Introduction
The Goods and Services Tax (GST) regime in India requires registered taxpayers to fulfill several compliance obligations, one of which includes filing returns. When a business decides to cancel its GST registration, one crucial step in this process is filing the Final GST Return, known as Form GSTR-10. This return is vital for businesses ceasing operations under the GST regime, as it ensures that all due liabilities are settled and records are accurately documented.
What is Form GSTR-10?
Form GSTR-10 is a final return that needs to be filed by a registered taxpayer whose GST registration has been canceled or surrendered. This return provides a comprehensive statement of stocks held by the business on the last day of its GST operations, along with any liabilities arising from such stocks.
Who Needs to File GSTR-10?
All taxpayers whose GST registration has been canceled or surrendered are required to file Form GSTR-10. However, this does not apply to taxpayers who have opted for voluntary cancellation under the composition scheme.
Key Components of Form GSTR-10
- Basic Details: Includes the taxpayer’s GSTIN, legal name, trade name, and the address of the principal place of business.
- Application Reference Number (ARN): This number is provided when the application for cancellation is submitted.
- Effective Date of Cancellation: The date from which the GST registration is considered canceled.
- Details of Stock: Information about the stock of goods held on the date of cancellation. This includes details of input tax credit (ITC) claimed on such stock and any pending liabilities.
- Tax Liability Arising: Any tax liability on the closing stock must be declared and settled.
Why is GSTR-10 Important?
- Settlement of Liabilities: It ensures that all liabilities, including taxes, interest, and penalties, are settled before the business closes its GST account.
- Compliance: Filing GSTR-10 is a compliance requirement under the GST Act. Failure to file can lead to penalties and complications in the future.
- Record of Closure: Provides a final account of the business’s inventory and tax liabilities, serving as a formal record of closure under the GST regime.
Steps to File Form GSTR-10
- Access the GST Portal: Log in to the GST portal using your credentials.
- Navigate to Returns: Select the ‘Returns Dashboard’ and choose the financial year and period for which GSTR-10 is to be filed.
- Fill in Details: Enter details such as ARN, effective date of cancellation, and stock information.
- Verify Liabilities: Cross-check any outstanding liabilities and settle them.
- Submit and File: Once all details are verified, submit the form and file it using an Electronic Verification Code (EVC) or Digital Signature Certificate (DSC).
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Failure to file Form GSTR-10 within the stipulated time can result in penalties. A late fee of ₹200 per day (₹100 each for CGST and SGST) is applicable until the return is filed. The maximum penalty can go up to ₹10,000.
Conclusion
Filing the Final GST Return, Form GSTR-10, is a critical step in the GST cancellation process. It ensures that businesses have settled all liabilities and documented their closure under the GST regime properly. Timely filing of this return helps avoid penalties and maintains compliance with tax laws, providing a clear path for businesses ceasing operations. Always ensure to cross-verify all details before submission to avoid future complications.