How To File GST Returns: A Detailed Guide To GST Filing In India

The Goods and Services Tax (GST) has revolutionized India's tax system, and understanding how to file GST returns is essential for businesses and individuals. In this article, we will explore about GST return filing process in simple, easy-to-follow steps. 

Whether you are an experienced taxpayer or new to GST, our guide will provide you with a proper guide to navigate the process successfully. Read On.

How To File GST Returns Online & Offline?

Filing GST returns is a straightforward process that can be done using the software provided by the Goods and Services Tax Network (GSTN). This software will help auto-populate the necessary forms, making it easier for taxpayers.

1) Online Filing Process:

The online filing process for GST returns involves the following steps:

Step 1: The first step is to visit the official website www.gst.gov.in. 

Step 2: You'll receive a 15-digit number based on your state code and PAN number.

Step 3: Upload each invoice, and you'll receive a reference number for each one.

Step 4: Proceed to file outward returns, inward returns, and cumulative monthly returns. Any errors can be corrected.

Step 5: File the outward supply returns using GSTR-1 on the GST Common Portal by the 10th of the month.

Step 6: The details of outward supplies provided by the supplier will be available from GSTR-2A.

Step 7: Recipients are required to confirm the information regarding outward supplies and submit records for credit or debit notes.

Step 8: Fill out the information about the inward supplies of both goods and services using the GSTR-2 form.

Step 9: Suppliers can accept or reject the details provided by the inward supplies in GSTR-1A.

2) Offline Process:

You should download the offline tool to file GST returns offline. Once downloaded, you can easily complete the GSTR-1 and GSTR-2 forms. Follow the provided link for detailed steps.

What Are GST Returns?

GST Returns refer to specific forms that taxpayers are required to submit. There are approximately 22 different types of GST forms available, and among these, 11 are currently active, 8 are view-only, and 3 are suspended. The choice of which GST forms to file depends on the type of taxpayer's registration.

Understanding GST Returns goes hand in hand with knowing the different types of taxpayers. There are seven categories of taxpayers, including

1. Regular taxpayer

2. Composition taxable persons

3. TDS deductors

4. Non-resident taxpayers

5. Input Service Distributors

6. Casual taxable persons

7. E-commerce operators

It's also important to note that GST Returns can be filed on a quarterly, monthly, or annual basis. With this understanding of GST return filing, let's explore the various types of GST returns.

How To Download GST Returns Form?

To download GST returns from the government portal, follow these straightforward steps:

Step 1: To download the GST returns, firstly you need to log in to the GST portal.

Step 2: Navigate to Service → Returns → Returns Dashboard.

Step 3: Select the month and year from the provided drop-down options.

Step 4: Click on "PREPARE OFFLINE."

Step 5: Go to "Download" and click on "GENERATE FILE."

Step 6: Find and click on the "Click Here" link to download a ZIP file.

Step 7: To open this file, use the GST offline tool by selecting "Open" under "Open Downloaded Return file from the GST portal."

You can follow the same procedure for downloading other GSTR files.

Types of GST Forms & Who Should File?

GSTR-1: GSTR-1 can be used by businesses & individuals who are registered under the GST and are required to report their outward supplies or sales.

GSTR-2A: Autofill form that is view-only

GSTR 2B: View-only form

GSTR 3B: GSTR-3B is used by regular taxpayers to summarize their outward and inward supplies and make tax payments. It is to be filled by the normal taxpayer

GSTR-4 is required to be filed by a composition dealer who has chosen the composition scheme.

GSTR-5: GSTR-5 is a return that should be filed by foreign non-resident individuals or businesses operating in India.

GSTR-5A: Non-resident OIDAR service providers

GSTR-6 is a return that must be filed by an Input Service Distributor (ISD).

GSTR-7 is a return that is submitted by individuals or entities who are required to deduct Tax Deducted at Source (TDS) under the GST system.

GSTR-8: Filed by e-commerce operators

GSTR-9: Taxpayers registered under GST

GSTR 9C: Taxpayers registered under GST

GSTR-10: For finalizing and filing the GST return when a taxpayer's GST registration is canceled or surrendered

GSTR-11: This GSTR11 form is for refund claims by foreign diplomatic embassies

How to check Status of Your GST Returns?

Checking the status of your GST returns is a straightforward process. Just follow these steps:

1. Visit the official portal at https://www.gst.gov.in/. 

2. Log in with your details.

3. Go to "Service," then select "Returns," and click on "Track Returns Status."

4. After this, you need to choose the option "Status of Return" available in the drop-down menu.

5. Click the "Search" button.

The status could appear as "TO BE FILED," "SUBMITTED BUT NOT FILED," "FILED-VALID," or "FILED-INVALID." 

This process simplifies tracking your GST return filing status, making it easier and more efficient.

Penalty for Late Filing of GST Returns

Late filing of GST returns can lead to a daily penalty of Rs. 200 (Rs. 100 each for CGST and SGST). The maximum penalty is Rs. 5,000. IGST does not have late fees. 

You will also need to pay 18% interest annually on the outstanding tax, calculated from the day after the due date until the actual payment. Note that the penalty rate might change, and updates will be communicated officially.

Also Read: What Are The Exempted Services Under The GST Act 2017