GSTR-9 Annual Return: Due Date, Applicability, Turnover Limit, Format, Eligibility, Rules

GSTR-9 is an annual GST return  filed by 31st December of the year following the particular financial year. GSTR-9 return contains sales, purchases governed by Central GST (CGST), State GST (SGST), and Integrated GST (IGST) and GST charged and paid on the same during the financial year. Registered taxpayers under GST must file GSTR-9 if their Annual turnover limit exceeds Rs. 2 crores.

This return is a consolidated record of all monthly or quarterly returns submitted within the corresponding year.

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What is GSTR 9 Annual Return?

GSTR-9 is a yearly report that registered taxpayers need to file. This report contains everything they bought and sold throughout the financial year, and their taxes (like CGST, SGST, and IGST). It also covers their total sales and purchases and audit details for the year. In short, GSTR-9 summarizes a whole year’s business transactions and tax details. The GST annual return limit for businesses is Rs. 2 crore, but filing is optionalfor those with a turnover up to Rs. 2 crore.

GSTR 9 Applicability: Who should file GSTR-9 Annual return?

The requirement to file Form GSTR-9 extends to various categories of taxpayers based on their registration status, GST annual return limit, and activities during the financial year. The following entities are subject to GSTR 9 Applicability and obligated to submit GSTR -9 Annual Return:

• Normal Taxpayers: Individuals or entities registered as regular taxpayers fall under the purview of Form GSTR 9 filing. This encompasses businesses operating under standard tax provisions.
• SEZ Units and SEZ Developers: Special Economic Zone (SEZ) units and SEZ developers must also submit Form GSTR-9. This ensures comprehensive reporting of their financial activities within the fiscal year.
• Transition from Composition Scheme: Taxpayers who have transitioned from the composition scheme to normal taxpayer status during the financial year are mandated to file Form GSTR 9. This captures their shift from a simplified tax regime to a regular tax framework.

Exclusions from Form GSTR 9 Annual Return Filing: Non Applicability

• Composition Taxpayers: Taxpayers opt composition scheme have a distinct annual return form, i.e., Form GSTR-9A, designed to cater to their specific requirements. As such, they are not required to file Form GSTR-9.

• Casual Taxpayers: Those taxpayers who engage in occasional business activities, are exempt from filing the Annual Return in Form GSTR-9.
• Non-Resident Taxable person: Taxpayers who are not residents of this country and engage in taxable transactions within India, non-resident taxpayers, are not obligated to file Form GSTR-9.
• Input Service Distributors (ISD) and OIDAR Service Providers: Entities functioning as Input Service Distributors or providing Online Information and Database Access or Retrieval services are also excluded from the requirement to file Form GSTR-9.
• Persons paying TDS under section 51 of CGST Act
• Person collecting TCS under section 52 of CGST Act

Types of GST Annual Returns

GSTR 9 :- Entities exceeding a turnover of 2 crores are mandated to file the GST annual return using form GSTR-9. This return compiles comprehensive financial information.

GSTR-9A:-

Registered taxpayers who opted for the GST Composition scheme must submit GSTR-9A. This tailored return addresses the specific needs of composition scheme participants.

GSTR-9C:-

Annual Reconciliation Statement is an audit form that must be self certified and filed by all taxpayers whose aggregate turnover exceeds Rs.5 crores in a financial year.

Filing GSTR 9A: Composition Scheme Participants

GST-registered taxpayers who have chosen to operate under the composition scheme as per the GST Act are obligated to file GSTR-9A. This return encompasses all the taxpayer previously submitted information in their quarterly returns throughout the specific financial year.

Eligibility Criteria Every taxpayer registered under the composition levy scheme in GST must fulfill the GSTR-9A filing requirement. However, the subsequent individuals are exempt from filing GSTR-9A:

• Input Service Distributors
• Non-resident taxable individuals
• Individuals are subject to Tax Deducted at Source under Section 51 of the Income Tax Act.
• E-commerce operators are subject to Tax Collected at Source under Section 52 of the Income Tax Act.
• Casual Taxable Individuals

Filing GSTR 9C: Reconciliation Statement

Role and Requirement of GSTR-9C Form :-

GSTR-9C serves the purpose of filing the reconciliation statement by taxpayers for a specific financial year. This form constitutes a reconciliation between the Annual Returns submitted in GSTR-9 and the figures outlined in the taxpayer’s Audited Financial Statements. The submission of this Chartered Accountant-certified form aligns with the filing of both the Annual Returns in GSTR-9 and the Audited Financial Statements. Taxpayers can fulfil this obligation through the GST portal or a designated Facilitation Centre.

Eligibility Criteria

GSTR-9C applies to taxpayers whose turnover exceeds the threshold limit are mandated to undergo an annual GST audit of their accounts. The form must be meticulously prepared and certified by a qualified Chartered Accountant or Cost Accountant.

What is the GSTR 9 Annual Return Turnover Limit?

GSTR-9, the Annual Return, is a mandatory filing requirement for all registered regular taxpayers whose annual turnover exceeds INR 2 crores. This GSTR 9 turnover limit or threshold ensures that businesses with significant economic activity accurately report their transactions and tax liabilities. For businesses with a turnover up to Rs. 2 crore, filing GSTR 9 is optional. Each year, the GST department notifies the threshold turnover limit above which GSTR-9 must be filed.

GSTR 9 Due Date for Filing

The GSTR 9 due datefor a particular financial year is 31st December of the subsequent financial year or as extended by the Government through notification from time to time.

GSTR 9 Format – Comprehensive Structure

The GSTR 9 format is divided into 6 parts, each capturing vital details of supplies made or received during financial year. The key aspect to remember is that the information required in all 6 parts is consolidated.

Part-1: Basic Registration Details

Here, you’ll provide basic registration information. This includes the fiscal year, GSTIN, legal name, and trade name. These details will be automatically filled out when GSTR-9 is available on the GST portal.

Part 2: Details of Outward Supplies

In this part, you’ll consolidate details of outward supplies declared in your returns for the financial year. It’s further split into two sections:

• Supplies on which tax is payable (4A to 4L): This covers taxable supplies, exports, supplies to SEZ, reverse charge, and advances received.
• Supplies on which tax is not payable (5A to 5K): This includes exports, exempt supplies, nil-rated supplies, and non-GST supplies.

Part 3: Input Tax Credit (ITC)

This part has three sections:

• ITC availed as declared in returns filed (6A to 6O): Breakdown of ITC availed on various inward supplies.
• ITC reversed and ineligible ITC (7A to 7H): Details of ITC reversed and ineligible ITC.
• Other ITC-related information (8A to 8J): Information related to ITC as per GSTR-2A, reclaimed ITC, and more.

Part-4: Tax Paid

Here, you’ll capture the tax paid as declared in the previous year’s returns. Breakup of tax payable, paid in cash, and paid through ITC is required.

Part-5: Transactions of Previous Financial Year

This part covers transactions from the previous financial year but is declared in the returns of April to September of the current financial year.

Part-6: Miscellaneous Details

In this part, you’ll provide details about demands, refunds, supplies from composition dealers, an HSN-wise summary of supplies, and late fee information.

Understanding and correctly filling these parts is crucial for accurate GSTR-9 filing. If this seems overwhelming, don’t worry! At DisyTax, we’re here to simplify the process and guide you step by step. With our support, you can confidently navigate the GSTR-9 form and ensure accurate compliance with GST regulations.

Documents Required to File GSTR-9

To file Form GSTR-9, you will typically need the following documents:

• GST Returns (GSTR-1, GSTR-2A, GSTR 2B, GSTR-3B):These documents show your all sales, purchases, and tax calculations. They are essential to compile accurate data for the annual return filing.
• Annual Financial Statements:Your yearly profit and loss statement and balance sheet provide an overview of your financial health and are required to match your GST returns.
• Reconciliation Statement (GSTR-9C):This document helps reconcile your financial data with your GST returns, ensuring accuracy and compliance.

Prerequisites for Filing GSTR-9:-

• Taxpayer Registration:The taxpayer must be registered as a regular GST taxpayer for at least one day during the financial year in question.
• Filing of GSTR-1 and GSTR-3B: Before filing the annual return (GSTR-9), the taxpayer must have filed GSTR-1 and GSTR-3B for the entire financial year. These returns provide the data required to complete GSTR-9.
• Auto-Filled Tables: Some tables in GSTR 9 are auto-filled with data based on information provided in GSTR-3B and GSTR-2A:
  • Table 6A is auto-filled with data from GSTR-3B and is not editable.
  • Table 8A is auto-filled based on details from GSTR-2A and is also not editable.
  • Table 9, which contains details of tax paid as declared in returns filed during the financial year, will be auto-filled based on the information provided by the taxpayer in Form GSTR 3B for the relevant fiscal year.

How to File GSTR 9 Annual Return?

Here is the step-by-step procedure on how to file GSTR-9,

Step 1: Login and Navigate to GSTR-9

• Access the official GST website and log in using your credentials.
• Go to the ‘Returns Dashboard’ and click on the ‘Annual Return’ option.

Step 2: Select the Financial Year

• Choose the relevant financial year (2024-2025) from the ‘File Annual Returns page.
• Click ‘Prepare Online’ after a message appears with instructions for filing GSTR 9 either online or offline.

Step 3: Nil Return

• Decide whether you want to file a Nil return by selecting ‘Yes’ or ‘No.’
• If you select ‘Yes,’ ensure all specific criteria are met (no outward supply, no receipt of goods or services, no credit claimed, no refund claimed, no other liability, no demand order, and no late fees required).
• If these conditions are met, proceed to calculate liabilities and file a Nil GSTR-9.
• If you select ‘No’ for a Nil return, move on to the next step.

Step 4: Filling in Details

• On the ‘GSTR-9 Annual Return for normal taxpayers’ page, various sections will appear requiring specific information.
• Click on all three tabs to download summary details that will assist in completing different parts of GSTR-9:
  • GSTR-9 System Computed Summary
  • GSTR-1 Summary
  • GSTR-3B Summary
• Enter the necessary details in the respective tables. The system will auto-populate data based on GSTR-1 and GSTR-3B information. If there is a +/- 20% variance in the auto-populated details, the cells will be highlighted, and a confirmation message will prompt further processing. Click ‘Yes’ to accept the details.

Step 5: Save the Data

• Go back to the ‘GSTR-9 Dashboard’ and fill in all required information.
• Save the data

Step 6: Preview the Draft GSTR 9

Preview the form in PDF or Excel format by clicking ‘Preview GSTR-9 (PDF)’ on the GSTR-9 dashboard.

Step 7: Computation of Liabilities and GSTR 9 Late Fees

• Click ‘Compute Liabilities,’ and the GST portal will process the details provided in various tables, including calculating any GSTR 9 late fees if applicable.
• Make the payment from the electronic cash ledger. If there are insufficient funds, an additional payment can be made via net banking, over the counter, or through NEFT/RTGS by creating an additional payment challan.

Step 8: Final Submission

• Select the declaration check box.
• Choose the authorized signatory.
• A page will display two options for filing:
  • File with DSC: Browse and select the digital signature certificate, sign, and submit.
  • File with EVC:�An OTP will be sent to the registered email and mobile number. Upon successful validation of the OTP, the return status changes to ‘Filed.’

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Filing GSTR-9 can be complex, but with DisyTax, you can streamline the entire process. Our experts are here to assist you every step of the way, ensuring accuracy and compliance. Connect with us today to simplify GSTR-9 filing for your business!

GSTR 9 Penalty for Late Filing

Every taxpayer needs to submit the GSTR 9 Annual Return form within due date. If this GSTR 9 due date is missed, there’s a significant penalty to be aware of. The fine amounts to 200 INR per day. This GSTR 9 late fee is divided into Rs.100 for CGST and Rs.100 for SGST. Significantly, the penalty amount will not exceed the taxpayer’s quarterly turnover.

It’s crucial to meet the GSTR 9 due date to avoid these penalties and ensure easy and smooth compliance with tax regulations. Call us now!

How Can DisyTax Assist with GSTR-9 Form Filing?

Navigating the intricacies of tax filings can be overwhelming, but DisyTax is here to simplify the process. We provide comprehensive support to make GSTR-9 form filing a breeze:

• Expert Guidance:Our team of tax experts is well-versed in GST regulations. We guide you step by step through the GSTR-9 form, ensure filing before GSTR 9 last date with accuracy.
• Data Verification:We ensure the accuracy of your data before submission. This reduces the chances of errors that could lead to penalties.
• Timely Reminders:Our system sends you timely reminders so you don’t miss important deadlines. You’ll stay informed and avoid late filing penalties.
• Support at Every Step:Have questions? Our customer support team is here to help. Whether you’re unsure about a field or need clarification on a concept, we’ve got you covered.
• Comprehensive Services:We go beyond just form-filling. We assist with data compilation, calculations, and ensuring all necessary information is included.

With DisyTax by your side, you can file your annual return form before GSTR 9 last date with confidence, knowing that you have a reliable partner guiding you through the process.

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How many subcategories are there under GSTR 9?

There are four sub-categories under GSTR-9. Namely,GSTR-9, GSTR-9A, GSTR-9B, GSTR-9C.

What is the penalty for not filing GST annual returns?

As per Section 47(2) of the Central Goods and Service Tax Act (2017), a person will be fined a penalty of INR 100 per day (CGST) + INR 100 per day (SGST), amounting to a total of INR 200 per day if he/she fails to file GSTR-9 before the due date. However, the maximum amount of penalty a person can be fined is 0.25% of the total turnover.

When is the GST annual return due date?

The GSTR 9 due date�for a particular financial year is 31st December of the subsequent financial year

If the taxpayer opts for the composition scheme is she /he required to file GSTR 9?

Every taxpayer who has opted out of the composition scheme during the financial year is required to furnish GSTR 9 for the period for which he has been a regular taxpayer

Is it possible to file GSTR 9 online?

No, as of now, annual returns in form GSTR 9 can only be filed online. However, the government will soon release the offline method to file form GSTR 9.

Is there any late fee if there is a delay in filing GSTR9?

Yes, a delay in filing GSTR-9 beyond the due date will attract a late fee as a penalty.

Is it possible to revise GSTR 9?

No, the returns field in GSTR-9 cannot be revised by the taxpayer after they have been filed.

Who is eligible to file GST annual returns?

All the registered GST taxpayers are required to file GSTR 9 once a year. In the recent past, the intrastate suppliers and the business and the service sector businesses that have an annual turnover of Rs 20 lakh and goods sector with an annual turnover of Rs.40 lakh need to file GST annual returns.

Who should get the GST audit done?

All the registered GST taxpayers whose turnover during a given financial year is exceeding the prescribed GST annual return limit should get the accounts audited. According to the current GST rules, the limit is Rs.2 crores.

Who can file GSTR 9 & GSTR 9C?

GSTR annual return is filed by every GST registered taxpayer irrespective of the turnover. GSTR 9C is a reconciliation statement that is to be submitted by the GST registered taxpayer for whom audit is applicable.