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GST Annual Return Filing – An Overview

GST Annual Return filing is mandatory for every registered taxpayer under the Goods and Services Tax (GST) regime in India. Filing Form GSTR-9 ensures annual reconciliation of your sales, taxes paid, input tax credits claimed, and compliance records with the government. Businesses with turnover above ₹2 crore must also file GSTR-9C with audited statements.

Mandatory Annual Compliance: All regular taxpayers registered under GST must file an annual return, even if there is no business activity.
Reconciliation with Monthly Filings: The annual return reconciles your monthly/quarterly GSTR-1 and GSTR-3B returns with financial statements.
Penalties for Non-Compliance: Late filing attracts penalties and interest, so timely filing is crucial for compliance and avoiding notices.

Documents Required for GST Annual Return Filing


To file your GST annual return (GSTR-9) and reconciliation (GSTR-9C), the following documents are required:

GSTIN and Login Credentials

Monthly/Quarterly GSTR-1 and GSTR-3B Returns Filed

Sales and Purchase Invoices Summary

Input Tax Credit (ITC) Ledger Details

Audited Financial Statements (for GSTR-9C)

Digital Signature (DSC) of Authorized Signatory

GST Annual Return Filing Timeline


The due date for filing GST Annual Return (GSTR-9) is usually 31st December following the end of the financial year. Filing typically takes 3 to 5 working days after receiving complete documents.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Required to File GST Annual Return?

All GST-registered regular taxpayers (except composition scheme taxpayers and casual/non-resident taxpayers) must file GSTR-9 annually.

What is GSTR-9 and GSTR-9C?

GSTR-9 is the annual return form summarizing sales, tax payments, and credits. GSTR-9C is a reconciliation statement certified by a chartered accountant for taxpayers with turnover above ₹2 crore.

What Happens If GST Annual Return is Not Filed?

Late filing attracts a penalty of ₹200 per day (₹100 CGST + ₹100 SGST) and interest on tax dues. Non-filing may also trigger GST audit notices.