Running a business in India today means staying compliant with the Goods and Services Tax (GST) system. Whether youβre a freelancer, small business owner, or managing a growing enterprise, understanding GST registration and return filing is essential.
πΉ What is GST?
Goods and Services Tax (GST) is a unified indirect tax that replaced multiple state and central taxes in India. It is levied on the supply of goods and services β ensuring transparency and simplifying the taxation process.
The main categories under GST are:
- CGST (Central GST) β collected by the Central Government
- SGST (State GST) β collected by the State Government
- IGST (Integrated GST) β applied on inter-state supplies
πΉ Who Should Register for GST?
You must register for GST if:
- Your annual turnover exceeds βΉ40 lakhs (βΉ20 lakhs for service providers).
- You are engaged in inter-state supply of goods or services.
- You are an e-commerce seller or aggregator.
- You are a casual taxable person or a non-resident taxable person.
- You want to claim Input Tax Credit (ITC) and issue tax invoices.
Even if your turnover is below the threshold, voluntary registration can help enhance business credibility and allow you to claim ITC.
πΉ Documents Required for GST Registration
- PAN card of the business or applicant
- Aadhaar card of the proprietor/partners/directors
- Business address proof (electricity bill, rent agreement, etc.)
- Bank account details
- Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) β for companies/LLPs
πΉ Types of GST Returns
Registered taxpayers must file GST returns periodically. The key types include:
| Return Type | Description | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| GSTR-1 | Details of outward supplies (sales) | Monthly/Quarterly |
| GSTR-3B | Summary return of sales, purchases & tax liability | Monthly |
| GSTR-9 | Annual return | Annually |
| GSTR-9C | Reconciliation statement (for turnover above βΉ5 crore) | Annually |
πΉ Importance of Timely GST Return Filing
Filing GST returns on time helps:
β
Avoid late fees and penalties
β
Maintain a good compliance rating
β
Ensure smooth flow of Input Tax Credit
β
Build credibility for government tenders and partnerships
πΉ How a CA Can Help You
Managing GST compliance can be time-consuming. A qualified Chartered Accountant ensures:
- Proper registration and documentation
- Accurate GST return filing
- Reconciliation of sales & purchase data
- Advisory on tax planning and compliance
With expert assistance, you can focus on your business while staying worry-free about deadlines and errors.
πΌ Need Help with GST Registration or Return Filing?
Our team of experienced Chartered Accountants provides end-to-end GST services β from registration and advisory to monthly return filing and annual compliance.
π Contact us today to simplify your GST process and ensure your business stays 100% compliant.