Annual return limit

The exemption limit for Annual Return varies depending on the type of entity and the Act governing it.

Here are some common exemption limits: - Under the Companies Act, 2013: -

 Small companies (turnover < ₹2 cr): exempt from filing annual return (Form MGT-7) - Private companies (turnover < ₹100 cr): can file a simplified annual return (Form MGT-7A) - Under the Income-tax Act, 1961:

- Individuals (income < ₹2.5 lakh): exempt from filing income tax return (ITR) -

Hindu Undivided Families (HUFs) and Association of Persons (AOPs) (income < ₹2.5 lakh): exempt from filing ITR -

Under the Goods and Services Tax (GST) Act: - Taxpayers with turnover < ₹2 cr: exempt from filing annual return (Form GSTR-9) -

 Taxpayers with turnover < ₹5 cr: can file a simplified annual return (Form GSTR-9A)

Please note that these exemption limits are subject to change, and additional conditions may apply.

For FY 2025-26 (due December 31, 2026), GSTR-9 is mandatory if your aggregate turnover exceeds Rs. 2 crore. Below that threshold, it is optional but filing is still recommended to keep your compliance record clean.

A few things to distinguish:
- Turnover below Rs. 2 crore: GSTR-9 is optional, you can skip it without penalty
- Turnover between Rs. 2 crore and Rs. 5 crore: GSTR-9 is mandatory, GSTR-9C (reconciliation statement) is not required
- Turnover above Rs. 5 crore: both GSTR-9 and GSTR-9C (certified by a CA or CMA) are mandatory
- Composition dealers: file GSTR-9A or GSTR-4 (annual return on composition scheme), not the regular GSTR-9

The annual return consolidates your GSTR-1 and GSTR-3B data for the full year, so reconcile your monthly returns before filing to avoid mismatches that trigger scrutiny notices.

This [guide to types of GST returns](https://taxgarden.in/blog/types-of-gst-returns-india-2026) covers GSTR-9, GSTR-9C and GSTR-9A applicability with turnover thresholds.