Introduction
Under the Goods and Services Tax (GST) regime, registered persons are required to file periodic returns disclosing details of outward and inward supplies, tax liability, and payment of taxes. Monthly return filing is a key component of GST compliance.
1. GSTR-1 – Statement of Outward Supplies
Purpose: To report details of outward supplies (sales) made during the month.
Applicable To: All regular taxpayers, excluding composition scheme holders and certain exempted categories.
Due Date:
11th of the following month (for monthly filers)
Quarterly filing available under the QRMP scheme.
2. GSTR-3B – Summary Return
Purpose: To declare a summary of outward and inward supplies, along with the payment of tax.
Applicable To: All registered persons liable to pay GST.
Due Date:
20th of the following month (standard due date)
For QRMP scheme: 22nd/24th depending on the state.
3. PMT-06 – Challan for Tax Payment
Purpose: Used by QRMP scheme taxpayers to pay tax in the first two months of the quarter.
Due Date:
25th of the month following the month of tax liability.
Optional or Conditional Returns
Depending on the nature of the taxpayer, other returns such as the following may be applicable:
GSTR-5: For non-resident taxable persons
GSTR-6: For Input Service Distributors
GSTR-7: For persons required to deduct TDS under GST
GSTR-8: For e-commerce operators required to collect TCS under GST
- Late filing attracts a late fee under Section 47 of the CGST Act, along with interest on the unpaid tax amount.
- Timely filing of returns is essential for availing Input Tax Credit (ITC) and for being compliant under the GST framework.
Eligible taxpayers (with turnover up to ₹5 crore) may opt for the Quarterly Return Monthly Payment (QRMP) scheme:
GSTR-1: Filed quarterly
GSTR-3B: Filed quarterly
Tax Payment: Made monthly through Form PMT-06
Note: The above due dates and requirements are subject to changes as per notifications issued by the GST Council or the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC).