How to File your GST returns online: Check Step-by-Step Guide, Types, Rules, and Requirements

Implementing the goods and service tax on July 1, 2017 has led to one of India’s greatest tax reforms of all time. GST is a comprehensive tax levied on the supply of goods and services. It replaced all other indirect taxes such as central excise duty, state VAT, central sales tax, purchase tax, etc. So, whether you are a trader, manufacturer or service provider, you need to register under GST to file returns.

If you are wondering how to file GST returns or how many returns in GST you have to file, you can visit the GST login portal to find answers to all your queries and file GST online. First, you should know how to register for GST and how to get your GST number.

What is the GST return?

A GST return is a document that mentions all GST invoices, payments, and receipts for a specific period. A taxpayer is liable to declare all transactions related to the business’s revenue. Basis that the authorities will calculate the amount of tax the company has to pay.

Business owners can file GST online on the official portal provided by the Goods and Services Tax network (GSTN).

While filing GST returns, the registered dealer requires the following details for the concerned period.

• Total sales
• Total purchases
• Output GST (GST paid by customers)
• Input tax credit (ITC), GST paid by the business for purchases.

Once filed, a registered dealer can check GST return filing status online and comply with requirements accordingly.

Additional Read: How to calculate GST

In addition, you also need to understand and choose the correct form before you initiate the GST return filing procedure. There are 11 types of returns applicable under the GST regime, and each form has a different purpose and due date. For example, you will have to file GSTR-1 by the 10th of every month if you are filing details of outward supplies of taxable goods. Once you have this information and know your GST number, choose the appropriate GST form and file GST online by the due date.

Types of GST returns (GSTR)

The types of GST return filed by regular taxpayers include the following.

Ten steps to file a GST return online

Before you begin the GST return filing, ensure that you have a 15-digit GST identification number with you based on your state code and PAN. In case you do not have this number, first register online to get it.

1. Visit the GST portal.
2. Click on the ‘services’ button.
3. Click on ‘returns dashboard’ and then, from the drop-down menu, fill in the financial year and the return filing period.
4. Now select the return that you want to file and click on ‘prepare online’.
5. Enter all the required values, including the amount and late fee, if applicable.
6. Once you have filled in all the details, click on ‘save’ and see a success message displayed on your screen.
7. Now click on ‘submit’ at the bottom of the page to file the return.
8. Once the status of your return changes to ‘submitted’, scroll down and click on the ‘payment of tax’ tile. Then, click on ‘check balance’ to view cash and credit balance. Make sure you know these details before paying tax for respective minor heads. Next, to clear your liabilities, you need to mention the amount of credit you want to use from the available credit. Then click on ‘offset liability’ to make the payment. When confirmation is displayed, click on ‘ok’.
9. Lastly, check the box against the declaration and select an authorised signatory from the drop-down list. Now click on ‘file form with DSC’ or ‘file form with EVC’ and click on ‘proceed’. Make the payment in the next step for your respective GST.

Who should file GST return?

Under the provisions of the GST Act, it is mandated that any individual or entity involved in the supply of goods or services, whose annual turnover exceeds the prescribed threshold, must file GST returns. This encompasses various categories such as businesses, traders, manufacturers, service providers, e-commerce operators, and more. Additionally, businesses registered under the GST composition scheme are also required to file returns.

Furthermore, entities registered under GST must file returns irrespective of whether any transactions occurred during the tax period. Even if there were no transactions, a nil return must be filed. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in penalties and legal consequences.

Moreover, it's imperative to note that GST returns must be filed electronically through the GST portal within the stipulated due dates. Timely and accurate filing ensures compliance with tax regulations and facilitates seamless business operations within the ambit of the GST framework.

Additional Read: What is the GSTIN number?

Additional Read: GST Calculator

The GST network stores all the information on registered sellers and buyers. If you own a company engaged in the supply of goods and services, you will have to file three monthly returns and one annual return using the simple spreadsheet template.

Upcoming dates to file GST return