GST Filing in India: Everything You Need to Know About Returns & Deadlines

Failing to file GST returns on time can result in penalties, interest, and compliance issues, making it crucial for businesses to understand the filing process. In this guide, we will cover everything about GST filing, including:

• What is GST Filing?

• Types of GST Returns (GSTR-1, GSTR-3B, GSTR-9, etc.)

• Who Should File GST Returns?

• GST Filing Deadlines & Late Fees

• How to File GST Online – Step-by-Step Guide

• Common Mistakes to Avoid

By the end of this guide, you’ll have a clear understanding of how GST compliance works and how you can ensure smooth tax filing for your business.

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What is GST Filing?

GST filing is the process by which registered businesses submit periodic statements to the GST department detailing their sales, purchases, and tax collected. These returns help the government track tax liabilities, ensure compliance, and facilitate the input tax credit mechanism, which prevents double taxation.

Every GST-registered taxpayer must file returns based on their turnover, business type, and GST registration category. The frequency of filing depends on whether they opt for monthly, quarterly, or annual filing.

Example:
A business selling goods worth ₹10 lakh in a month must report this transaction and pay the applicable GST through the GST return filing process.

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Types of GST Returns in India

The GST system includes multiple types of returns, each serving a specific purpose. Below are the most important GST returns businesses need to file:

1️⃣ GSTR-1 (Monthly/Quarterly Sales Report)

• Filed by regular taxpayers to report outward supplies (sales).

• Due Date: 11th of every month (for businesses with turnover > ₹5 Cr) or quarterly for small businesses under the QRMP scheme.

2️⃣ GSTR-3B (Summary of GST Liabilities & ITC)

• A self-declared summary return showing total sales, tax liability, input tax credit (ITC), and GST paid.

• Due Date: 20th of every month.

3️⃣ GSTR-9 (Annual GST Return)

• Filed by regular taxpayers summarizing yearly sales, purchases, and tax liabilities.

• Due Date: 31st December of the following financial year.

4️⃣ GSTR-4 (For Composition Scheme Taxpayers)

• Filed by small businesses registered under the Composition Scheme (turnover ≤ ₹1.5 Cr).

• Due Date: 30th April of the next financial year.

5️⃣ GSTR-5 & GSTR-6

• GSTR-5: Filed by non-resident foreign taxpayers doing business in India.

• GSTR-6: Filed by Input Service Distributors (ISD) to distribute ITC among branches.

6️⃣ GSTR-7 & GSTR-8

• GSTR-7: Filed by businesses deducting TDS under GST.

• GSTR-8: Filed by e-commerce operators collecting TCS (Tax Collected at Source).

Who Should File GST Returns?

Not every business is required to file GST returns. However, you must file if you fall into any of these categories:

✔ Businesses with Turnover Above ₹20 Lakh (₹10 Lakh for NE & Hill States) – Required to register under GST and file returns regularly.
✔ E-commerce Operators (Amazon, Flipkart, etc.) – Must collect and report TCS on sales.
✔ Exporters & Importers – Need to file GST returns for claiming refunds & input tax credit.
✔ Businesses Opting for the Composition Scheme – Must file GSTR-4 quarterly.
✔ Freelancers & Service Providers – Required to file GSTR-1 & GSTR-3B if registered.

Even if you have no transactions in a particular period, you must file a Nil GST return to avoid penalties.

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GST Filing Deadlines & Late Fees

Missing GST return deadlines can result in penalties and interest charges. Below is a breakdown of important GST deadlines and late fees:

1️⃣ GST Return Deadlines:

2️⃣ Late Fees for GST Filing:

• ₹50 per day (₹25 CGST + ₹25 SGST) for regular taxpayers.

• ₹20 per day (₹10 CGST + ₹10 SGST) for NIL returns.

• Interest of 18% per annum on the outstanding tax amount.

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How to File GST Online – Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these simple steps to file your GST returns online:

Step 1: Log in to the GST Portal

Visit gst.gov.in and log in using your GSTIN & password.

Step 2: Select the Correct GST Return Form

• Choose GSTR-1, GSTR-3B, or other relevant forms based on your business type.

Step 3: Enter Sales & Purchase Details

• Input outward & inward supplies, taxable amount, and ITC details.

Step 4: Validate & Submit the Return

• Review details and submit the return online.

Step 5: Pay GST & Download Acknowledgment

• Make the necessary GST payment and download GST filing confirmation.

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Common GST Filing Mistakes & How to Avoid Them

🚨 1. Incorrect GSTIN or Invoice Details
🔹 Always verify GSTIN, invoice number, and HSN/SAC codes before filing.

🚨 2. Failing to Claim Input Tax Credit (ITC) Properly
🔹 Ensure all eligible purchases are claimed for ITC to reduce tax liability.

🚨 3. Late GST Filing & Payment
🔹 Set reminders to avoid penalties and late fees.

🚨 4. Not Filing NIL Returns When Required
🔹 Even if no sales occur, file a NIL return to avoid compliance issues.

🚨 5. Mismatched Data Between GSTR-1 & GSTR-3B
🔹 Cross-check figures before submission to avoid GST department scrutiny.

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Conclusion

Filing GST returns accurately and on time is essential for compliance, avoiding penalties, and ensuring smooth business operations. Whether you're a small business owner, freelancer, or large enterprise, understanding the types of GST returns, deadlines, and filing process will help you manage taxes efficiently.

Need expert GST filing assistance? Contact Pathak Associates today! 🚀