22 August 2017
i have no purchase and sales in July... Shall i have to file GSTR1? If Yes, how do i go for it? The portal is not accepting blank return.
27 July 2024
Yes, you are required to file GSTR-1 even if there were no purchases or sales during the period. GSTR-1 is a return that must be filed monthly or quarterly (based on your filing frequency) and it includes details of outward supplies of goods or services.
Here’s how to handle the situation if there were no transactions:
### **1. Filing GSTR-1 with No Transactions**
If you had no transactions in the period (i.e., no sales or purchases), you still need to file a GSTR-1 for that period to comply with GST regulations. Here's what you can do:
#### **a. File a Nil Return**
1. **Login to GST Portal**: - Go to the [GST Portal](https://www.gst.gov.in) and log in with your credentials.
2. **Navigate to GSTR-1**: - Go to **Returns > Returns Dashboard**. - Select the appropriate financial year and return period (e.g., July).
3. **Select “Nil” Return**: - If the portal is not accepting a blank return, ensure you are selecting the option for a “Nil” return if available. - Sometimes, the portal might have an option to file a “Nil” return if there are no transactions.
4. **Submit**: - If you have the option to file a Nil return, submit it. If the portal does not accept it, proceed to the next step.
#### **b. File with Zero Value Entries**
If the portal does not accept a Nil return, you can file the return with zero value entries:
1. **Enter Details**: - Go to the section for entering details of outward supplies. - Enter zero or leave the fields blank as appropriate.
2. **Complete the Filing**: - Ensure that all other required sections (like GST details, etc.) are filled out as necessary. - Submit the return after entering zero or placeholder values where appropriate.
### **2. Common Issues and Solutions**
#### **a. Portal Issues**
- **Technical Glitches**: Sometimes, the GST portal may have technical issues. If the portal is not accepting a Nil return and you have tried the above steps, it could be due to a temporary glitch. Try filing the return at a different time or contact GST support.
#### **b. Contact GST Helpdesk**
- **Helpdesk Support**: If you continue to face issues with filing a Nil return or the portal is not accepting your submission, you should contact the GST helpdesk for assistance. Provide them with details about the issue you’re facing.
#### **c. Filing Delay**
- **Late Fee**: Even if there are no transactions, ensure you file the return on time to avoid any late fees or penalties. If the return is not accepted, document your attempts to file it.
### **3. Other Considerations**
- **Regular Filing**: Even in months with no transactions, timely filing of GSTR-1 is important to avoid non-compliance issues. - **Filing Frequency**: Make sure you’re aware of your filing frequency (monthly or quarterly) and adhere to the deadlines.
### **Summary**
- **File GSTR-1**: You are required to file GSTR-1 even if there were no transactions. - **Nil or Zero Return**: File a Nil return if the portal allows; otherwise, submit with zero value entries. - **Seek Assistance**: If you encounter persistent issues, contact the GST helpdesk for support.
Filing regularly and correctly ensures that your GST compliance is up-to-date and avoids potential penalties or issues with the GST authorities.
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