GSTR-3B is a self-declaration return that businesses registered under GST in India must file monthly or quarterly. Filing it accurately ensures compliance with GST laws and avoids penalties. This guide will walk you through the steps to file GSTR-3B online.

What is GSTR-3B?

GSTR-3B is a summary return that requires details of:

1. Sales and Output Tax Liability
2. Input Tax Credit (ITC)
3. Tax Paid

This return serves as a mechanism for taxpayers to discharge their GST liability.

Who Needs to File GSTR-3B?

All GST-registered taxpayers, except for composition scheme taxpayers, input service distributors, and a few other categories, must file GSTR-3B.

Due Dates for Filing GSTR-3B

1. Monthly Filers: 20th of the following month.
2. Quarterly Filers: Based on the QRMP (Quarterly Return, Monthly Payment) scheme deadlines.

Prerequisites for Filing GSTR-3B

1. A valid GSTIN (GST Identification Number).
2. Access to the GST portal (gst.gov.in).
3. Sales, purchases, and ITC data for the filing period.
4. Payment of any outstanding GST liability.

Steps to File GSTR-3B Online

Step 1: Log In to the GST Portal

1. Visit gst.gov.in.
2. Enter your username and password to access the dashboard.

Step 2: Navigate to GSTR-3B

1. On the dashboard, click on ‘Returns Dashboard.’
2. Select the relevant financial year and month.
3. Click on ‘Prepare Online’ under GSTR-3B.

Step 3: Fill in the Details

1. Section 3.1: Outward Supplies and Inward Supplies Liable to Reverse Charge
   • Enter taxable value and tax amounts under IGST, CGST, and SGST.
2. Section 3.2: Inter-State Supplies
   • Provide details of inter-state sales to unregistered persons, composition taxpayers, and UIN holders.
3. Section 4: Eligible ITC
   • Enter input tax credit details, segregating ITC on imports and other inward supplies.
4. Section 5: Exempt, Nil-Rated, and Non-GST Supplies
   • Enter details for supplies that are exempt or outside the GST scope.

Step 4: Validate and Save

After entering the data, click ‘Save’ to validate the details.

Step 5: Pay GST Liability

1. Calculate the net tax liability using available ITC.
2. Use the ‘Make Payment’ option to pay any outstanding liability through electronic cash or credit ledger.

Step 6: Submit and File GSTR-3B

1. Once payment is made, click ‘Submit.’
2. Generate a challan if applicable.
3. File the return using DSC (Digital Signature Certificate) or EVC (Electronic Verification Code) based on your preference.

Step 7: Download the Acknowledgment

After successful submission, download the acknowledgment for your records.

Late Fees and Penalties for Non-Filing

1. Late Fees:

   • ₹50 per day (₹25 CGST + ₹25 SGST) for regular taxpayers.
   • ₹20 per day for nil returns.

2. Interest on Late Payment:

   • 18% per annum on outstanding tax liability.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Incorrect ITC Claims: Ensure accurate data to avoid penalties.
2. Missing Deadlines: File on or before the due date to avoid late fees.
3. Mismatched Data: Cross-check sales data with invoices before submission.
4. Wrong Tax Liability Payment: Double-check liability calculations to avoid errors.

Benefits of Filing GSTR-3B Timely

1. Avoid penalties and maintain a good compliance record.
2. Seamless claim of ITC.
3. Reduces the risk of legal notices or audits.

Conclusion

Filing GSTR-3B accurately and on time is crucial for GST compliance. Following this guide ensures a smooth and error-free process. Stay updated on GST rules and use the available IT tools to simplify the task.