How to File Nil GSTR 1 on portal?
Introduction
Any individual or a legal entity who has been registered under the GST needs or requirement to file a GST return, even If there are no transactions or invoices, the taxpayer still needs to file a GST return, called a Nil GST return. In this article, we will discuss about the process for GSTR 1 Nil Return Filing on the GST portal.
What is GSTR 1?
GSTR-1 is a GST return form that businesses in India must file to report their outward supplies, including sales, exports, and interstate transactions. It contains details like the GSTIN of buyers, invoice details, and tax amounts for each sale. The form helps the government track the flow of goods and services and ensure proper tax collection. It is usually filed monthly or quarterly, with deadlines set for the 11th or 13th of the following month, depending on the filing frequency.
What is Nil GSTR 1?
A Nil GSTR-1 is a form that businesses in India file to report that they didn’t make any sales or provide any services during a certain period. Even if there were no transactions, the business still needs to file this form to stay in line with GST rules.
Eligibility for Filing Nil GSTR 1
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GST Registered: You must be registered under GST.
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No Sales: File Nil GSTR-1 if there are no sales or outward supplies.
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No Transactions: If no invoices, credit, or debit notes were issued.
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All GST Registrants: Can be filed by both monthly and quarterly filers.
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Not for Composition Scheme: Not for those under the composition scheme.
Benefits of filing Nil GSTR 1
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Avoid Late Fees: Filing Nil GSTR-1 stops penalties for non-filing.
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Claim Input Tax Credits: You can claim refunds on input tax credits for future use.
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Proof of Income: Nil returns act as proof of income for loans or visas.
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Keep Business Active: Regular filings keep your business active in the GST system, making it easier when operations resume.
Who should file Nil GSTR 1?
Every taxpayer has to file GSTR 1, even when there are no invoices taking place then also taxpayer needs to file Nil return GSTR 1 form. The taxpayer who is exempt from filing are non – resident taxable persons, input service distributors, and casual taxable persons.
Due Dates for Filing Nil GSTR 1
A taxpayer can file Nil Form GSTR 1, anytime from 1st of the month subsequent of the tax period onwards.
Procedure to File Nil GSTR 1
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Log in to the GST portal.
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Go to the “Returns” section and select “GSTR-1.”
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Choose the filing period (month or quarter).
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Click on “Prepare Online” under GSTR-1.
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Leave the details blank if there are no sales or transactions.
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Click “Submit” after reviewing the summary.
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After verification, your Nil GSTR-1 return will be filed.
How to Check the Status of a Filed Nil GSTR 1 Return?
To check the status of a filed Nil GSTR-1 return:
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Log in to the GST portal.
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Go to the “Returns” section.
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Select “Track Returns” from the menu.
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Enter your GSTIN and the return period, and the portal will show the status of your filed Nil GSTR-1, whether accepted or pending.
Late fees/Penalties for GSTR 1 Nil return
| Turnover | Late fees (in Rs) |
| Nil returns | 500 |
| In between 1.5 crore to 5 crore | 5,000 |
| Up to 1.5 crore | 2,000 |
| Above Rs 5 crore | 10,000 |
Conclusion
Filing Nil GSTR-1 on the GST portal is a simple and necessary process for businesses with no sales or outward supplies during a tax period. It helps avoid penalties, and ensures your business remains active in the GST system.
Regularly filing Nil returns keeps your tax records updated and avoids any legal issues.
Suggested Read :
Difference between GSTR 1 and GSTR 3B
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