A Checklist to Ensure Timely GST Return Filing and Payment

• Why is GST return filing important?
• Who needs to file GST return?
• The ultimate GST return filing checklist for FY 2025-26
• How to pay GST securely and conveniently?
• Streamline your GST payments with DCB GST Payment Solution
• How do I use DCB GST payment solution?
• Summary

Goods and Services Tax (GST) replaced multiple indirect taxes with one unified system. Whether you are a service provider, trader, or manufacturer, GST return filing ensures:

•    Compliance with Indian tax regulations
•    Smooth claim of Input Tax Credit (ITC)
•    Timely reconciliation of outward and inward supplies
•    A clean record to avoid notices, audits, and penalties

Failing to file returns on time can lead to certain penalties and restriction on ITC claims, unavoidable financial setback.

As per GST legislation:
•    Businesses supplying goods with turnover above ₹40 Lakh in normal category States, or ₹20 Lakh in special category States must file returns
•    Service-based businesses with turnover over ₹20 Lakh (or ₹10 Lakh in special category States) must also file returns
•    Any person who has obtained GST registration on voluntary basis

After obtaining GST registration, even if no business is conducted in a month, you must file a NIL return to avoid penalties even if no business is conducted in a month, you must file a NIL return to avoid penalties.

1.    Keep your GSTIN handy: 
Your GST Identification Number is essential for login and tracking returns.

2.    Know your due dates:
•    GSTR-1 (Details of outward supplies): 11th of following month
•    GSTR-3B (Summary return): 20th of following month
•    GSTR-9/9c (Annual return): 31st December of the following Financial Year

3.    Match sales and purchase invoices:
Ensure accurate reconciliation of GSTR-2A/ 2B with purchase records to maximise ITC and avoid mismatches.

4.    Cross-check Input Tax Credit (ITC):
Claim only eligible ITC. Maintain vendor invoices, payment proofs, and ensure suppliers have filed their returns.

5.    Review payment status:
Before filing, check if GST dues are cleared. Delays in GST return payment can attract interest at 18% p.a.

6.    Prepare challans early:
Do not wait until the due date. Use the GST portal to create your challan and select your payment method.

7.    Have sufficient funds:
Ensure your business account or linked Savings Account has enough balance before initiating payment.

8.    Keep records organised:
File soft and hard copies of acknowledgements, challans, invoices, and reconciliations.

9.    Use digital signatures or EVC:
Validate returns using Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) or Electronic Verification Code (EVC).

10.    Track filing history:
Regularly log in to https://www.gst.gov.in to track submitted and pending returns.

Filing is incomplete without payment of GST, if any. Once you generate a challan on the GST portal, here are your options:

1.    Net Banking: Through authorised banks
2.    IMPS, NEFT or RTGS: Via your bank’s interface
3.    Over The Counter (OTC): By submitting challan and payment (cash, cheque, DD) at authorised bank branches

For smoother tracking and budgeting, many businesses prefer to use a separate bank account to manage GST-related transactions.

DCB Bank is an authorised GST collecting agency for the Government of India. DCB GST Payment Solution offers a secure, simple, and fast way to pay your taxes.

Benefits include:
•    No processing or service fee
•    Integration with the GST portal of the Government
•    Acknowledgements and downloadable challans
•    Online and offline payment options

1.    Visit https://www.gst.gov.in
2.    Login with GSTIN or credentials
3.    Navigate to Services > Payments > Create Challan
4.    Enter GSTIN and payment details
5.    Select DCB Bank as your preferred payment bank
6.    Choose payment mode:
       For e-payments: Use DCB Internet Banking credentials
       For OTC payments: Submit printed challan at DCB Bank branch
7.    After payment, download the acknowledgement for your records

It is advised to the customer to pay in advance and avoid last minute payments so as to ensure the same is reflected in the GST accounts on time and last-minute glitches if any can be avoided.

How to stay compliant and avoid penalties?

•    Mark your calendar with GST due dates and ensure filing of returns on a timely basis
•    Reconcile records monthly
•    Use DCB GST Payment Solution for efficient GST payments 
•    Download challans/ receipts immediately
•    Maintain copies on necessary records for audits and annual returns

Filing and paying GST does not have to be complicated or stressful. A clear GST return filing checklist, proper organisation of data and records, and timely actions can help your business stay compliant and penalty-free.

DCB Bank makes it even simpler with dedicated digital platforms for GST payments. Choose DCB GST Payment Solution today, and take the first step towards streamlined, stress-free tax compliance.

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Disclaimer- This blog is for information purposes and customer must visit the GST website for more detailed information about the various forms and timelines etc and DCB Bank should not be held liable for any omission. Additionally, there can be changes in the Govt. policies for which customer needs to periodically visit GST sites and keep themselves updated.

Information on the website is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Readers are advised to consult financial professionals for personalized advice before making decisions. The information on this blog is subject to change without notice and may become obsolete. DCB Bank reserves the right to modify, update, or remove content at any time. Savings Account and Fixed Deposit Interest rates are subject to change without prior notice. DCB Bank shall not be responsible for any direct / indirect loss or liability incurred by the reader for taking any financial decision based on the contents and information mentioned in this blog. By accessing and using this blog, users agree to adhere to these terms and conditions. To read the complete disclaimer of DCB Bank, please click here