Goods and Services Tax (GST) is a comprehensive indirect tax that has been implemented in India since 2017. All businesses registered under GST are required to file regular returns to comply with the law. GSTR-1 is a monthly or quarterly return that contains details of all outward supplies made during the period. However, if a registered taxpayer has not made any outward supplies or sales during the return period, they must file a NIL GSTR-1 return. In this blog, we will discuss how to file NIL GSTR-1 return in a step-by-step manner.
Step 1: Visit the GST Portal
To file a NIL GSTR-1 return, you need to visit the GST Portal. The portal can be accessed by typing https://www.gst.gov.in/ in your web browser. Once the website loads, click on the ‘Services’ tab and select ‘Returns’ from the drop-down menu.
Step 2: Select ‘File Nil GSTR-1’
On the Returns page, you will see a list of all the returns that you are required to file under GST. Since you are filing a NIL GSTR-1 return, click on the ‘File Nil GSTR-1’ button.
Step 3: Select the Return Period
After clicking on the ‘File Nil GSTR-1’ button, you will be directed to a new page where you need to select the return period for which you are filing the return. Choose the appropriate month or quarter from the drop-down menu and click on the ‘Search’ button.
Step 4: Confirm NIL Return
Once you have selected the return period, the portal will display a summary of your previous GSTR-1 return filings. Since you have not made any sales during the period, you need to confirm that you are filing a NIL return. Click on the ‘File Nil GSTR-1’ button to proceed.
Step 5: Verify Your Aadhaar
In the next step, you need to verify your Aadhaar details by providing your Aadhaar number and clicking on the ‘Proceed’ button. If your Aadhaar details are not available, you can choose to verify your return using a digital signature certificate (DSC) or electronic verification code (EVC).
Step 6: File Your Return
After verifying your Aadhaar details, you can file your NIL GSTR-1 return by clicking on the ‘File GSTR-1’ button. Once the return is filed, you will receive a confirmation message on the screen.
In conclusion
Filing a NIL GSTR-1 return is a simple process that can be done online through the GST portal. By following the above-mentioned steps, you can easily file your NIL return and avoid any penalties for non-compliance. It is important to note that even if you have not made any sales during the return period, you are still required to file a NIL return. So, make sure you file your returns on time and stay compliant with GST regulations.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q. What is a Nil GSTR-1 return?
A Nil GSTR-1 return is a GST return that needs to be filed by a registered taxpayer if there are no outward supplies or sales made during the return period.
Q. Who needs to file a Nil GSTR-1 return?
Any registered taxpayer who has not made any outward supplies or sales during the return period needs to file a Nil GSTR-1 return.
Q. Can a Nil GSTR-1 return be filed late?
Yes, a Nil GSTR-1 return can be filed late. However, late filing of returns attracts a penalty, and it is advisable to file returns on time to avoid any penalties.
Q. Can a Nil GSTR-1 return be revised?
No, a Nil GSTR-1 return cannot be revised. Once filed, the return cannot be modified or revised. Therefore, it is crucial to file the return accurately.
Q. What are the consequences of not filing a Nil GSTR-1 return?
Not filing a Nil GSTR-1 return attracts a penalty of Rs. 50 per day (Rs. 20 per day for taxpayers with nil tax liability) until the return is filed.
Q. Can a Nil GSTR-1 return be filed manually?
No, a Nil GSTR-1 return cannot be filed manually. It needs to be filed online through the GST portal.
Q. Is it mandatory to file a Nil GSTR-1 return?
Yes, it is mandatory to file a Nil GSTR-1 return even if there are no outward supplies or sales made during the return period.
Q. What are the documents required to file a Nil GSTR-1 return?
No documents are required to file a Nil GSTR-1 return. The process can be completed online through the GST portal.
Q. How can I check the status of my Nil GSTR-1 return?
You can check the status of your Nil GSTR-1 return by logging into the GST portal and navigating to the Returns Dashboard. Here, you can view the status of all your returns filed under GST.
Q. Can a Nil GSTR-1 return be filed without a GSTIN number?
No, a Nil GSTR-1 return cannot be filed without a valid GSTIN number. It is mandatory to have a GSTIN number to file returns under GST.
