Only about 15% of taxpayers have filed GST Returns - CBIC

With the last date to file GST Annual Return and GST Audit report fast approaching, a complex filing process and numerous data requirement has meant very few taxpayers have been able to comply with the filing process 

In a letter to all Principal Chief Commissioners and Chief Commissioners of Central Tax, CBIC Chairman Pranab K Das writes that data available till August 3 shows that only 14,85,863 GSTR-9 has been filed, while all non-composition taxpayers are supposed to file annual returns. This number of taxpayers needed to file GST annual return stands at over one crore. Similarly, the status of filing GSTR-9A stands at 4,33,148 and GSTR-9C at 11,334. About 12 lakh registered taxpayers are required to get their accounts audited and filed under GSTR-9C. 

The last date to file GSTR 9, GSTR-9A and GSTR-9C is August 31, 2019, but the dismal figures has prompted Das to get the tax Commissioners to help out with the process and expedite the return filing process. 

“Considering the last date is approaching fast, there is a need to reach out to the taxpayers to ask and help them to file the annual returns/reconciliation statement before the due date. Wherever required, they should be guided through the various steps of the return filing process. Towards this end, I request you to organize outreach initiatives in your ones to help the taxpayers file their returns in time. Such outreach programme may be organized at the Commissionerate level as well as Division level. The overarching objective of the exercise is to ensure that the best help and assistance is available to taxpayers in filing their annual returns/reconciliation statement well before the due date,” says the letter from Das.  #casansaar (Source - Economic Times)