Filing GST returns can often feel complicated for businesses, especially for new taxpayers. Among all GST returns, GSTR-1 is one of the most important because it forms the foundation of outward supply reporting under the Goods and Services Tax (GST).
If you’re a business owner, accountant, or entrepreneur, understanding what this return is, its due dates, filing process, and compliance requirements is crucial. In this detailed guide, we’ll simplify everything so you can confidently handle your online GST return filing without stress.
What is GSTR-1?
GSTR-1 (Goods and Service Tax Return 1) is a monthly or quarterly return that businesses registered under GST must file to report their outward supplies (sales) of goods and services.
In simple terms:
- GSTR-1 contains details of all sales invoices issued during a tax period.
- It helps the government track how much GST you’ve collected from customers.
- The data filed in GSTR-1 gets auto-populated in the recipient’s GSTR-2A and GSTR-2B (purchase return).
– Submitting it on time ensures smooth compliance and accurate tax credit availability for your buyers.
Who Should File GSTR-1?
Every registered dealer under GST who makes outward supplies of goods or services must file GSTR-1, except:
- Input Service Distributors (ISD)
- Composition dealers
- Non-resident taxable persons
- Taxpayers liable to collect/deduct TDS or TCS
So, if you’re a regular GST taxpayer involved in sales, filing this return applies to you.
GST Return Filing Deadlines
The due date for filing GSTR-1 depends on your turnover:
- Monthly Filing (Turnover > ₹5 Crore): 11th of the following month.
- Quarterly Filing (Turnover ≤ ₹5 Crore, opted for QRMP scheme): 13th of the month following the quarter.
Example:
- Sales made in April → GSTR-1 due by 11th May.
- Sales made in April-June quarter → GSTR-1 due by 13th July (if QRMP scheme opted).
Missing the due date can attract late fees and interest, so always keep track of the filing deadline.
What Details Should Be Included in GSTR-1?
The return contains details of all outward supplies, such as:
- Invoice details of B2B supplies (Business to Business).
- Invoice details of B2C supplies (Business to Consumer).
- Exports of goods and services.
- Credit/debit notes issued.
- Advance received for supply of services.
- HSN-wise summary of outward supplies.
This ensures full transparency in your sales and tax collection.
How to File GSTR-1 on Goods and Service Tax Portal
Filing GSTR-1 online is a step-by-step process. Here’s how you can do it:
Step 1: Login to GST Portal
Visit the GST Portal using your credentials.
Step 2: Select Services
Go to Services → Returns → Returns Dashboard.
Step 3: Choose GSTR-1
Select the month or quarter you want to file for, and click GSTR-1.
Step 4: Enter Details
Fill in:
- B2B and B2C sales invoices.
- Debit/credit notes.
- Export details.
- Advance receipts.
Step 5: Validate and Save
Check for errors, validate data, and save it.
Step 6: Submit and File with DSC/EVC
Once confirmed, file the return using a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) or an Electronic Verification Code (EVC).
– That’s it! Your online GST return filing is complete.
Late Fees and Penalties for GSTR-1
If you miss the GSTR-1 filing date, you may face:
- Late fee: ₹50 per day of delay (₹25 CGST + ₹25 SGST).
- Late fee for nil return: ₹20 per day (₹10 CGST + ₹10 SGST).
- Interest: 18% per annum on the outstanding tax amount.
By working with Finaccle Advisory Private Limited, you can avoid such penalties with timely reminders and expert compliance management.
Why is GSTR-1 Important?
- Auto-Population of GSTR-2A/2B – Helps your buyers claim Input Tax Credit.
- Transparency in Sales Data – The Government tracks transactions better.
- Avoids Penalties – Timely filing saves money.
- Mandatory for Compliance – GSTR-1 is the foundation of GST returns.
Without filing GSTR-1, you cannot proceed with GSTR-3B filing, making it a must for compliance.
Example of GSTR-1 Filing
Suppose you run a textile business:
- B2B Sales: ₹10,00,000 @ 12% GST → GST = ₹1,20,000
- B2C Sales: ₹5,00,000 @ 18% GST → GST = ₹90,000
- Exports: ₹2,00,000 (Zero-rated supply) → GST = Nil
Total GST Collected = ₹2,10,000
This data must be entered in GSTR-1 for the relevant tax period.
Role of Finaccle Advisory Private Limited
At Finaccle Advisory Private Limited, we make GST compliance simple for businesses of all sizes. Our services include:
- Online GST Registration in India.
- Monthly & quarterly GST return filing (including GSTR-1).
- Expert tax advisory for startups and SMEs.
- Compliance management and error-free filing.
With our professional team, you never have to worry about missing GSTR-1 filing dates or dealing with penalties.
Final Thoughts
Filing GSTR-1 is not just about compliance; it’s about maintaining transparency and ensuring smooth Input Tax Credit flow for your customers. Missing deadlines can result in penalties, so it’s always best to file on time.
With tools and expert services available, online GST return filing has become easier than ever. If you’re still confused about the process or how to file correctly, seeking professional help is the safest option.
Call to Action (CTA)
– Want to avoid penalties and simplify your GST filing?
Connect with Finaccle Advisory Private Limited for Online GST Return Filing and let experts handle your compliance while you focus on growing your business.
