return-filing

GST RETURN FILING

GST Return Filing in India

Overview

Businesses registered under GST are required to file GST returns on a monthly, quarterly, or annual basis depending on their business type. These returns must include details of all sales and purchases of goods and services along with the tax collected and paid.

The introduction of a unified Goods and Services Tax (GST) system in India has streamlined taxpayer services such as registration, return filing, and compliance, ensuring uniformity across the nation.

Types of GST Returns

Individual taxpayers filing GST returns are required to submit the following four forms:

• Returns for supplies made (outward supplies)
• Returns for purchases made (inward supplies)
• Monthly GST returns
• Annual GST returns

Mandatory Compliance

GST return filing is mandatory for all entities that have a valid GST registration—regardless of the nature of business activity, sales volume, or profit. Even dormant businesses with valid GSTINs must file their returns to stay compliant.

What is a GST Return?

A GST return is a document that provides the details of a taxpayer’s income (sales) and expenses (purchases), which must be submitted to the tax authorities within the prescribed timelines.

Documents Required for GST Return Filing

• Invoices issued to GST-registered entities (B2B invoices)
• Invoices issued to unregistered persons (B2C invoices) — if the total value exceeds ₹2.5 lakhs
• Consolidated details of all inter-state sales
• HSN-wise summary of goods sold
• Any debit or credit notes, or advance receipts issued

Who Should File GST Returns?

• Any individual or business with a valid GSTIN must file GST returns compulsorily.
• Entities with an annual turnover exceeding ₹20 lakh must register under GST and file returns.
• For businesses operating in special category states, the turnover threshold is ₹10 lakh.