How to File GST Returns in India — Beginner's Guide | InvoiceGPT

Types of GST Returns

Main GST returns: GSTR-1 (details of outward supplies, filed monthly or quarterly), GSTR-3B (summary of transactions and tax payment, monthly), GSTR-9 (annual return, once per year). For small businesses under the Quarterly Return Monthly Payment (QRMP) scheme, GSTR-1 is quarterly.

GSTR-1 — Outward Supply Return

GSTR-1 reports all your sales invoices. For businesses with turnover above ₹5 crore: monthly by the 11th. For businesses under ₹5 crore: quarterly by the 13th of the next month after the quarter. Your invoices from InvoiceGPT form the basis for GSTR-1 data.

GSTR-3B — Summary Return

GSTR-3B is a monthly self-assessed summary return and tax payment. Due on the 20th (for turnover above ₹5 crore) or 22nd/24th (for lower turnover) of the following month. It summarises total sales, input credit claimed, and net tax payable.

How Your Invoices Help with GST Filing

Every invoice you create in InvoiceGPT contributes to your GSTR-1 data. Your dashboard shows total taxable value and GST collected, which you reference when filing. Export your invoice data to share with your CA for filing assistance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if I miss GST return deadlines?

Late filing attracts a penalty of ₹50/day (₹25 CGST + ₹25 SGST) for regular taxpayers, capped at ₹5,000. For nil returns, the late fee is ₹20/day.

Do I need a CA to file GST returns?

Small businesses can file GST returns themselves on the GST portal (gstin.gov.in). For complex situations (multiple GSTINs, large volumes, ITC claims), a CA is recommended.

Can InvoiceGPT directly file my GST returns?

InvoiceGPT is a billing and invoice generation tool — it doesn't directly integrate with the GST portal for return filing. However, your invoice records from InvoiceGPT make it easy to compile the data needed for your CA or self-filing.

How to File GST Returns in India — Beginner's Guide