Master in Accounts & high court Advocate
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Posted on 06 December 2024
Non-Issuance of E-Way Bills The GST audit findings indicate that the Registered Taxpayer (RTP) did not issue e-way bills for invoices with values exceeding the threshold limit.
Although there were no issues with the movement of goods, the AO is considering imposing penalties and reversing input credit.
Penalty for Non-Issuance of E-Way Bills As per Section 122(1) of the CGST Act, 2017, a penalty of ₹10,000 or an amount equivalent to the tax evaded, whichever is greater, can be imposed for non-issuance of e-way bills.
However, in this case, since the RTP has declared the liability in GSTR-1 and is not evading tax, the penalty might not be applicable.
Reversal of Input Credit Regarding the reversal of input credit, Section 16(2) of the CGST Act, 2017, states that input credit can be availed only if the supplier has complied with the provisions of the Act, including the issuance of e-way bills.
However, in this case, since the RTP has declared the liability in GSTR-1 and has paid the tax, the reversal of input credit might not be justified. RTP's Possible Course of Action 1. _Reply to the GST audit findings_: The RTP should respond to the audit findings, explaining the circumstances and providing evidence that the liability was declared in GSTR-1 and tax was paid. 2. _Seek clarification on penalty and input credit reversal_: The RTP should seek clarification from the AO on the penalty and input credit reversal, citing the relevant provisions of the CGST Act, 2017. 3. _Consult a tax professional_: It is recommended that the RTP consults a tax professional or chartered accountant to ensure they are in compliance with GST regulations and to represent them in the GST audit proceedings.