Basic Understanding of GST Compliance

The Goods and Services Tax (GST) has revolutionized the indirect tax landscape in India. While it has simplified taxation to a great extent, it has also brought about a complex web of compliances that businesses need to adhere to. Understanding and fulfilling these compliances is crucial for businesses to avoid penalties and legal hassles.

Key GST Compliances

1. Registration: Every business with an aggregate turnover exceeding the threshold limit as specified under GST law is mandatorily required to register under GST. The registration process involves obtaining a GSTIN (Goods and Services Tax Identification Number) and filing the required forms online.
2. Maintenance of Books of Accounts: All GST-registered businesses are required to maintain proper books of accounts, including records of sales, purchases, and input tax credits. These records should be kept for a minimum of five years.
3. Issuing GST Invoices: GST invoices serve as the primary documents for recording transactions and claiming input tax credits. These invoices must adhere to specific format and data requirements, including:
   • GSTIN of the supplier and recipient
   • Invoice number and date
   • Description of goods or services
   • HSN (Harmonized System of Nomenclature) code for goods or SAC (Services Accounting Code) for services
   • Taxable value, CGST (Central GST), SGST/IGST (State GST/Interstate GST), and total GST amount
4. Filing GST Returns: Filing GST returns is a crucial aspect of GST compliance. The frequency of return filing depends on the turnover of the business. There are various types of GST returns, each serving a specific purpose.
5. Maintaining a GST Compliance Calendar: Staying on top of GST compliance deadlines is crucial for avoiding penalties and legal issues. Businesses should maintain a GST compliance calendar that outlines the due dates for various GST-related tasks, such as return filing, tax payment, and audit deadlines. This structured approach helps businesses manage their GST obligations effectively.
6. Reverse Charge Mechanism (RCM):
   • RCM applies when the recipient is liable to pay GST instead of the supplier.
   • Businesses need to identify and record RCM transactions separately and comply with the related formalities.
7. Input Tax Credit (ITC):
   • Businesses can claim ITC on GST paid on purchases, subject to certain conditions.
   • Maintaining accurate records of input and output tax is crucial for availing ITC.
8. E-way Bill Compliance:
   • For the movement of goods exceeding a specified value, businesses need to generate an e-way bill.
   • The e-way bill should accompany the goods during transit.
9. GST Compliance Audits: The GST department conducts periodic audits to verify compliance with GST regulations. These audits involve scrutinizing business records, invoices, and returns to ensure that the business is adhering to all applicable GST rules. Businesses should maintain proper documentation and be prepared to cooperate with GST audit authorities to avoid any discrepancies or penalties.
10. Compliance with GST Council Notifications:
    • Regularly monitoring and adhering to notifications and circulars issued by the GST Council is essential for staying compliant.

Types of GST Returns

1. GSTR-1: This monthly return is filed by all GST-registered businesses to declare details of all outward supplies made during the tax period.
2. GSTR-3B: This is a simplified monthly return filed by GST-registered businesses to make payment of their GST liabilities for the tax period.
3. GSTR-4: This annual return is filed by businesses opting for the composition scheme.
4. GSTR-5: This non-resident taxpayer return is filed by non-resident entities who make taxable supplies in India
5. GSTR-6: This monthly return is filed by Input service distributor. It contains details of ITC received by an Input Service Distributor and distribution of ITC.
6. GSTR-7: This monthly return is filed by individuals who deduct tax at source or TDS under the Goods and Services Tax (GST). The form contains details of TDS deducted, TDS payable, TDS refund, etc.
7. GSTR-8: This monthly return is filed by e-commerce operators registered under the GST
8. GSTR-9: This annual return is filed by specified GST-registered businesses to consolidate and reconcile their GST transactions for the entire financial year.
9. GSTR-10: This return is filed by the registered taxable persons who have opted for the cancellation of the GST registration.
10. GSTR-11: This return is filed by the persons who have been issued a Unique Identity Number and claims a refund of the taxes paid on their inward supplies.

Consequences of Non-Compliance

Non-compliance with GST regulations can lead to severe consequences, including:

1. Late filing fees: Penalties for late filing of GST returns range from Rs. 50 per day to Rs. 5,000, depending on the type of return and the delay.
2. Interest on unpaid tax: Businesses are liable to pay interest on unpaid GST at the rate of 18% per annum.
3. Penalties for non-payment of tax: Penalties for non-payment of GST can be as high as 100% of the tax amount.
4. Criminal prosecution: In severe cases, non-compliance can lead to criminal prosecution and imprisonment.

Compliance Checklist

To ensure GST compliance, businesses should follow these guidelines:

1. Regularly update knowledge of GST regulations: GST regulations are constantly evolving, so businesses need to stay updated on the latest changes.
2. Maintain accurate records: Proper maintenance of books of accounts and GST invoices is crucial for compliance.
3. File GST returns on time: Timely filing of GST returns is essential to avoid penalties and interest charges.
4. Utilize GST software: GST software can automate many compliance tasks, reducing the risk of errors and omissions.
5. Seek professional guidance: Consult a tax advisor for personalized advice on GST compliance and return filing.

Conclusion

Navigating the waters of GST compliances can be intricate, but with a clear understanding of the key requirements, businesses can ensure smooth sailing. Compliance not only avoids penalties but also contributes to the overall efficiency and transparency of the business operations. Staying updated with changes in GST laws and leveraging technology for compliance management can go a long way in ensuring a hassle-free GST journey for businesses. Remember, compliance is not just a legal obligation; it is a strategic investment in the sustainability and growth of your business.

DISCLAIMER:

The information contained herein is in summary form and is prepared based on the provisions of GST and allied laws and related Rules, Circulars, Notifications therein. For details, please refer the relevant provisions. While the information is believed to be accurate to the best of our knowledge, we do not make any representations or warranties, express or implied, as to the accuracy or completeness of this information. Reader should conduct and rely upon their own examination and analysis and are advised to seek their own professional advice. We accept no responsibility for any errors it may contain, whether caused by negligence or otherwise or for any loss, howsoever caused or sustained, by the person who relies upon it.

To download the pdf file of the above post, please click on the download button below.

About Our GST & Indirect Tax Services

Our GST & Indirect Tax Services team focuses on resolving practical issues faced by taxpayers and businesses while ensuring due compliance with complex legislation. Our services extend from timely and systematic support for GST compliances to advisory on a wide range of contemporary indirect tax issues and GST litigation support.

Our team of GST Consultants possesses in depth experience across diverse sectors and offer tailored solutions for tax optimization while ensuring due compliance with this complex and dynamic legal transaction regime law. To know more about our services, visit https://dpncglobal.com/gst-indirect-tax/