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GSTN Issues Advisory on Automatic HSN-wise Summary Population in GSTR-1 Table 12 from e-Invoices

editor — Wed, 10 Apr 2024 05:22:53 +0000

The GSTN has released an important Advisory No. 630 dated April 09, 2024, regarding the automatic population of HSN-wise summaries from e-Invoices into Table 12 of GSTR-1.

GSTN is pleased to announce the introduction of a new feature that enables the automatic population of HSN-wise summaries from e-Invoices into Table 12 of GSTR-1 on the GST portal. This feature facilitates the direct drafting of HSN data into Table 12 based on e-Invoice data.

It is important to note that the HSN-wise summary data automatically populated into Table 12 is provided for your convenience. However, it is advised to reconcile this data with your records before final submission.

Any discrepancies or errors identified should be manually corrected or added to Table 12 before the final submission.

For further details, please refer to the Advisory accessible at: Link to Advisory

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GSTN Issues Important Advisory Regarding Reset and Re-filing of GSTR-3B for Certain Taxpayers

editor — Tue, 09 Apr 2024 12:06:19 +0000

The GSTN has released an important advisory, numbered 629 and dated April 9, 2024, regarding the reset and re-filing of GSTR-3B for specific taxpayers.

Referring to the option for re-filing GSTR-3B for certain taxpayers, it was observed that discrepancies existed between the saved data in the GST system and the data actually filed, particularly concerning ITC availment and tax liabilities. After thorough examination and discussion by the Grievance Redressal Committee of the GST Council, it was decided to reset these returns, providing affected taxpayers with an opportunity to rectify the discrepancies.

As a result, only the affected taxpayers have been notified via their registered email addresses, and the affected returns are accessible on their respective dashboards for re-filing with accurate data. Those who have received this communication are requested to visit their dashboard and re-submit their GSTR-3B within 15 days.

In case of any difficulty in re-filing, taxpayers are advised to contact their jurisdictional tax officer or raise a ticket on the GST grievance redressal portal.

We deeply regret any inconvenience caused to taxpayers.

The complete advisory can be found at: Link to Advisory

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Collaborative Audits by Central and State GST Authorities Targeting Businesses

editor — Tue, 09 Apr 2024 06:48:00 +0000

Beginning this fiscal year, there will be a collaborative effort between Central and State Goods and Services Tax (GST) authorities to conduct audits within the indirect tax framework.

This joint approach is expected to bring significant advantages to taxpayers by eliminating repetitive notifications and inquiries. Current industry data suggests that around 11,000 cases are either duplicated or entangled in legal disputes due to investigations by both Central and State agencies. Various Central GST zones have issued internal communications instructing officials to collaborate with their state counterparts on audits to ensure better coordination, as per sources.

The concept of conducting audits collaboratively was proposed during a national coordination meeting last month to streamline tax enforcement processes. The directives indicate that Central GST officers should also participate in audits conducted by State GST teams to improve SGST officers’ audit capabilities and facilitate the exchange of crucial compliance information. To support these joint audit efforts, the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) has instructed each zone to devise a specific framework.

The responsibility for implementation, delegated to zonal heads, aims to optimize time and resources. Experts in the industry believe this initiative will enhance the fairness and efficiency of the audit process, providing a more comprehensive examination that benefits both tax authorities and taxpayers. It will help in avoiding redundant procedures and shield taxpayers from undergoing multiple audits for the same issues.

Furthermore, the CBIC has directed its officers to halt investigations into offenses already under scrutiny by state GST officials or for which notifications have been issued.

Source: https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/company/corporate-trends/central-state-gst-officials-to-conduct-joint-audits-of-firms/articleshow/109143298.cms?from=mdr

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Income Tax Department enabled the Form 10IE for AY 2024-25 for filing on the income tax e-filing portal

editor — Sat, 06 Apr 2024 09:56:22 +0000

The Income Tax Department has enabled Form 10IE for AY 2024-25 for filing on the income tax e-filing portal.

Please note: This Form 10IE is applicable to those who opt for the old Tax regime for A.Y .2024-25 as the new Tax regime is the default Tax regime.

Source #Income Tax Portal

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State’s GST Department Witnesses 43% Decline in GSTIN Applications Following Introduction of Biometric Verification to Combat Fraudulent Billing

editor — Fri, 05 Apr 2024 04:41:47 +0000

A notable development within the state’s GST department reveals a substantial 43% decrease in the average monthly count of GSTIN (Goods and Services Tax Identification Number) applications since November 2023. This reduction, from 26,800 applications to 15,350 between November last year and February this year, is not indicative of a slowdown in business or establishment formations. Rather, it reflects a strategic initiative by the state government aimed at curbing fraudulent billing practices right from the registration stage.

A new protocol mandating biometric verification for GSTIN applicants has been initiated as part of a pilot program. This additional step effectively filters out illegitimate applications, thereby contributing to the observed decline in application numbers. Rolled out in November 2023, this initiative aims to bolster the security and efficacy of the registration process. Similar pilot projects are also underway in Andhra Pradesh and Puducherry.

According to a senior official from the SGST department, fraudulent billing often commences with the acquisition of counterfeit GST registration through deceptive means. These fictitious entities’ GSTINs are then exploited to generate sham invoices and claim input tax credits without any actual exchange of goods. Additionally, instances have surfaced where individuals have discovered the unauthorized use of their banking and identity credentials for these fake registrations.

Bogus billing has posed a significant challenge for Gujarat, particularly since the GST rollout. The state government has incurred losses amounting to Rs 11,443 crore due to tax evasion schemes involving fraudulent billing practices. The cumulative value involved in such operations is nearing Rs 1 lakh crore since the GST’s inception.

Under the revised verification framework, applicants must undergo thumbprint authentication and furnish various identification documents during GST registration to verify their identity. Moreover, applicants may undergo further scrutiny in the future if deemed necessary. The integration of biometric verification is anticipated to act as a deterrent against fraudulent activities by ensuring that GST registrations are exclusively issued to legitimate entities.

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GST Applicability to Compensation for Liquidated Damages in Agreements

editor — Wed, 03 Apr 2024 10:27:09 +0000

In a recent ruling by the Andhra Pradesh Authority for Advance Ruling (AAR) in AAR No. 12/AP/GST/2023 dated December 21, 2023, significant clarity was provided regarding the GST implications of compensation collected for liquidated damages under contractual agreements. This ruling pertains to the case of South India Krishna Oil & Fats (P.) Ltd. (“the Applicant”), a manufacturer of edible oils, and sheds light on whether such compensation amounts are subject to GST and the related input tax credit implications.

Facts of the Case:

The Applicant, engaged in the production of edible oils, enters into agreements with customers for the supply of specified quantities of edible oils at agreed-upon rates, with delivery within specified timelines.
Instances arise where customers fail to lift the agreed quantities of edible oils within stipulated delivery dates, leading to breach or non-performance of contractual obligations.
In response to such breaches, the Applicant collects compensation amounts, termed "Liquidated Damages or Trade Settlement," from defaulting customers.

Held:

The AAR observed that as per the definition of "consideration" under Section 2(31) of the CGST/APGST Acts, it encompasses any payment made in response to or for the inducement of the supply of goods or services.
It was opined that the compensation amounts paid by customers to the Applicant for non-performance or breach of contract constitute consideration for tolerating an act or situation under an agreement.
Consequently, such compensation amounts were deemed to constitute a supply of service and were subject to CGST at 9% and SGST at 9% each under Chapter Heading No. 9997 at Serial No. 35 of Notification No. 11/2017-Central Tax (Rate) dated June 28, 2017.
Additionally, it was held that since GST is leviable on the collection of compensation for liquidated damages, the restriction of Input Tax Credit (ITC) of common services under Rules 42 and 43 of the CGST/APGST Rules does not apply.

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Madras High Court Strikes Down Excessive GST Demand on Trade Payables

editor — Sat, 30 Mar 2024 04:41:27 +0000

Introduction:

The Madras High Court invalidated the order demanding payment concerning all trade payables, asserting that it exceeded the boundaries outlined in the original show cause notice. This ruling is significant in the realm of audit cases and is poised to have widespread benefits.

Facts of the case:

The petitioner contested an order dated 31.12.2023, arguing its overreach beyond the purview of a preceding show cause notice by subjecting all trade payables to GST.
Following an audit report on 26.09.2023, the petitioner received a notice on 30.09.2023 proposing a tax of Rs. 43,66,708.14. However, the final order imposed a tax exceeding Rs. 90 crores, markedly surpassing the initial estimate.
Despite compliance with statutory Input Tax Credit (ITC) requirements, the petitioner faced penalties.
The crux of the matter lies in the imposition of GST on the entirety of the petitioner's trade payables, a move perceived by the petitioner as beyond the notice's scope and contrary to legal provisions.

Petitioner’s Argument:

The petitioner contends that the order unjustly expanded the taxable amount well beyond the initial estimation, unfairly taxing trade payables as a taxable supply despite adhering to ITC regulations.

Held:

The Madras High Court deemed the imposition of GST on trade payables, as reflected in financial statements, prima facie unsustainable.

The court nullified the order, instructing the petitioner to remit 10% of the disputed amount, excluding trade payables, and mandated a fresh review with adequate opportunity for the petitioner to present their case.

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CBIC Declares March 29-31, 2024 as Working Days for All Customs Field Formations

editor — Fri, 29 Mar 2024 07:06:36 +0000

The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) has announced that March 29th, 30th, and 31st, 2024 will be considered as working days for all Customs field formations. This decision is communicated through a letter dated March 28, 2024, with reference number F.No.401/118/2016-Cus.III (Pt.).

All Customs field offices are required to remain operational during these days, and officers and staff are expected to report for duty as usual. It is requested that this information be disseminated among all personnel for compliance.

The directive has been issued with the approval of the relevant authority.

The full letter can be accessed at: https://www.nyca.in/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Letter_Customs_Working_Day_280324.pdf

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GST Application to Educational and Allied Services

editor — Fri, 22 Mar 2024 07:40:25 +0000

Exploring GST Implications on Educational Services

Are you operating a bus transport service catering to schools for student transportation? Wondering about GST applicability on such services? Let’s delve into the specifics of GST laws concerning educational services and allied sectors.

School Transport Services:

According to GST law, specified in Notification 12/2017, no GST is applicable on transportation services provided by an educational institution or to an educational institution for the conveyance of its students, staff, and faculty members.
This exemption encompasses all educational institutions offering services from preschool education up to higher secondary school or its equivalent.
Hence, there's no requirement to levy GST on school bus services extended to transport students, staff, and faculty members.

Understanding GST on Miscellaneous Educational Services

Contemplating enrolling in a French language course at a foreign language school in India? Curious about the GST implications on course fees? Let’s clarify the scenario.

Foreign Language Course:

Deciphering GST on Specialized Coaching Services

Considering enrolling your child in cricket coaching at a private sports coaching center? Puzzled about the GST imposition on coaching fees? Let’s unravel the situation.

Sports Coaching Services:

Analyzing GST on Private Tuition

Are you a student seeking private tuition for Mathematics and Science subjects? Unsure about the GST applicability on tuition fees? Let’s analyze the scenario.

Private Tuition Services:

Educational Service	GST Applicability
School Transport	No GST
Foreign Language	18% GST
Sports Coaching	GST applies
Private Tuition	18% GST (if turnover exceeds threshold)

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Proposed Amendments to MSME Development Act to Facilitate Prompt Payments to Small Businesses

editor — Thu, 14 Mar 2024 07:24:54 +0000

The government is considering revisions to the MSME Development Act, 2006, to ensure timely payments to micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

Currently, if a payment is delayed by more than 45 days after the receipt of goods or services from an MSME supplier, the buyer is required to pay compound interest at thrice the notified bank rate. Each state has a facilitation council to settle disputes and issue directives for payment, but these measures often fall short, leading to lengthy disputes and defaults. An estimated Rs 10.7 lakh crore is believed to be tied up in such dues.

In response, the Ministry of MSME is contemplating reforms to simplify procedures and expedite payments. They are also exploring ways to ensure the enforcement of awards issued by the facilitation council.

Additionally, the Ministry is considering incorporating mediation as an alternative dispute resolution method, following the passage of the Mediation Act, 2023. While most contracts between MSMEs and buyers include arbitration clauses, this process can be time-consuming.

These proposals are currently under discussion, and the Ministry plans to engage with stakeholders before finalizing them. The overarching goal is to lay the groundwork for these reforms to be implemented by the next government.

Addressing payment delays is crucial for MSMEs to enhance productivity and efficiency. In line with this, amendments to the Income Tax Act, 1961, have been introduced, stipulating that if a company fails to pay an MSME within 45 days, the overdue amount will be added to its profits, subjecting it to corporate tax. This provision will come into effect from April 1 of this year.

Source: https://www.businesstoday.in/latest/economy/story/centre-considering-amendments-to-msme-development-act-to-ensure-timely-payments-to-small-businesses-421130-2024-03-12

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