1. **Registered Taxpayers:** - **Business Owners:** The primary responsibility for filing GST e-returns lies with the registered taxpayer or business owner. This includes individuals, partnerships, companies, and other entities that are registered under GST. - **Authorized Signatories:** Individuals authorized by the registered business can file the GST returns on behalf of the business. This could be a manager, finance officer, or any designated person.
2. **GST Practitioners:** - **Role of GST Practitioners:** GST Practitioners, who are professionals trained and authorized to handle GST-related tasks, can assist with filing GST returns. They are not compulsory but can be hired to manage GST compliance, including filing returns, maintaining records, and advising on GST matters.
- **Authorized Signatories for Practitioners:** GST Practitioners must be authorized by the taxpayer to file returns on their behalf. The authorization can be done through the GST portal by providing the required details and authorization letters.
**Is Practitioner Compulsory?** - **Not Compulsory:** The use of a GST Practitioner is not mandatory. Taxpayers can file GST returns directly themselves if they have the necessary knowledge and resources. - **Optional Assistance:** Practitioners can be hired for assistance if the taxpayer prefers professional help or lacks the expertise to handle GST compliance.
### **2. Adjustment of Excess VAT Balance**
**Adjusting Excess VAT Balance:**
If a business has an excess VAT balance as on 30/06/2017 and wishes to adjust it under GST, the process is as follows:
1. **Transition Provision:** - **VAT Credit Adjustment:** Under the transitional provisions of GST, a registered person is allowed to carry forward the input tax credit of VAT (VAT Credit) into GST. This is subject to certain conditions and requirements laid down by GST law.
2. **Procedure for Adjustment:** - **Form GST TRAN-1:** To claim the credit of excess VAT, the business must file **Form GST TRAN-1** (or its updated versions) during the transition phase. This form allows taxpayers to carry forward the credit from the pre-GST regime to the GST regime. - **Filing the Form:** The form should be filed on the GST portal, and the taxpayer must provide details of the excess VAT credit that needs to be carried forward. The information provided in the form should match the records of VAT maintained by the business.
3. **Conditions and Documentation:** - **Supporting Documents:** Ensure that all relevant supporting documents, such as VAT invoices and returns, are in place as they may be required for verification. - **Compliance with Rules:** Comply with all rules and conditions specified by the GST authorities for the transition of credit from VAT to GST.
4. **In Case of Issues:** - **Technical Issues:** If there are technical issues or discrepancies during the filing of Form GST TRAN-1, businesses should contact the GST helpdesk or consult with a tax professional for assistance. - **Revised Returns:** There may be provisions for revised returns or rectifications if there are errors in the initially filed forms.
### **Summary**
- **GST e-Return Filing:** Can be done by registered taxpayers themselves or through authorized GST Practitioners. - **Excess VAT Adjustment:** Requires filing Form GST TRAN-1 to carry forward the excess VAT balance into the GST regime. Ensure all conditions and documentation requirements are met.
For accurate and detailed guidance, it is always advisable to consult with a GST expert or tax advisor, especially for complex scenarios involving credit adjustments and filing procedures.
CAclubindia
