What Are the Different Types of GST Returns, and When Should They Be Filed?

Understanding the different types of GST returns and their respective filing dates is crucial for every business registered under the Goods and Services Tax (GST) regime. This blog will guide you through the various GST return types and the timelines for filing them.

What is GSTR-1, and when should it be filed?

GSTR-1 is a monthly or quarterly return that captures the details of all outward supplies made by a business.

• Purpose: It includes details of sales made to registered and unregistered persons.
• Who Should File: All registered taxpayers except those under the composition scheme.
• Monthly Filing: Due on the 11th of the following month for businesses with turnover above ₹5 crore.
• Quarterly Filing: Due on the 13th of the month following the quarter for small taxpayers.
• Invoice-Level Details: Must include B2B and B2C invoice details.
• Revisions: Amendments can be made in the subsequent periods.

What is GSTR-3B, and when is the filing date?

GSTR-3B is a self-declared summary return that reflects the net tax liability for a specific period.

• Purpose: To declare the summary of sales, purchases, input tax credit (ITC), and tax liabilities.
• Filing Frequency: Filed monthly by all taxpayers, regardless of turnover.
• Due Date: Typically due on the 20th of the following month.
• Simple Format: Does not require invoice-level details.
• Payment of Taxes: Taxes must be paid before filing GSTR-3B.
• Revisions Not Allowed: Once filed, no changes can be made.

What are GSTR-2A and 2B, and why are they important?

GSTR-2A and 2B are auto-drafted returns that capture details of inward supplies based on the data furnished by the suppliers.

• GSTR-2A: Dynamic return that reflects changes in real-time as suppliers file their returns.
• GSTR-2B: Static return, generated on the 14th of the month, providing a clear picture of eligible ITC.
• Purpose: To assist in claiming accurate ITC.
• Not Filed by Taxpayers: These returns are auto-generated and cannot be filed.
• Reconciliation: Should be reconciled with purchase records to ensure ITC accuracy.
• Discrepancies: Any mismatches need to be addressed with the supplier.

What is GSTR-4, and when should it be filed?

GSTR-4 is an annual return filed by taxpayers who have opted for the composition scheme.

• Purpose: Captures summary details of outward supplies, tax paid, and inward supplies.
• Eligibility: For businesses under the composition scheme with a turnover of up to ₹1.5 crore.
• Filing Date: Due on the 30th of April following the financial year.
• Quarterly Payment: Tax payments are made quarterly using CMP-08.
• Simplified Return: Fewer compliance requirements compared to regular taxpayers.
• Late Filing Penalties: Delayed filing attracts penalties.

What is GSTR-5, and when is it due?

GSTR-5 is a return filed by non-resident taxpayers who conduct business in India.

• Purpose: Captures details of outward and inward supplies, along with tax liabilities.
• Who Should File: Non-resident taxpayers who have registered for GST in India.
• Filing Frequency: Filed monthly.
• Due Date: 20th of the following month or within seven days after the expiry of registration.
• Tax Payment: Taxes must be paid before filing the return.
• Invoice-Level Reporting: Includes all transactions made during the period.

What is GSTR-6, and what is its filing schedule?

GSTR-6 is a monthly return filed by Input Service Distributors (ISD) to distribute the input tax credit among the branches.

• Purpose: To distribute ITC on services to the respective units.
• Eligibility: Filed by ISDs only.
• Filing Date: Due on the 13th of the following month.
• Details Required: Must include details of input services received, ITC distributed, and amendments.
• Reconciliation with GSTR-2A: Cross-checking with suppliers' returns is essential.
• ITC Distribution: Accurate distribution ensures compliance and reduces errors.

What is GSTR-7, and when should it be filed?

GSTR-7 is a monthly return for taxpayers who are required to deduct tax at source under GST.

• Purpose: Captures details of tax deducted at source and payments made.
• Who Should File: Applicable to government bodies and entities mandated to deduct TDS.
• Filing Date: Due on the 10th of the following month.
• Deduction Reporting: Must include details of deductees and the TDS amount.
• Reconciliation: Ensures TDS claims by the deductees match the details in GSTR-7.
• Penalties for Late Filing: Non-compliance results in interest and late fees.

What is GSTR-8, and when is the filing deadline?

GSTR-8 is a monthly return filed by e-commerce operators who collect tax at source (TCS).

• Purpose: To capture details of supplies made through the platform and TCS collected.
• Eligibility: E-commerce operators registered under GST.
• Filing Date: Due on the 10th of the following month.
• TCS Details: Must report the TCS collected on behalf of suppliers.
• Supplier Matching: Suppliers can claim TCS in their returns.
• Compliance Requirement: Ensures proper reporting of transactions through e-commerce platforms.

What is GSTR-9, and when is it due?

GSTR-9 is the annual return that summarizes the monthly or quarterly returns filed throughout the year.

• Purpose: Provides a comprehensive view of the year's transactions, including sales, purchases, and ITC.
• Who Should File: All regular taxpayers, except those under the composition scheme.
• Filing Date: Due on the 31st of December following the financial year.
• Details Required: Must include data from GSTR-1, GSTR-3B, and ITC claims.
• Reconciliation: Essential for identifying discrepancies and correcting errors.
• Penalty for Late Filing: Attracts a late fee and interest.

What is GSTR-10, and when must it be filed?

GSTR-10 is the final return that must be filed when a taxpayer's GST registration is canceled.

• Purpose: To account for all liabilities and ITC at the time of deregistration.
• Who Should File: Businesses whose GST registration has been canceled.
• Filing Date: Must be filed within three months of cancellation or the order date.
• Details Required: Must include final inventory and ITC details.
• Closing Liabilities: Ensure all dues are cleared before filing.
• Documentation: Proper records are required to support the final return.

Conclusion: Staying Compliant with GST Return Filing

Understanding the different types of GST returns and their respective filing dates is essential for ensuring compliance and avoiding penalties. Regular and accurate filing helps maintain a good compliance record and supports the smooth operation of your business.