Advisory on Case Insensitivity in IRN Generation

Updated on: 4th April 2025

This is to inform you that, effective 1st June 2025, the IRP (Invoice Reporting Portal) would treat invoice/document numbers as case-insensitive for the purpose of IRN generation.

Advisory on Introduction of Form ENR-03 for Enrolment of Unregistered Dealers/Persons in e-Way Bill Portal for generating e-way Bill.

Updated on: 15th Feburary 2025

A new feature has been introduced in the E-Way Bill (EWB) system to facilitate the enrolment of unregistered dealers supplying goods, with effect from 11.02.2025.

Advisory for GST Registration Process (Rule 8 of CGST Rules, 2017)

Updated on: 12th Feburary 2025

In line with recent developments in the GST registration process, applicants must adhere to the following steps as per Rule 8 of the CGST Rules, 2017:

ADVISORY ON E-WAY BILL GENERATION FOR GOODS UNDER CHAPTER 71

Updated on: 6th Feburary 2025

Natural or cultured pearls and precious or semi-precious stones; precious metals and metals clad with precious metal, Jewellery, goldsmiths’, and silversmiths’ articles, except those classified under HSN 7117(Imitation Jewellery), are exempt from the mandatory requirement of generating an E-Way Bill.

Advisory on Business Continuity for e-Invoice and e-Waybill Systems

Updated on: 24th January 2025

This advisory is issued to highlight the alternate mechanisms and business continuity plans available for both the e-Invoice and e-Waybill systems.

If you have not integrated these alternate mechanisms into your existing systems or are not currently utilising them, GSTN suggest coordinating with your system integrators, IRPs, ERPs, GSPs, or ASPs to enable these redundancies. This would ensure that these mechanisms are fully operational and accessible when needed.

Advisory for Entry of Receipt Numbers Pertaining to Leased Wagons in the E-Way Bill System

Updated on: 23rd December 2024

Guidelines for Accurate Entry of Receipt Numbers in the E-Way Bill (EWB) System for Leased Wagons

Advisory for Entry of RR No./eT-RRs in EWB system Post EWB-FOIS Integration

Updated on: 18th December 2024

Guidance for Accurate Entry of RR No./eT-RRs following the Integration of E-Way Bill (EWB) with Freight Operation Information System (FOIS) system of Indian Railways.

Advisory on Updates to E-Way Bill and E-Invoice Systems

Updated on: 17th December 2024

GSTN is pleased to announce that NIC will be rolling out updated versions of the E-Way Bill and E-Invoice Systems effective from 1st January 2025. These updates are aimed at enhancing the security of the portals, in line with best practices and government guidelines.

Advisory: E-Invoice Glossary and Steps

Updated on: 29th November 2024

GSTN has prepared an informative resource in the form of an e-invoice glossary and a step-by-step guide for your reference.

You can access and download the PDF document by clicking on the link below:

Advisory: Authorised e-Invoice Verification Apps

Updated on: 27th November 2024

GSTN has prepared a consolidated document on authorized B2B e-Invoice verification apps available for download. The said document would serve as a reference to ensure that taxpayers have the most up-to-date information regarding approved B2B e-Invoice verification apps.

Taxpayers could access and download the PDF document by clicking on the link below:

Advisory for Reporting TDS Deducted by scrap Dealers in October 2024

Updated on: 26th November 2024

As per Notification No. 25/2024-Central Tax, effective from 10.10.2024, any registered person receiving supplies of metal scrap classified under Chapters 72 to 81 of the First Schedule to the Customs Tariff Act, 1975 (51 of 1975), from another registered person, is required to deduct TDS under Section 51 of the CGST Act, 2017.

Important advisory on GSTR 2B and IMS

Updated on: 16th November 2024

It has been reported by few taxpayers that their GSTR-2B for October-2024 period has not been generated on 14th November, 2024. In this regard it to be informed that as per the design of IMS, GSTR-2B will not be generated by the system in below scenarios:

Advisory on IMS on Supplier View

Updated on: 13th November 2024

Invoice Management System (IMS) has been made available on the GST Portal from 14th October, 2024 wherein the recipient taxpayer can accept, reject or keep the invoices pending which are saved/filed by their suppliers in their respective GSTR-1/1A/IFF. This is to further inform you that the first GSTR-2B on the basis of such actions taken in IMS by the recipient taxpayers will be generated on 14th November, 2024 for October-2024 period.

Advisory regarding IMS during initial phase of its implementation

Updated on: 12th November 2024

Invoice Management System (IMS) is an optional facility introduced from October 2024 on GST Portal, on which the invoices/records saved/furnished by the supplier in GSTR-1/1A/IFF, can be accepted, rejected or kept pending by recipients .Based on the action taken by the recipient on the IMS, system will generate the GSTR 2B of the recipient on 14th of subsequent month.

ADVISORY FOR WAIVER SCHEME UNDER SECTION 128A

Updated on: 8th November 2024

For reducing the tax disputes and to provide a big relief to the taxpayers, GST Council in its 53rd meeting held on 22nd June, 2024 had recommended for waiver of interest and penalties in the demand notices or orders issued under Section 73 of the CGST Act, 2017 (i.e. the cases not involving fraud, suppression or wilful misstatement, etc.) for the Financial years 2017-18, 2018-19 and 2019-20. To avail this waiver, the condition is that the full tax demanded is paid on or before 31.03.2025.

Advisory related to ‘Other Territory’ applications

Updated on: 7th November 2024

Dear Taxpayers,

As per Notification No. 2/2017-Central Tax dated 19th June, 2017 read with Trade Notice No. 01/2017-Central Tax dated 21st June, 2017 issued by Office of the Chief Commissioner of Central Excise, 

Advisory for Form GST DRC-03A

Updated on: 5th November 2024

It has been observed that some taxpayers have paid the demanded amount vide DRC 07/DRC 08/MOV 09/MOV 11/APL 04 through DRC-03 instead of using payment facility ‘Payment towards demand’ available on GST portal. This led to a situation where demand has been paid by the taxpayer, however the demand is not closed in the electronic liability register. To address this issue, the government has notified a new form named GST DRC-03A which was notified vide Notification No. 12/2024 dated. 10th July 2024.

Time Limit for Reporting e-Invoice on the IRP Portal – Lowering of Threshold to AATO 10 Crores and Above

Updated on: 5th November 2024

1. With reference to the earlier advisory dated 13th September 2023 (https://einvoice.gst.gov.in/einvoice/newsandupdates/read-602), where a time limit of 30 days for reporting e-Invoices on IRP portals for taxpayers with an AATO of 100 crores and above was implemented, the threshold has now been lowered to cover taxpayers with an AATO of 10 crores and above.

Gross and Net GST revenue collections for the month of Oct, 2024

Updated on: 1st November 2024

Please click on the link below to view the gross and net GST revenue collections for the month of October, 2024.

Barring of GST Return on expiry of three years

Updated on: 29th October 2024

As per the Finance Act,2023 (8 of 2023), dt. 31-03-2023, implemented w.e.f 01-10-2023 vide Notification No. 28/2023 – Central Tax dated 31th July, 2023, the taxpayers shall not be allowed file their GST returns after the expiry of a period of three years from the due date of furnishing the said return under Section 37 ( Outward Supply), Section 39 (payment of liability), Section 44 ( Annual Return) and Section 52 (Tax Collected at Source). These Sections cover GSTR-1, GSTR 3B, GSTR-4, GSTR-5, GSTR-5A, GSTR-6, GSTR 7, GSTR 8 and GSTR 9.

Advisory - Reg 07

Updated on: 22nd October 2024

GSTN has introduced an update to facilitate the registration compliance for buyers of metal scrap through form GST REG-07. This update follows the new GST provisions for metal scrap buyers as outlined in the advisory issued on October 13.
Taxpayers in this category are required to select “Others” in Part B of Table 2 under the “Constitution of Business” section. A text box will appear where the taxpayer must enter “Metal Scrap Dealers.” This entry is mandatory for those selecting the “Others” option. Once this is completed, the remaining details in form GST REG-07 should be filled and submitted on the common portal to meet the registration requirements as per Notification No. 25/2024 – Central Tax, dated October 9, 2024.

Validation of bank account details while adding bank account as Non Core amendment

Updated on: 22nd October 2024

Dear Taxpayer,

GSTN has implemented a validation process for cases where a taxpayer attempts a non-core amendment to update bank account details. Taxpayers are requested to follow the procedure outlined in the link provided below while adding bank account details on the portal.

Additional FAQs on IMS

Updated on: 17th October 2024

Invoice Management System (IMS) is now available to taxpayers. This new system shall facilitate taxpayers in matching their records/invoices vis a vis issued by their suppliers for availing the correct Input Tax Credit (ITC). Taxpayers can now make use of this facility to seamlessly accept, reject, or keep invoices pending in the system to avail later as and when required. The first GSTR-2B on the basis of actions taken in IMS would be generated for the return period Oct’24 on 14th November, 2024. 

Hard - Locking of auto-populated liability in GSTR-3B

Updated on: 17th October 2024

In order to assist taxpayers in filing their returns and minimizing human errors, GSTN has continuously improving the GST return filing process and in this endeavor the GST Portal now provides a pre-filled GSTR-3B form, where the tax liability is auto-populated from the declared supplies in GSTR-1/ GSTR-1A/ IFF by the supplier, while the Input Tax Credit (ITC) is auto-populated from GSTR-2B. A detailed system generated pdf of the auto populated GSTR-3B is also provided to all the taxpayers.

Important advisory for GSTR-9/9C

Updated on: 15th October 2024

Starting FY 2023-24, GST system will auto-populate eligible ITC for domestic supplies (excluding reverse charge and imports ITC) from table 3(I) of GSTR-2B to table 8A of GSTR-9. These changes in GSTR-9 and 9C for the FY 2023-24 will be available on the GST portal from today i.e.,15th October 2024 onwards.
Further, a validation utility will be executed progressively (for validation by taxpayers) to complete the auto population of GSTR-9 from GSTR-2B for Apr-23 till Mar-24.

Attention - Advisory on IMS

Updated on: 14th October 2024

    Invoice Management System (IMS) is made available to taxpayers from Today, 14th Oct, 2024. The new system shall facilitate taxpayers in matching their records/invoices vis a vis issued by their suppliers for availing the correct Input Tax Credit (ITC). Taxpayers can make use of this system to take action on the invoices reflecting on IMS from 14th Oct, 2024. The first GSTR-2B would be generated for the return period Oct’24 on 14thNovember, 2024 considering action taken on Invoice Management System. It may be noted that it is not mandatory to take action on invoices in IMS dashboard for GSTR-2B generation.

Advisory for Biometric-Based Aadhaar Authentication and Document Verification for GST Registration Applicants of Kerala, Nagaland and Telangana

Updated on: 5th October 2024

Dear Taxpayers,

This is to inform taxpayers about recent developments concerning the application process for GST registration. It is advised to keep the following key points in mind during the registration process.

1.    Rule 8 of the CGST Rules, 2017 has been amended to provide that an applicant can be identified on the common portal, based on data analysis and risk parameters for Biometric-based Aadhaar Authentication and taking a photograph of the applicant along with the verification of the original copy of the documents uploaded with the application.

Advisory on Proper Entry of RR No./Parcel Way Bill (PWB) Numbers in EWB system Post EWB-PMS Integration

Updated on: 4th October 2024

Subject: Guidance for Accurate Entry of RR No./Parcel Way Bill (PWB) Numbers following the Integration of E-Way Bill (EWB) with Parcel Management System (PMS)

Dear Taxpayers,

It is to inform that the Parcel Management System (PMS) of Indian Railways has now been integrated with the E-Way Bill (EWB) system via Application Programming Interfaces (APIs). This integration facilitates the seamless transfer of RR No./Parcel Way Bill (PWB) data from Railways to e-way bill portal , ensuring better traceability and compliance.

GSTN e-Services App to Replace e-Invoice QR Code Verifier App Shortly

Updated on: 1st October 2024

Dear Taxpayers,

GSTN is pleased to inform the launch of the new GSTN e-Services app, which replaces the old e-Invoice QR Code Verifier App. This app offers the following features:

Verify e-Invoices: Scan the QR code to verify the B2B e-Invoices QR code and check the live status of the Invoice Reference Number (IRN).

Gross and Net GST revenue collections for the month of Sep, 2024

Updated on: 1st October 2024

Please click on the link below to view the gross and net GST revenue collections for the month of September, 2024.

Advisory for Biometric-Based Aadhaar Authentication and Document Verification for GST Registration Applicants of Odisha

Updated on: 29th September 2024

This is to inform taxpayers about recent developments concerning the application process for GST registration. It is advised to keep the following key points in mind during the registration process.

1.  Rule 8 of the CGST Rules, 2017 has been amended to provide that an applicant can be identified on the common portal, based on data analysis and risk parameters for Biometric-based Aadhaar Authentication and taking a photograph of the applicant along with the verification of the original copy of the documents uploaded with the application.

2.  The above-said functionality has been developed by GSTN. It has been rolled out in Odisha on 28th September 2024.

Advisory on issuance of Notices/Orders without digital signatures of the issuing authorities

Updated on: 26th September 2024

Doubts have been created regarding the validity of documents issued by the tax officers on the common portal viz. SCN/Orders without the Digital signatures on the pdf. document downloaded from the common portal. In this context, it is to be mentioned that such documents are generated on the common portal from the login of the officer, who logs in through Digital Signatures.

Archival of GST Returns data on GST portal

Updated on: 24th September 2024

1.  Section 39 (11) of the CGST Act, 2017 , implemented w.e.f 01-10-2023 vide Notification No. 28/2023 – Central Tax dated 31th July, 2023, provides that the taxpayers shall not be allowed file their GST returns after the expiry of a period of three years from the due date of furnishing the said return.

Frequently Asked Questions on IMS

Updated on: 22nd September 2024

With the Introduction of Invoice Management System (IMS), the taxpayers interaction with invoices and business processes will change. This innovative feature empowers taxpayers to seamlessly accept, reject, or keep invoices pending in the system to avail later as and when required, streamlining the reconciliation process, and ensuring greater accuracy and efficiency in GST compliance.

Re-opening of Reporting ITC Reversal Opening Balance

Updated on: 17th September 2024

1. Vide Notification No. 14/2022 – Central Tax dated 05th July, 2022 (read with circular 170/02/2022-GST, Dated 6th July,2022), the Government introduced certain changes in Table 4 of Form GSTR-3B regarding availment & reversal of ITC along-with reporting of re-claimed and ineligible ITC. Accordingly, the re-claimable ITC earlier reversed in Table 4(B)2 may be subsequently claimed in Table 4(A)5 on fulfilment of necessary conditions and such reclaimed ITC also needs to be reported in Table 4D(1)……

Draft Manual on Invoice Management System

Updated on: 17th September 2024

In a significant leap forward in the Goods and Services Tax (GST) ecosystem, the GST Common Portal has unveiled a ground breaking new facility, the Invoice Management System (IMS), revolutionizing the way recipient taxpayers interact with invoices. This innovative feature empowers taxpayers to seamlessly accept, reject, or keep invoices pending in the system to avail later as

Re-opening of Reporting ITC Reversal Opening Balance

Updated on: 17th September 2024

Vide Notification No. 14/2022 – Central Tax dated 05th July, 2022 (read with circular 170/02/2022-GST, Dated 6th July,2022), the Government introduced certain changes in Table 4 of Form GSTR-3B regarding availment & reversal of ITC along-with reporting of re-claimed and ineligible ITC. Accordingly, the re-claimable ITC earlier reversed in Table 4(B)2 may be subsequently claimed in

Advisory for Biometric-Based Aadhaar Authentication and Document Verification for GST Registration Applicants of Bihar, Delhi, Karnataka and Punjab

Updated on: 6th September 2024

Dear Taxpayers,

This is to inform taxpayers about recent developments concerning the application process for GST registration. It is advised to keep the following key points in mind during the registration process.

Advisory on Reporting of supplies to un-registered dealers in GSTR1/GSTR 5

Updated on: 3rd September 2024

Vide Notification No. 12/2024 – Central Tax dated 10th July, 2024, the Government has reduced the threshold limit for reporting of invoice wise details of inter-state taxable outward supplies made to unregistered dealers from 2.5 Lakh to 1 Lakh which needs to be

Invoice Management System

Updated on: 3rd September 2024

To enable taxpayers to efficiently address invoice corrections/amendments with their suppliers through the portal, a new communication process called the Invoice Management System (IMS) is being brought up at portal.

Gross and Net GST revenue collections for the month of Aug, 2024

Updated on: 1st September 2024

Please click on the link below to view the gross and net GST revenue collections for the month of Aug, 2024.

Advisory for Biometric-Based Aadhaar Authentication and Document Verification for GST Registration Applicants of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu AND Chandigarh

Updated on: 24th August 2024

This is to inform taxpayers about recent developments concerning the application process for GST registration. It is advised to keep the following key points in mind during the registration process.

Introduction of RCM Liability/ITC Statement

Updated on: 23rd August 2024

To assist taxpayers in correctly reporting Reverse Charge Mechanism (RCM) transactions, a new statement called “RCM Liability/ITC Statement” has been introduced on the GST Portal. This statement will enhance accuracy and transparency for RCM transactions by capturing the RCM liability shown in Table 3.1(d) of GSTR-3B and its corresponding ITC claimed in Table 4A(2) and 4A(3) of GSTR-3B for a return period. This statement will be applicable from

Advisory for furnishing bank account details before filing GSTR-1/IFF Notification No. 38/2023 – Central Tax New Delhi, the 4th August, 2023

Updated on: 23rd August 2024

As per Rule 10A of Central Goods and Services Tax Rules, 2017 notified vide notification no. 31/2019 dated 28.06.2019, a taxpayer is required to furnish details of a valid Bank Account within a period of 30 days from the date of grant of registration, or before furnishing the details of outward supplies of goods or services or both in FORM GSTR-1or using Invoice Furnishing Facility (IFF), whichever is earlier.

Advisory in respect of Changes in GSTR 8

Updated on: 2nd August 2024

Please refer to the GST Council decision to the effect that TCS rate has been reduced from the current 1% (0.5% CGST + 0.5% SGST/UTGST, or 1% IGST) to 0.5% (0.25% CGST + 0.25% SGST/UTGST, or 0.5% IGST) effective from 10/07/2024 vide Notification No. 15/2024 dated 10.07.2024.

Advisory for Biometric-Based Aadhaar Authentication and Document Verification for GST Registration Applicants of Jammu & Kashmir and West Bengal

Updated on: 2nd August 2024

Dear Taxpayers,

This is to inform taxpayers about recent developments concerning the application process for GST registration. It is advised to keep the following key points in mind during the registration process.

Gross and Net GST revenue collections for the month of July, 2024

Updated on: 1st August 2024

Please click on the link below to view the gross and net GST revenue collections for the month of July, 2024.

Detailed Manual and FAQs on filing of GSTR-1A

Updated on: 1st August 2024

As per the directions of the Government vide notification no. 12/2024 dt 10th July 2024, Form GSTR-1A has been made available to the taxpayers form July 2024’ tax period. GSTR-1A is an optional facility to add, amend or rectify any particulars of a supply reported/missed in the current Tax period’s GSTR-1 before filing of GSTR-3B return of the same tax period.

Gross and Net GST revenue collections for the month of June, 2024

Updated on: 28th July 2024

Please click on the link below to view the gross and net GST revenue collections for the month of June, 2024.

Advisory for Biometric-Based Aadhaar Authentication and Document Verification for GST Registration Applicants of Uttarakhand

Updated on: 28th July 2024

This is to inform taxpayers about recent developments concerning the application process for GST registration. It is advised to keep the following key points in mind during the registration process.

Advisory for FORM GSTR-1A

Updated on: 26th July 2024

The Government vide notification No. 12/2024 – Central Tax dated 10.07.2024, has introduced FORM GSTR-1A which is an optional Form/ facility. This has been provided to the taxpayers to add or amend particulars of a supply of the current tax period, which was missed out or was wrongly reported in FORM GSTR-1 of the..

Refund of tax paid on Inward supply of goods by Canteen Store Department (FORM GST RFD 10A)

Updated on: 22nd July 2024

In reference to Circular No. 227/21/2024-GST issued by GST policy wing, CBIC on 11th July, 2024 for online processing of refund applications filed by Canteen Stores Department (CSD), GSTN has developed an online functionality to enable CSDs to file an application for refund in FORM GST RFD-10A in GST common portal. Know more

Integrated Services from NIC-IRP e-invoice-1 and e-invoice-2 Portals

Updated on: 16th July 2024

GSTN wish to inform that NIC is releasing the integrated services from e-invoice-1 and e-invoice-2 portals on 18th July 2024 on sandbox portals and 1st Aug 2024 on the production portals. These portals run in parallel and now allow for seamlessly inter-operations. The highlights of the portal are as follows:

Refund of additional IGST paid on account of upward revision in prices of goods subsequent to exports

Updated on: 14th July 2024

1. GST Council has approved that application of refund of additional IGST paid on account of upward revision in prices of goods subsequent to exports may also be processed by Tax Administration. Accordingly, Notification No. 12/2024-Central Tax dt. 10th July, 2024 has also been issued. GSTN is in the process of development of a separate category..

Increase in size of documents upload in Principal Place of Business and Additional Place of Business for New Registration and Amendment

Updated on: 9th July 2024

Dear Taxpayer,

GSTN is pleased to inform that changes have been made in size of document upload in Principal Place of Business and Additional Place of Business for New Registration and Amendment catering to the grievances received in the matter from trade.

Taxpayer can now upload following documents up to maximum size of 500 kb in the Principal Place of Business tab and Additional Places of Business tab as mentioned below:-

Enhancements to Address-Related Fields in GST Registration Functionalities

Updated on: 4th June 2024

Dear Taxpayers,

The Following enhancements have been made to address-related fields in the registration functionalities: New Registration, Amendment Application (Core & Non-Core), and Geocoding Business Addresses. These enhancements are based on the analysis of tickets and user feedback. The details are as follows:

Advisory on launch of E-Way Bill 2 Portal

Updated on: 28th May 2024

GSTN is pleased to inform that NIC is releasing the E-Way Bill 2 Portal (https://ewaybill2.gst.gov.in) on 1st June 2024. This portal ensures high availability and runs in parallel to the e-way Bill main portal (https://ewaybillgst.gov.in). The e-way bill 2 portal synchronises the e-way bill details with main portal within a few seconds. The highlights of the portal are as follows:

Information from manufacturers of Pan Masal and Tobacco taxpayers

Updated on: 16th May 2024

Government had issued a notification to seek information from taxpayers dealing in the goods mentioned therein vide Notification No. 04/2024 – Central Tax dated 05-01-2024……

Important Update: Enhancement in the GST Portal

Updated on: 26th April 2024

Dear Taxpayers,

1.  GSTN is pleased to inform that an enhanced version of the GST portal would be launched on 3rd May 2024. The effort is to improve user experience and ensure that the information you need is accessible and easy to navigate.

2.  Key Enhancements Include (PDF with screenshots attached):

i.  News and Updates Section:….

Extension of Due date of GSTR-1 for the period March 24

Updated on: 13th April 2024

“In continuation of the advisory issued on 11.04.24 regarding the due date extension for Form GSTR 1, the Government has extended the due date of filing for March 2024 period to 12.04.24 for monthly taxpayers vide notification no. 09/24 – central tax dated 12.04.2024.”

Highlighs of Budget 2025-26

Updated on: 1st March 2025

Budget Highlights of the Financial Year 2025 – 2026.
Click here for frequently asked question regarding Budget 2025-2026

INCOME-TAX DEDUCTION FROM SALARIES DURING THE FINANCIAL YEAR 2024-25 UNJ)ER SECTION 192 OF THE INCOME-TAX ACT, 1961.

Updated on: 20th Feburary 2025

Reference is invited to Circular No. 24/2022 dated 07.12.2022, whereby the rates of deduction of income-tax from the payment of income under the head “Salarics” under section..

Extension of due date for filing of Form No. 56F under the Income-tax Act, 1961- reg.

Updated on: 18th feburary 2025

Income Tax Act, 1961, hereby extends the due date of filing of report of the accountant as required to be filed under sub-section (8) of section 10AA read with sub-section (5) of section 10A of the Act, for Assessment year 2024-25 from the specified date under section 44AB of the Act to 31.03.2025.

Income Tax Bill 2025

Updated on: 13th Feburary 2025

The contents here are for information purposes only, to enable public to have a quick and an easy access to information, and do not purport to be legal documents.

HIGHLIGHTS OF FINANCE BILL, 2024

Updated on: 2nd February 2024

The contents here are for information purposes only, to enable public to have a quick and an easy access to information, and do not purport to be legal documents. Viewers are advised to verify the content from original Finance Bill, 2024 (Visit https://incometaxindia.gov.in/Pages/budget-and-bills/finance-bill.aspx for Finance Bill, 2024)

ICAI RELEASED REVISED GUIDANCE NOTE ON TAX AUDIT UNDER SECTION 44AB OF INCOME TAX ACT 1961

Updated on: 4th September 2023

The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) has released a revised Guidance Note on Tax Audit under Section 44AB of Income Tax Act 1961.

In an ever-evolving landscape of taxation, where accuracy, compliance, and transparency are paramount, this Guidance Note stands as a beacon of knowledge and insight for all Chartered Accountants engaged in the intricate world of tax audit.

Tax audit, an essential tool in ensuring adherence to tax laws and regulations, demands a profound understanding of intricate legal framework, attention to detail and commitment towards ethical practice. To enable our members to perform tax audits efficiently, the Direct Taxes Committee of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) has taken an initiative of updating the ‘Guidance Note on Tax Audit under section 44AB of the Income-tax Act, 1961’. This Guidance Note provides a comprehensive roadmap to navigate the complexities of tax audit in a strategic and informed manner and also delves into the intricacies of audit procedures.

As the regulatory environment evolves, it is imperative for our members to stay updated and compliant with the ever-changing tax requirements. This Guidance Note not only delves into the core concepts of tax audit but also provides practical insights that will aid taxpayers in ensuring adherence to the statutory norms.

Section 44AB has been introduced in the Income-tax Act, 1961, by the Finance Act, 1984. This section provides for audit of accounts of assessees having total sales, turnover or gross receipts exceeding the specified limits of Rs.40 lakhs for business and Rs.10 lakhs for profession. New Rule 6G, inserted in the Income-tax Rules, prescribes the Forms of Audit report for the above purpose. The requirements for the above audit will apply to accounts relating to previous year relevant to assessment year 1985-86 and subsequent years.

Audit of accounts in the corporate sector has been made compulsory by legislation over a period of years. Realising the importance of audit, in recent years, this requirement is being extended to non-corporate sector also.

Certain appeals to be outside the purview of e-Appeals scheme, 2023

Updated on: 3rd July 2023

The CBDT notified the e-Appeals scheme, 2023 for the expeditious disposal of appeal proceedings in a faceless manner. The CBDT has now notified certain appeals that will be disposed outside the purview of the e-Appeals scheme. Some of these appeals excluded are those appeals against assessment orders which were passed before 13.08.2020 under sub-section 143(3) or 144 of the Act and having disputed demand more than Rs. 10 lakhs; ii. appeals pertaining to international transaction etc. A complete list of appeals excluded from the e-Appeals scheme has also been provided. 

Clarification on TCS rates applicable on remittance under Liberalised Remittance Scheme (‘LRS’) and purchase of overseas tour package

Updated on: 3rd July 2023

The Finance Act, 2023 brought in certain amendments to the TCS provisions on LRS remittances and purchase of overseas tour packages intended to be effective from 01.07.2023. However, considering the practical difficulties faced by the stakeholders, certain relaxations were provided on the said amendments including restoration of the threshold of Rs. 7 lakhs on the TCS applicability and application of higher rates of 20% from 01.10.2023 as against 01.07.2023 proposed by the Finance Act, 2023.

Amendment of rules pertaining to registration, approval and activities of trusts, funds and institutions

Updated on: 3rd July 2023

The CBDT brought in amendments to provisions relating to registration and approvals for charitable trusts and other institutions under section 10(23C) and introduced new Forms 10A (applicable for applications seeking provisional registration / approval) and 10AB (applicable for applications seeking registration/approvals). In this regard, the relevant rules 2C, 11AA and 17A have been amended to provide for the amended provisions of the section 10(23C).

Extension of due dates for filing forms 26Q, 27Q and 27EQ for the first quarter of FY 2023-24

Updated on: 3rd July 2023

Forms 26Q, 27Q and 27EQ for the first quarter of FY 2023-24 were due to be filed on or before 31.07.2023. The CBDT has now provided that these forms can be filed on or before 30.09.2023. 

Tolerance limits for variance between Arm’s length price determined as per the provisions of the Act and the value of international transaction for AY 2023-24

Updated on: 3rd July 2023

The CBDT has notified that for AY 2023-24, where the variation between Arm’s length price and international transaction does not exceed: i. 1% of the value of international transaction in respect of wholesale trading; and ii. 3% of the value of international transaction in respect of other cases then such transactions shall be deemed to be at arm’s length price. Such tolerance benefits are available only in cases where the ALP is determined by either of Profit split method or Other methods. 

Amendments to Income-tax rules, 1961 and introduction of Form 10IEA

Updated on: 3rd July 2023

The Finance Act, 2020 introduced as an option, a new taxation regime which taxed incomes of individuals and HUFs at a lower tax rate after restricting certain exemptions and deductions while computing the total income. The Finance Act 2023 further extended this tax regime to Association of Persons, Body of Individuals and other artificial juridical persons and has made such tax regimes as the ‘default’ tax regime with effect from AY 2024-25. The CBDT has now amended the relevant rules and introduced Form 10IEA to give effect to the amendments brought in by the Finance Act 2023. 

Notification of ITR Forms 1-7 for the AY 2023-24 by the CBDT

Updated on: 22nd Feburary 2023

The CBDT has notified ITR Forms 1-7 applicable for AY 2023-24. This would enable the taxpayers to collate the necessary information required for filing the return of income well in advance.

Centralized Processing of Equalisation Levy Statement Scheme, 2023

Updated on: 22nd Feburary 2023

Finance Act, 2016 introduced the Equalisation Levy (‘EL’) to be collected by taxpayers entering into certain transactions. These transactions are required to be reported to the income-tax department by filing an annual statement. The Finance Act, 2016 authorized the CBDT to formulate a scheme for processing the EL statements filed. The CBDT has now exercised such powers and formulated a scheme for processing such statements.

Amendment of Rules 16CC and 17B and forms 10B and 10BB

Updated on: 22nd Feburary 2023

A trust or institution or other taxpayers involved in charitable activities or educational activities and claiming income-tax exemptions under section 10(23C) or 12A is required to get its accounts audited and furnish such report in form 10B and 10BB.

Easing of Income Tax Compliance.

(Time limit for following compliances extended by 15days to two months or more)

Updated on: 11th January 2022

Compliance Extension
Due date for filing of tax audit report in form 3CA/ 3CB & 3CD for the assessment year 2021-22 15-Feb-22
Due date for filing of accountant’s report on international/ specified domestic transactions in form 3CEB under Section 92E for the assessment year 2021-22 15-Feb-22

Due date for filing return of income for the assessment year 2021-22 if the Assessee (Other than Transfer pricing audit u/s.92E) is a

  1. corporate-Assessee or
  2. non-corporate Assessee (whosebooks of account are required to be audited) or
  3. partner of a fi rm whose accounts are required tobe audited or the spouse of such partner if the provisions of secti on 5A applies
15-Mar-22

Due date for filing return of income for the assessment year 2021-22 if the Assessee (subject to Transfer pricing audit u/s.92E) is a

  1. corporate-Assessee or
  2. non-corporate Assessee (whosebooks of account are required to be audited) or
  3. partner of a fi rm whose accounts are required tobe audited or the spouse of such partner if the provisions of secti on 5A applies
15-Mar-22

Easing of Income Tax Compliance.

(Time limit for following compliances extended by 15days to two months or more)

Updated on: 22nd September 2021

Compliance Extension
Extension of time limit to link PAN and Aadhar under Section 139AA 31-Mar-22

Easing of Income Tax Compliance.

(Time limit for following compliances extended by 15days to two months or more)

Updated on: 09 September 2021

Compliance Extension

Due date for filing return of income for the assessment year 2021-22 for all Assessee other than

  1. corporate-Assessee or
  2. non-corporate Assessee (whose books of account are required to be audited) or
  3. partner of a firm whose accounts are required to be audited or the spouse of such partner if the provisions of section 5A applies or
  4. an Assessee who is required to furnish a report under section 92E.
31-Dec-21
Due date for filing tax audit report for the assessment year 2021-22 in the case of assessees/ partnership firms who are subjected to audit under the Income Tax Act. 15-Jan-22
Due date for filing audit report for the assessment year 2021-22 in the case of assessees who have entered into international/ specified domestic transcation under the Income Tax Act. 31-Jan-22
Due date for filing return of income for the assessment year 2021-22 in the case of assessees/ partners of partnership firms who are subjected to audit under the Income Tax Act 15-Feb-22
Due date for filing return of income for the assessment year 2021-22 in the case of assessees who have entered into international/ specified domestic transction under the Income Tax Act. 28-Feb-22
Due date for filing revised/ belated return of income for the Assessment Year 2021-22 under the Income Tax Act. 31-Mar-22

Easing of Income Tax Compliance.

(Time limit for following compliances extended by 15days to two months or more)

Updated on: 25th June 2021

Compliance Extension
Filing TDS Statements From June 30 to July 15
Issuing tax deduction certificate From July 15 to July 31
Filing foreign remittance statement From July 15 to July 31
Submission of registration of trusts and institutions From June 30 to August 31
Submitting form for equalisation levy From June 30 to July 31
Uploading of form of no TDS claims cases From July 15 to August 31
Submitting objection to dispute resolution panel From June 1 onwards to August 31
Submitting option to withdraw cases from settlement commission From June 27 to July 31

Relief to Income Tax Payers

Updated on: 25th June 2021

  • Time to invest in Residential House for tax deduction extension for more than 3months.Investment required to be made on or after 1st April can be made upto 30th September
  • PAN Aadhar Linking extension of 3months from 30th June to 30th September
  • Vivad se Vishwas Payment without interest- extension by 2months (30th June to 30th August)
  • Closing the scheme with interest in the next 2months by 31st October
  • Time for making assessments and pass penalty offer – extension for 3 months 30th June to 30th september

Income Tax Concession for Payments towards Covid Treatment or Death

Updated on: 25th June 2021

Amount paid for medical treatment to an employee by employer or to any person by any other person on account of treatment of Covid for FY 19-20 and subsequent year would not be taxed in the hands employee or the person receiving the benefit.

Ex-gratia payment by an employer to an employee’s family, or by any other person to any person’s family on death of the employee or any other person on account of Covid for FY19-20 or subsequent year would be exempt from tax, restricted to 10lakhs

IT department releases new utility file to check vendor compliance

Updated on: 25th June 2021

IT department has released a new utility file to check for the vendor compliance details which are required to meet new Income Tax TDS provisions w.e.f. 1st July 2021.