adjusted in subsequent returns.
Yes, GSTR-4 is mandatory for composition scheme holders.
Businesses below ₹20 lakh turnover are exempt from GST registration and filing.
ITC can be claimed for eligible purchases where tax has been paid and is reflected in GSTR-2A/2B.
₹50 per day (₹25 CGST + ₹25 SGST), capped at ₹5,000.
Only for taxpayers with an annual turnover above ₹5 crore, requiring CA certification.
Submit an application for cancellation on the GST portal with supporting details.
Auto-generated returns showing ITC from suppliers’ GSTR-1 filings.
Non-resident foreign taxpayers supplying goods/services in India.
Yes, registered taxpayers must file nil returns even if there’s no transaction.
Monthly, based on GSTR-3B filing.
Yes, it’s recommended due to complexities in calculation and compliance.
ITC is only allowed for eligible business-related purchases.
For tax deductors submitting details of TDS under GST.
10th of the following month, filed by e-commerce operators collecting TCS.
Adjustments can be made in subsequent returns if errors are identified.
Avoids penalties, ensures proper tax planning, and strengthens business compliance.
YathraFin provides end-to-end GST support, from return preparation to filing, ensuring full compliance.