GST return is a document that registered taxpayers must file regularly with details of supplies made, taxes paid and collected, and net tax liability. There are different types of GST returns depending on the taxpayer's registration and turnover, including monthly, quarterly, and annual returns. Filing returns accurately and on time helps taxpayers comply with tax laws, claim input tax credits, avoid penalties, and improve cash flow while gaining insights into their business performance.

1. GST Return Filing
What is GST Return?
A GST return is a document that every registered taxpayer under the Goods and Services
Tax (GST) law must file for every GSTIN registered. It is a monthly or quarterly return that
contains details of all outward supplies made, inward supplies received, tax collected on
sales (output tax), tax paid on purchases (input tax), and the net tax liability.
Filing GST returns is not just a legal obligation, it is a way for the government to keep track
of economic activities and collect taxes in a streamlined manner. Timely and accurate filing
helps in preventing tax evasion and keeps the taxpayer’s records up to date.
Components of GST Return
Sales and Output GST
This section requires businesses to report the total sales made during the tax period. The
applicable GST rate on these sales is also mentioned here.
Purchases and Input Tax Credit
In this part, businesses provide details of their purchases during the tax period and claim
input tax credit on the GST paid on these purchases.
Other Adjustments
Adjustments, if any, related to credit notes, debit notes, and other transactions are reported
in this section.
Types of GST Returns
The full form of GSTR is Goods and Services Tax Return.
• GSTR-1: This is a monthly return that must be filed by all taxpayers who have a
turnover of more than Rs. 20 lakhs. It contains details of all outward supplies made
during the month.
• GSTR-2A: This is an auto-generated return that is prepared by the GST portal
based on the information filed by the supplier in GSTR-1. It contains details of all
inward supplies received by the taxpayer during the month.
• GSTR-3B: This is a quarterly return that must be filed by all taxpayers. It is a
consolidated return that combines the information filed in GSTR-1 and GSTR-2A.
• GSTR-4: This is a return that must be filed by composition dealers. Composition
dealers are small taxpayers who are allowed to pay a simplified tax rate.

2. • GSTR-5: This is a return that must be filed by non-resident taxable persons
(NRITPs). NRITPs are foreign taxpayers who supply goods or services in India.
• GSTR-6: This is a return that must be filed by input service distributors (ISDs). ISDs
are entities that distribute input services to other taxpayers.
• GSTR-7: This is a return that must be filed by taxpayers who deduct tax at source
(TDS). TDS is a tax that is deducted from the payments made to suppliers by certain
taxpayers.
• GSTR-8: This is a return that must be filed by e-commerce operators. E-commerce
operators are entities that facilitate the sale of goods or services online.
• GSTR-9: This is an annual return that must be filed by all taxpayers. It contains
details of all supplies made and received during the financial year.
• GSTR-9C: This is a self-certified reconciliation statement that must be filed by
taxpayers with a turnover of more than Rs. 5 crore. It reconciles the data filed in
GSTR-1, GSTR-2A, and GSTR-3B.
• ITC-04: This is a return that must be filed by taxpayers who want to claim input tax
credit (ITC). ITC is a credit that can be claimed by taxpayers for the taxes paid on
their input supplies.
• CMP-08: This is a return that must be filed by taxpayers who opt for the quarterly
return filing and monthly payment of taxes (QRMP) scheme.
• PMT-06: This is a return that must be filed by taxpayers who want to pay their GST
liability in advance.
Depending the type of return and turnover of the taxpayer’s, the due date for filing GST
returns can vary. The GST portal has a dedicated section where taxpayers can find the due
dates for filing returns.
GST Return Type and Due Date
GSTR-1
Type: Monthly/Quarterly Return for Outward Supplies
Due Date: 11th of the following month (Monthly) / Last date of the month following the end of
the quarter (Quarterly)
GSTR-1 is used to report details of outward supplies, including B2B and B2C transactions. It
provides vital information for recipients to claim input tax credit.
GSTR-2A
Type: Auto-Generated Return for Inward Supplies
Due Date: N/A (Auto-Generated)
GSTR-2A is an auto-generated return that provides details of inward supplies based on
suppliers' GSTR-1 submissions. Taxpayers need to reconcile this with their records.

3. GSTR-3B
Type: Monthly Self-Declared Summary Return
Due Date: 20th of the following month
GSTR-3B is a monthly return that summarizes both outward and inward supplies along with
input tax credit claimed. It aids businesses in managing their tax liabilities effectively.
GSTR-4
Type: Quarterly Return for Composition Scheme Taxpayers
Due Date: 18th of the month following the end of the quarter
GSTR-4 is for composition scheme taxpayers and includes details of outward supplies,
inward supplies attracting reverse charge, and tax payable.
GSTR-5
Type: Monthly Return for Non-Resident Taxpayers
Due Date: 20th of the following month
GSTR-5 is for non-resident taxpayers providing taxable services in India. It reports inward
and outward supplies along with tax paid.
GSTR-6
Type: Monthly Return for Input Service Distributors
Due Date: 13th of the following month
GSTR-6 is for Input Service Distributors (ISD) and includes details of input tax credit
distributed and received.
GSTR-7
Type: Monthly Return for Tax Deducted at Source (TDS)
Due Date: 10th of the following month
GSTR-7 is filed by businesses required to deduct TDS. It reports details of TDS deducted,
liability, and payment.
GSTR-8
Type: Monthly Return for Tax Collected at Source (TCS)
Due Date: 10th of the following month
GSTR-8 is for e-commerce operators collecting TCS. It includes details of supplies made
through the platform and TCS collected.

4. GSTR-9
Type: Annual Return
Due Date: 31st December of the following financial year
GSTR-9 consolidates information from GSTR-1 and GSTR-3B for the entire financial year. It
offers a comprehensive overview of all supplies made and received.
GSTR-9C
Type: Reconciliation Statement with Audit Certificate
Due Date: Same as GSTR-9
GSTR-9C is filed along with GSTR-9 and requires a certified audit by a chartered accountant
or a cost accountant. It ensures accuracy in the annual return's information.
ITC-04
Type: Return for taxpayers who want to claim input tax credit (ITC).
Due Date: 10th of the following month
CMP-08
Type: Return for taxpayers who opt for the quarterly return filing and monthly payment of
taxes (QRMP) scheme.
Due Date: 18th of the month succeeding the quarter
PMT-06
Type: Return for taxpayers who want to pay their GST liability in advance.
Due Date: Any day
GST Return Filing Process
Filing GST returns is an essential part of complying with the Goods and Services Tax (GST)
regime in India. It involves submitting accurate information about your business transactions
to the tax authorities. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the GST return filing
process:
1. Login to the GST portal by using your GSTIN and password.
2. Click on the "Returns" tab.
3. Select the type of return you want to file.
4. Enter the details of your supplies and purchases.
5. Calculate the tax liability.

5. 6. Pay the tax liability, if any.
7. Submit the return.
Here are some additional details about each step:
• To login to the GST portal, you will need your GSTIN and password. You can
generate your password if you have forgotten it.
• The type of return you need to file will depend on your taxpayer category and
turnover. You can find the details of the different types of returns on the GST portal.
• The details of your supplies and purchases can be found in your invoices. You can
also download the GST returns forms from the GST portal.
• To calculate the tax liability, you will need to know the tax rates applicable to your
supplies and purchases. You can find the tax rates on the GST portal.
• You can pay the tax liability online through the GST portal or through a bank.
• To submit the return, you will need to click on the "Submit" button. You will receive a
confirmation message once the return is submitted successfully.
Steps to Download GST Returns Online
Downloading your Goods and Services Tax (GST) returns online is a straightforward process
that allows you to keep a record of your filed returns. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to
download your GST returns from the official GST portal:
Step 1: Visit the GST Portal
Go to the official GST portal at www.gst.gov.in using a web browser.
Step 2: Log In
1. Log in to the portal using your GST identification number (GSTIN) and the password
you set during registration.
Step 3: Access the Returns Dashboard
1. After logging in, you'll be directed to the dashboard.
2. Click on the "Services" tab in the top menu and select "Returns" from the drop-down
menu.
Step 4: Choose Return Type
1. Under the "Returns Dashboard" section, you'll find tiles for different types of returns
such as GSTR-1, GSTR-3B, and more.
2. Click on the tile corresponding to the return you want to download.
Step 5: Generate and Download Return
1. On the selected return's page, you'll see an option to "Prepare Online" or "Generate
File to Download."

6. 2. Choose the option to generate the return file for download.
Step 6: Save the File
1. A pop-up window will appear asking you to save the generated return file.
2. Choose a location on your computer or device to save the file and provide a suitable
name.
Step 7: Download the Filed Return
1. The file will typically be in ZIP format or another format specified by the portal.
2. Double-click the file to extract its contents if it's in a compressed format.
Step 8: Review and Store
1. Review the contents to ensure accuracy and completeness.
2. Save the file in a secure location on your computer or cloud storage for future
reference.
Benefits of GST Return Filing
Compliance with the law: Filing GST returns is a legal requirement for all registered
taxpayers. By filing your returns on time and accurately, you can ensure that you are in
compliance with the law.
Claiming input tax credit: Input tax credit (ITC) is a credit that can be claimed by
taxpayers for the taxes paid on their input supplies. By filing your returns correctly, you
can ensure that you are able to claim the ITC that you are entitled to.
Avoiding penalties and interest charges: Late filing of returns or filing incorrect
returns can result in penalties and interest charges. By filing your returns on time and
accurately, you can avoid these penalties and interest charges.
Improved cash flow: By filing your returns on time, you can ensure that you are able
to make timely payments of your GST liability. This can help to improve your cash flow.
Better understanding of your business: Filing GST returns can help you to better
understand your business. By tracking your sales and purchases, you can get insights
into your financial performance and make informed business decisions.
Improved compliance with other taxes: Filing GST returns can help you to
improve your compliance with other taxes, such as income tax and excise duty. By
having a good understanding of your GST obligations, you can be more proactive in
complying with other taxes.
Who is eligible for GST Return
• Any business or individual that is registered under the GST regime must file GST
returns. Registration is mandatory if the aggregate turnover (revenue) of the business
exceeds the prescribed threshold limit.

7. • Businesses with an aggregate turnover of more than ₹20 lakh (₹10 lakh for special
category states) in a financial year are required to register for GST and subsequently
file GST returns.
• Entities engaged in the supply of goods or services across state borders, irrespective
of their turnover, are required to register for GST and file appropriate returns.
• E-commerce operators and sellers on e-commerce platforms must register for GST
and file returns, regardless of their turnover. The operator must also collect Tax
Collected at Source (TCS).
• Entities that receive invoices with an ISD on them and intend to distribute the input
tax credit (ITC) to their branches or units need to file GST returns as Input Service
Distributors.
Documents required for GST Filing:
The documents required for GST filing vary depending on the type of return and the
taxpayer's turnover. However, in general, the following documents may be required:
• GSTIN: The GSTIN is the unique identification number assigned to all registered
taxpayers.
• HSN (Harmonized System of Nomenclature) codes for goods and SAC
(Services Accounting Code) for services. These codes classify goods and services
for tax purposes.
• PAN card: The PAN card is the taxpayer's permanent account number.
• Aadhaar card: The Aadhaar card is a 12-digit identification number issued by the
Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI).
• Bank account details: The bank account details are required for making payments
of GST liability.
• Invoices: The invoices are required to substantiate the details of supplies made and
purchases received.
• Other supporting documents: Other supporting documents may be required, such
as rent agreement, electricity bill, or lease agreement.
FAQs
What happens if I don't file my GST return on time?
Failure to file on time can result in penalties and a suspension of input tax credit.
Can I revise my GST return after submission?
Yes, you can make revisions in the subsequent period's return.
Is there a penalty for errors in my GST return?
Penalties might be levied for incorrect information or discrepancies.

8. Do I need to file different returns for different tax periods?
Yes, each tax period requires a separate filing.
How does GST return affect my Input Tax Credit?
GST return is essential to claim input tax credit on taxes paid on purchases.
To simplify, GST return is a crucial document that businesses must file regularly to fulfil their
tax obligations and maintain a transparent financial record. By adhering to the guidelines and
deadlines, businesses can ensure seamless compliance and enjoy the benefits that come
with it.