Overview

Goods and Services Tax (GST) Return Filing is the process of reporting details of sales, purchases, tax collected and tax paid to the government. Registered businesses under GST must file returns periodically, depending on their category, turnover and applicable scheme. Returns are filed online through the online GST portal, ensuring transparency and compliance with tax regulations.

Filing GST returns is not mere a legal obligation but also a vital part of business operations, as it keeps your business compliant, enables seamless Input Tax Credit (ITC) and avoids penalties.

Why File GST Returns?

• Legal Compliance: Mandatory for all businesses registered under GST.
• Claim Input Tax Credit: Avail tax credit on purchases to reduce overall tax liability.
• Maintain Transparency: Builds credibility with stakeholders and government authorities.
• Avoid Penalties: Timely filing prevents fines, late fees and interest charges.
• Ease of Business Operations: Ensures smooth transactions and business credibility.

Types of GST Returns

The type of return depends on the nature of the business. Key returns include:

1. GSTR-1: Return for outward supplies (sales).

• Monthly: Due 11th of next month.
• Quarterly (QRMP Scheme): Due 13th of the month following the quarter.

2. GSTR-3B: Summary return of sales, purchases and tax liability.

• Monthly: Due 20th of next month.
• Quarterly (QRMP): Due 22nd or 24th of the following month (based on state).
• Update (from July 2025): Tax liability cannot be edited directly; corrections must be made in GSTR-1A before filing GSTR-3B.

3. GSTR-4: Annual return for composition scheme taxpayers, due by 30th April of the following financial year.

4. GSTR-5: Monthly return for non-resident taxpayers (due 20th of next month).

5. GSTR-6: Monthly return for Input Service Distributors (due 13th of next month).

6. GSTR-7: Monthly return for entities deducting TDS under GST (due 10th of next month).

7. GSTR-8: Monthly return for e-commerce operators collecting TCS (due 10th of next month).

8. GSTR-9: Annual return for regular taxpayers (due 31st December following the financial year).

9. GSTR-9C: Reconciliation statement for taxpayers with turnover above ₹5 crore, due along with GSTR-9.

10. GSTR-10: Final return when GST registration is cancelled (within 3 months of cancellation/order).

Process of Filing GST Returns

1. Collect details of sales, purchases, invoices and input tax credit.
2. Login to GST Portal using GSTIN and password.
3. Choose the relevant return (GSTR form) for your business.
4. Upload invoice-wise details of sales and purchases.
5. Review and reconcile data with suppliers’/customers’ records.
6. Pay tax liability (after adjusting ITC).
7. Submit the return online and download the acknowledgment.

Documents Required

• GSTIN (GST Identification Number)
• Sales and purchase invoices
• Debit and credit notes
• HSN/SAC codes of goods and services
• Bank account details
• Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) for companies/LLPs
• Login credentials for GST portal

Timeline for Filing GST Returns

• GSTR-1: 11th of next month (monthly) or last day of next month after quarter (quarterly).
• GSTR-3B: 20th of next month (varies based on turnover/state).
• GSTR-4: 30th of April following the financial year (composition scheme).
• GSTR-5: 20th of next month.
• GSTR-6: 13th of next month.
• GSTR-7 & 8: 10th of next month.
• GSTR-9: 31st December following the financial year.
• GSTR-9C: Along with GSTR-9.
• GSTR-10: Within 3 months of cancellation of registration.

Fees / Penalties for Late Filing

• Late Fees: ₹50 per day (₹25 CGST + ₹25 SGST).
• Nil Returns: ₹20 per day (₹10 CGST + ₹10 SGST).
• Interest: 18% per annum on outstanding tax liability.
• Professional/consultancy charges may apply if using service providers.

FAQs