What is GSTR-9?
GSTR-9 is an annual return to be filed by all registered taxpayers under GST. It consists of details regarding outward and inward supplies made or received during the relevant financial year under different tax heads i.e., CGST, SGST, and IGST.
It is a consolidation of all the monthly/quarterly returns (GSTR-1, GSTR-2A, GSTR-3B) filed during that year.
Who is Required to File GSTR-9?
All regular taxpayers registered under GST are required to file GSTR-9. However, the following are exempt:
- Taxpayers opting for the Composition Scheme (They file GSTR-4).
- Casual Taxable Persons.
- Input Service Distributors (ISD).
- Non-resident Taxable Persons.
- Persons paying TDS under section 51.
Note: Filing GSTR-9 is optional for taxpayers with an aggregate annual turnover up to ₹2 Crore.
Types of Annual Returns
- GSTR-9: The standard annual return for regular taxpayers.
- GSTR-9A: Annual return for composition scheme taxpayers (Now replaced by GSTR-4).
- GSTR-9B: Annual return for e-commerce operators who collect TCS.
- GSTR-9C: A reconciliation statement to be filed by taxpayers whose turnover exceeds ₹5 Crore. It reconciles the figures in GSTR-9 with the audited financial statements.
Documents Required for GSTR-9 Filing
To file GSTR-9 accurately, you should have the following records ready:
- Consolidated GSTR-1 and GSTR-3B summaries for the financial year.
- GSTR-2A/2B reports for ITC reconciliation.
- Audited financial statements (Profit & Loss, Balance Sheet).
- Details of any tax paid via DRC-03.
- Details of amendments made in the subsequent financial year.
How to File GSTR-9 Online?
- Login: Log in to the GST Portal.
- Navigate: Go to Services > Returns > Annual Return.
- Select Year: Select the Financial Year.
- Prepare: Click on 'Prepare Online'. The system will show auto-populated data from GSTR-1 and GSTR-3B.
- Verify & Edit: Verify the auto-populated figures with your books of accounts. Enter additional details if required.
- Compute Liabilities: The system will compute tax liabilities. Pay any additional tax if needed.
- File: Preview the draft and file the return using DSC or EVC.
Late Fees and Penalties
If GSTR-9 is not filed by the due date (usually 31st December of the next financial year), late fees apply:
- Late Fee: ₹200 per day (₹100 CGST + ₹100 SGST).
- Maximum Cap: 0.50% of the turnover in the State/UT.
