Hard copy of sale invoices

The registered person has the option to keep and maintain accounts and other records in electronic form. In such a case, the records shall be authenticated by way of digital signature.

Additionally, the GST Law mandates that a proper electronic back-up is maintained and preserved where accounts are maintained electronically, to restore information in the event of its destruction, within a reasonable period of time.

CGST Rule 56(15)

The records under the provisions of this Chapter may be maintained in electronic form and the record so maintained shall be authenticated by means of a digital signature.

CGST Rule 57

Generation and maintenance of electronic records.

(1) Proper electronic back-up of records shall be maintained and preserved in such manner that, in the event of destruction of such records due to accidents or natural causes, the information can be restored within a reasonable period of time.

(2) The registered person maintaining electronic records shall produce, on demand, the relevant records or documents, duly authenticated by him, in hard copy or in any electronically readable format.

(3) Where the accounts and records are stored electronically by any registered person, he shall, on demand, provide the details of such files, passwords of such files and explanation for codes used, where necessary, for access and any other information which is required for such access along with a sample copy in print form of the information stored in such files.