Indirect Tax

GST Compliances

Compliance guidelines regarding the new system of GST
set forth a sense of discipline among the citizens of India. It mandates each
business to comply with the various GST guidelines and pay taxes without missing
out. That
is why each business must compulsorily adopt the GST compliance protocols that the
government had set forth for them to follow. GST rules are generally updated
regularly. But there are three primary categories to focus
on-




    • Tax Invoice Compliance



    • Return Filing Compliance



    • Registration Compliance

Compliance guidelines regarding the new system of
GST set forth a sense of discipline among the citizens of India. It mandates
each business to comply with the various GST guidelines and pay taxes without
missing out.
That is why each business must compulsorily adopt the GST compliance protocols
that the government had set forth for them to follow. GST rules are generally
updated regularly. But there are three primary categories
to focus on-

Refunds

The GST refund process requires the taxpayer to follow
specific steps, submit documents and declaration if required, to the GST authorities
for claiming a GST refund. The refunds under GST can be for the excess cash balance
deposited in the electronic cash ledger or tax paid by mistake or the accumulated
Input Tax Credit (ITC) which couldn’t be utilised for tax payments due to zero-rated
sales or inverted tax structure.

The forms in which a GST refund is claimed varies according
to the type of GST refund being claimed. For instance, the refund of IGST in exports
(with tax payment) can be claimed only through reporting details in the GSTR-1
and GSTR-3B. However, the refund of cash paid in excess of the electronic cash
ledger can be claimed by applying in form RFD-01. Therefore, the steps or the
process differs with the type of GST refund.

Handling Departmental Audits

A departmental GST audit is a crucial process that ensures
businesses comply with GST regulations. This article provides a comprehensive
checklist for businesses to follow during a GST audit, covering aspects such as
sales,
purchases, reconciliations, and required documentation.

Under GST laws, the Commissioner of CGST/SGST or an
authorized officer can conduct audits of taxpayers, with a notice (Form GST ADT-01)
issued at least 15 days prior to the audit. The audit period is specified, and
commencement
occurs after the taxpayer’s first submission. Designated personnel for coordination
with the GST department must be provided. Audits should be completed within 3
months, extendable by 6 months with written reasons.
Auditors verify books of accounts, issue observation letters, to which taxpayers
must respond with evidence. A draft audit report is then issued, followed by a final
report (ADT-02) within 30 days. Detection of tax
discrepancies can lead to actions under sections 73 or 74 by the proper officer.

Designing and Implementation of Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) for Indirect Taxes

Business should not depend on individuals for key
business process especially indirect taxation which has impact on all business
transactions. This necessitates developing robust SOP under indirect tax for smooth
functioning
of business. The need of SOP is felt in medium and large size business. We have
successfully designed operating procedures for small to giant size clients be it
manufacturer, trader, service provider, dealer or importer.
It has been seen that wherever such procedures have been followed, it has resulted
in significant decline in department actions.

GST Consultancy Support Services

GST Consultancy Support Services provide comprehensive
assistance to businesses navigating the complexities of Goods and Services Tax (GST)
regulations. These services encompass a range of strategic guidance tailored to
the specific needs of the client, including tax planning, compliance support,
advisory on GST implications for business transactions, representation during tax
audits and investigations, and assistance with GST registration
and filing processes. Consultants in this field stay abreast of evolving GST laws
and regulations, offering insights and solutions to optimize tax outcomes, ensure
compliance, and mitigate risks. By leveraging their
expertise and experience, GST consultancy support services play a crucial role in
helping businesses effectively manage their GST obligations and maximize their tax
efficiency.

GST Litigation Services

GST Litigation Services are specialized offerings
provided by legal professionals or firms to assist businesses facing disputes or
legal challenges related to Goods and Services Tax (GST) matters. These services
encompass
a range of legal support tailored to the needs of the client, including
representation before tax authorities, appellate tribunals, and courts at various
levels. Litigation services may involve assessing the merits
of a case, formulating legal strategies, preparing and filing petitions,
representing clients during hearings, and negotiating settlements when feasible.
Consultants in this field possess expertise in GST laws and regulations,
procedural requirements, and case precedents, enabling them to provide effective
advocacy and defense for their clients. By leveraging their legal acumen and
experience, GST litigation services aim to resolve disputes
efficiently, protect the interests of businesses, and achieve favourable outcomes in
GST-related legal proceedings.