Implementing the goods and service tax on July 1, 2017 has led to one of India’s greatest tax reforms of all time. GST is a comprehensive tax levied on the supply of goods and services. It replaced all other indirect taxes such as central excise duty, state VAT, central sales tax, purchase tax, etc. So, whether you are a trader, manufacturer or service provider, you need to register under GST to file returns.
If you are wondering how to file GST returns or how many returns in GST you have to file, you can visit the GST login portal to find answers to all your queries and file GST online. First, you should know how to register for GST and how to get your GST number.
In summary
A GST return is a document that businesses registered under GST must file to report their sales, purchases, tax collected, and tax paid during a specific tax period. Filing returns accurately and on time helps businesses remain compliant, claim Input Tax Credit (ITC), and avoid penalties.
- GST return filing: GST return filing is mandatory for businesses whose annual turnover exceeds Rs. 20 lakh (Rs. 10 lakh in special category states), subject to the applicable GST registration rules.
- Important due dates: GSTR-1, which reports outward supplies, is generally due by the 11th of the following month, while GSTR-3B, the summary return, is due by the 20th of the following month.
- QRMP scheme: Businesses with an annual turnover of up to Rs. 5 crore can choose the Quarterly Return Monthly Payment (QRMP) scheme to reduce the frequency of return filing.
- Late filing consequences: Delayed filing attracts a late fee of Rs. 200 per day (Rs. 100 each under CGST and SGST), subject to the prescribed maximum limit of Rs. 5,000.
- Impact of non-filing: Failure to file GST returns on time can block Input Tax Credit (ITC) claims and may also result in suspension of the GSTIN.
To understand how to file GST return correctly and avoid common compliance mistakes, follow the step-by-step filing process explained below. Businesses looking to manage working capital while meeting their tax obligations can also explore a Bajaj Finance Business Loan.
What is the GST return?
A GST return is a document that provides a comprehensive record of your sales, purchases, tax collected on sales (output tax), and tax paid on purchases (input tax). It plays a crucial role in the Goods and Services Tax Network (GSTN) by ensuring compliance with tax regulations. Businesses must file GST returns along with their GST invoices to report transactions accurately. After filing, they are required to settle any outstanding tax liability. Additionally, businesses can claim Input tax credit (ITC) to offset the tax paid on purchases against their tax liability, helping to reduce the overall tax burden.
A GST return is a document that mentions all GST invoices, payments, and receipts for a specific period. A taxpayer is liable to declare all transactions related to the business’s revenue. Basis that the authorities will calculate the amount of tax the company has to pay.
Business owners can file GST online on the official portal provided by the Goods and Services Tax network (GSTN).
While filing GST returns, the registered dealer requires the following details for the concerned period.
- Total sales
- Total purchases
- Output GST (GST paid by customers)
- Input tax credit (ITC), GST paid by the business for purchases.
Once filed, a registered dealer can check GST return filing status online and comply with requirements accordingly.
Additional Read: How to calculate GST
In addition, you also need to understand and choose the correct form before you initiate the GST return filing procedure. There are 11 types of returns applicable under the GST regime, and each form has a different purpose and due date. For example, you will have to file GSTR-1 by the 10th of every month if you are filing details of outward supplies of taxable goods. Once you have this information and know your GST number, choose the appropriate GST form and file GST online by the due date.
Who should file GST return?
All registered business owners and dealers under the GST system are required to file GST returns based on the nature of their business and transactions. These filings apply to:
- Regular businesses
- Businesses registered under the Composition Scheme
- Other business owners and dealers
- Amendments to previously filed returns
- Auto-drafted returns generated by the system
- Tax notices issued by the authorities
Types of GST returns (GSTR)
The types of GST return filed by regular taxpayers include the following.
| Form | Who files it | Filing frequency | Due date* |
|---|---|---|---|
| GSTR 1 | Regular taxpayers reporting outward supplies | Monthly/Quarterly (QRMP) | 11th of the following month or quarter |
| GSTR 2 | Currently suspended | Not applicable | Not applicable |
| GSTR 3 | Currently suspended | Not applicable | Not applicable |
| GSTR 4 | Composition taxpayers | Annually | As notified by the government |
| GSTR 5 | Non-resident taxable persons | Monthly | 13th of the following month |
| GSTR 6 | Input Service Distributors (ISDs) | Monthly | 13th of the following month |
| GSTR 7 | Persons required to deduct TDS under GST | Monthly | 10th of the following month |
| GSTR 8 | E-commerce operators required to collect TCS | Monthly | 10th of the following month |
| GSTR 9 | Regular taxpayers | Annually | 31 December following the relevant financial year (or as notified) |
| GSTR-10 | Taxpayers whose GST registration has been cancelled or surrendered | One-time | Within three months of cancellation or cancellation order |
| GSTR-11 | Persons having a Unique Identity Number (UIN), such as certain embassies and UN bodies | Monthly (where applicable) | 28th of the following month |
*Due dates are subject to changes through government notifications. Refer to the latest GST notifications for the applicable filing schedule.
How to file GST returns online?
Here is a step-by-step guide to file your GST returns online:
Step 1: Register for GSTIN
If you are not yet registered, you must complete the GST registration process to obtain a GSTIN (Goods and Services Tax Identification Number). This 15-digit number is assigned based on your PAN and state of operation.
Step 2: Log in to the GST Portal
Visit the GST portal and log in using your username and password. Once logged in, navigate to the ‘Services’ tab.
Step 3: Access the Returns Dashboard
Click on the ‘Returns Dashboard’ option. You will be prompted to select the financial year and return filing period from the drop-down menu.
Step 4: Choose the Filing Mode
Select the type of return you need to file. If filing online, choose the ‘Prepare Online’ option.
Step 5: Enter Return Details
Fill in the required details accurately. If there are any pending late fees, ensure you include them while filing. After entering the information, save the form and proceed to submit it.
Step 6: Verify Submission Status
After submission, check if the return status has changed to ‘Submitted’. This confirms that your GST return has been successfully filed.
Step 7: Make Tax Payment
Once the return is submitted, click on ‘Payment of Tax’. Use the ‘Check Balance’ option to view your available credit and cash balance before proceeding with the payment.
Step 8: Offset Tax Liability
Click on ‘Offset Liability’ to process the GST payment. After selecting the appropriate declaration checkboxes, proceed by clicking ‘File Form with DSC’ or ‘File Form with EVC’ to complete the payment.
There are multiple GST return forms, each with its own filing process, which may involve additional or fewer steps than outlined above. For detailed instructions on specific forms, refer to the official GST website. It is advisable to use a GST software solution such as TallyPrime to ensure accuracy and compliance during the filing process.
Documents required for GST return filing
For GST return filing, the primary documents you need are your GSTIN, invoice records, and transaction summaries. The documents to file a GST return online should also include accurate place of supply details wherever applicable, as they determine whether CGST, SGST, or IGST is charged.
| Document type | What it includes | Applicable transaction type |
|---|---|---|
| GSTIN details | GSTIN of the taxpayer and customers for B2B transactions | B2B |
| Invoice records | Invoice number, date, place of supply, taxable value, GST rates (CGST, SGST, IGST), GST cess, and reverse charge details | B2B and B2C |
| B2C invoice details | Invoice details for invoices exceeding Rs. 2.5 lakh, taxable value, GST rates, place of supply, and sales summary | B2C |
| Export documents | Customer GSTIN (where applicable), shipping bill details, port code, taxable value, and GST amounts | Export |
| HSN summary | HSN code, product description, UQC, quantity, taxable value, and GST payable | B2B, B2C, and Export |
| Transaction summaries | Credit and debit notes, advance receipts, amendments, e-commerce transactions, and consolidated intra-state and inter-state sales summaries | All applicable transactions |
Keeping these documents organised before filing helps minimise errors, speeds up the return filing process, and supports smoother GST compliance.
GST return filing due dates
| Return form | Due date | Filing frequency |
| GSTR-1 | 11th of the next month | Monthly |
| GSTR-2A | Not Applicable | Auto-drafted |
| GSTR-3B | 20th of the next month | Monthly |
| GSTR-4 | 18th of the month succeeding the quarter | Quarterly |
| GSTR-5 | 20th of the next month | Monthly |
| GSTR-6 | 13th of the next month | Monthly |
| GSTR-7 | 10th of the next month | Monthly |
| GSTR-8 | 10th of the next month | Monthly |
| GSTR-9 | 31st December of the next financial year | Annually |
| GSTR-9C | 31st December of the next financial year | Annually |
| GSTR-10 | Within 3 months of the cancellation date or order, whichever is later | Once |
| GSTR-11 | 28th of the next month | Monthly |
Penalty for Delayed GST Return Filing: Interest and Late Fees
1. Obligation of Timely Filing: Filing GST returns within specified deadlines is crucial to avoid penalties.
2. Interest Charges:
- Applicable at 18% per annum.
- Calculated on the outstanding tax amount.
- Interest accrues from the day after the filing deadline until payment is made.
3. Late Fees Structure:
- Rate: Rs.100 per day per Act (CGST and SGST).
- Total Late Fee: Rs.200 per day.
- Maximum Cap: Rs.5,000.
4. Revised Maximum Late Fees (from June 2021):
- Nil Central Tax Payable: Capped at Rs.250*.
- Turnover up to Rs.1.5 Crore: Capped at Rs.1,000*.
- Turnover between Rs.1.5 Crore and Rs.5 Crore: Capped at Rs.2,500*.
*An equal late fee applies under SGST, with no late fees applicable under IGST.
Additional Read: What is the GSTIN number?
Additional Read: GST Calculator
GST return filing for business loan applicants
GST return filing plays an important role in assessing your business loan eligibility, as it helps lenders verify your business turnover, income consistency, and tax compliance. Lenders, including Bajaj Finance, may review returns such as GSTR-3B and GSTR-9 as part of the income assessment process while evaluating a loan application. Filing GST returns accurately and on time can strengthen your financial profile and support faster loan processing. If you are planning to expand your business, you can explore a business loan from Bajaj Finance to meet your funding requirements.
Can I file GST returns on behalf of my business partner?
Yes, GST return filing on behalf of your business partner is permitted if you are registered as an authorised signatory for the business under the GST Act. An authorised signatory can access the GST portal and file returns on behalf of the registered entity after being added to the GSTIN profile. If you are unsure how to file a GST return on behalf of the business, you can also authorise a Chartered Accountant (CA) or a registered tax practitioner to complete the filing. This helps partnership firms manage GST compliance efficiently while ensuring returns are filed by an authorised person.
Which GST return form is right for a service-based business?
A service-based business generally requires GST return filing through GSTR-1 for reporting outward supplies and GSTR-3B for reporting summary tax liability. The applicable return and filing frequency depend on the business's annual turnover and whether it has opted for the QRMP or Composition Scheme.
| Business type | Primary form(s) | Filing frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Service provider with turnover above Rs. 5 crore | GSTR-1 and GSTR-3B | Monthly (GSTR-1 due by the 11th and GSTR-3B by the 20th of the following month) |
| Service provider with turnover up to Rs. 5 crore | GSTR-1 and GSTR-3B under the QRMP Scheme | GSTR-1 quarterly; GSTR-3B monthly payment or quarterly return under QRMP |
| Composition Scheme service provider (where eligible) | GSTR-4 | Annual return with quarterly tax payment through challans |
Eligible businesses with a turnover up to Rs. 5 crore can consider the QRMP Scheme to reduce their GST compliance burden. For a step-by-step guide on how to file a GST return, refer to the filing process explained above.
Can I file a GST return online as a small business?
Yes, GST return filing can be completed online by a small business with limited employees, provided the business is registered under GST and complies with the applicable filing requirements. You can file GST returns online through the GST portal without appointing a Chartered Accountant or tax consultant, especially if your transactions are straightforward. Even if there are no business transactions during a tax period, you must file a nil GST return to avoid late fees and compliance issues. Businesses looking to expand can also explore a business loan from Bajaj Finance, where GST returns may be considered as part of the income assessment process.
