As taxpayers step into 2026, staying compliant with GST and Income Tax laws continues to be a critical challenge. Presented through a thoughtful dialogue between the fictional characters Arjuna and Krishna, this article highlights why the New Year is the ideal time to adopt disciplined tax compliance habits.
For GST compliance, the discussion focuses on timely filing of GSTR-1, correcting errors through GSTR-1A, adopting an effective Invoice Management System (IMS), proper claiming and reversal of ineligible ITC, reconciling GSTR-2B mismatches, and monitoring TDS/TCS credits. These resolutions aim to reduce mismatches, protect ITC claims, and prevent unnecessary notices.
On the Income Tax front, the article emphasizes timely filing of returns, punctual payment of TDS and advance tax, staying updated with amendments including the new Income Tax Act, maintaining accurate books of accounts, and responding promptly to income tax communications.
The central takeaway is clear: tax compliance is a year-long process, not a last-minute exercise. By adopting these resolutions, taxpayers can avoid penalties, reduce compliance risks, and ensure a smoother and stress-free tax journey throughout 2026.
Arjuna (Fictional Character): Krishna, as we step into the new year, taxpayers face the ongoing challenge of staying compliant with both GST and Income Tax laws. With 2026 ahead, what resolutions should taxpayers take to ensure smooth compliance and avoid mistakes and penalties?
Krishna (Fictional Character): Arjuna, the New Year is the perfect opportunity for taxpayers to set clear resolutions that will help them stay on track with their tax obligations. These resolutions not only improve compliance but also make the tax process smoother and more efficient. By adopting resolutions, taxpayers can avoid mistakes and costly penalties, ensuring a successful and hassle-free year.
Arjuna (Fictional Character): Krishna, what are the resolutions that taxpayers should take in 2026 to stay complaint with GST laws?
Krishna (Fictional Character): The following are the resolutions that the taxpayers should take for GST Compliance:
1. Timely Filing of GSTR-1 and rectification of error in GSTR-1A:
Taxpayers should resolve to file their GSTR-1 on or before the due date. Filing on time ensures that the corresponding Input Tax Credit (ITC) is reflected in the recipient's GSTR-2B, allowing them to claim their ITC promptly. If any discrepancies are noticed after filing GSTR-1, they should be corrected in GSTR-1A rather than waiting for the next month's filing.
2. Follow the Invoice Management System (IMS):
Implementing a proper Invoice Management System (IMS) is key to tracking and managing sales and purchases invoice wise. By ensuring that all invoices are correctly recorded and reconciled, taxpayers can avoid errors that may cause discrepancies between what's filed and what's in the books.
3. Claim Ineligible ITC First and then Reverse It:
Taxpayers should claim ineligible ITC first in the "All Other ITC" column of GSTR-3B and then reverse it using the Permanent Reversal tab. This ensures compliance, as sometimes taxpayers mistakenly reduce ineligible ITC from their gross credit instead of reversing it.
4. Reconcile and Reclaim ITC for GSTR-2B Mismatches:
Taxpayers must reconcile ITC reflected in GSTR-2B with their books. If the ITC is reflected in GSTR-2B but not yet booked in the books, it should be claimed and temporarily reversed in GSTR-3B. Once booked in the books, the ITC can be reclaimed in GSTR-3B, keeping taxpayers compliant with the law.
5. Monitor and Accept TDS/TCS Credits:
Taxpayers should regularly check for TDS (Tax Deducted at Source) and TCS (Tax Collected at Source) credits reflected on the GST portal. These credits are often overlooked and remain unclaimed.
Arjuna (Fictional Character) : Krishna, what are the resolutions that taxpayers should take in 2026 for compliance relating to Income Tax?
Krishna (Fictional Character): Arjuna, the following are the resolutions that the taxpayers should take to stay compliant with Income Tax Laws:
1. Filing of income-tax returns on time:
Taxpayers should ensure the timely filing of income tax returns to avoid late fees and penalties. Filing should not be left to the last minute; early filing helps avoid errors and gives taxpayers peace of mind.
2. Timely payment of TDS and advance tax:
Timely payment of TDS (Tax Deducted at Source) and advance tax is essential. By paying taxes on time, taxpayers can avoid penalties and interest and ensure they don't face a large tax liability at year-end.
3. Stay Updated on Tax Laws:
Taxpayers should stay updated on tax laws and amendments, including the introduction of the new Income Tax Act in 2026. Understanding taxable income, deductions, and compliance rules helps prevent mistakes and disputes.
4. Maintaining proper records and books of accounts:
Maintaining accurate records and books throughout the year is essential. It avoids the chaos of last-minute documentation at year-end and ensures that tax filings are based on correct and reliable information. Timely review of income details, bank statements, and expense records makes the filing process smooth.
5. Pay Attention to Income Tax Emails and SMS Alerts:
Taxpayers should resolve to read and respond to income tax emails and SMS alerts. These messages often contain important information such as discrepancies in returns, filing reminders, or notices for pending actions.
Arjuna (Fictional Character): Krishna, what should we learn from this?
Krishna (Fictional Character): Arjuna, the key lesson here is that compliance is not a last-minute task but a continuous process throughout the year. By adopting these resolutions, taxpayers ensure that they meet their tax obligations on time, avoid penalties, and stay informed about changes in tax laws.
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