Filing your GST returns online doesn’t have to be confusing. If you’re a business owner or a taxpayer registered under GST, knowing how to file your returns correctly is essential for staying compliant and avoiding penalties.
This easy-to-understand guide will walk you through the entire GST return filing process on the GST Portal – step by step.
📌 What You Need Before Filing
Before you get started, keep the following ready:
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Your GST Portal login credentials (GSTIN, username, password)
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All invoices for sales and purchases during the return period
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Access to DSC (Digital Signature Certificate) or OTP/EVC for verification
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Bank details, if you’re expecting a refund
🧾 Step-by-Step Process to File GST Returns Online
Step 1: Visit the GST Portal
Go to the official website: https://www.gst.gov.in
Step 2: Login to Your Account
Use your GSTIN, username, and password to log in. Complete the CAPTCHA and hit Login.
Step 3: Access the Returns Dashboard
Click on Services > Returns > Returns Dashboard.
Then choose your Financial Year and Return Filing Period, and click Search.
Step 4: Choose the Return Form
You will now see the list of return forms applicable to your business. These may include:
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GSTR-1 – for outward supplies
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GSTR-2A / GSTR-2B – auto-generated inward supply data
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GSTR-3B – summary return of tax liability and ITC
Click on the relevant form and choose Prepare Online.
Step 5: Fill in Return Details
Enter the required data such as:
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Sales and outward supply details
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Purchase and inward supply details
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Input Tax Credit (ITC) claimed
Click Save after entering all information.
Step 6: Submit the Return
After saving, click Submit.
The return status will change to “Submitted” once the portal processes the data.
Step 7: Pay Your GST Liability
Click Payment of Tax.
You’ll see your available cash and credit balances.
Use the “Offset Liability” option to use your ITC and pay the remaining amount in cash, if required.
Step 8: File the Return
Tick the declaration checkbox, select the authorized signatory, and click either:
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File with DSC, or
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File with EVC
Once done, your return is officially filed.
Step 9: Download the Acknowledgment
After filing, download the acknowledgment receipt from the dashboard.
Keep this safe for your records.
📘 Types of GST Return Forms
Depending on your business type and registration, you may need to file different forms. Here’s a quick overview:
| Form | Who Files It | Frequency | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| GSTR-1 | Regular taxpayers | Monthly/Quarterly | Sales/outward supply data |
| GSTR-2A & 2B | Auto-generated | Monthly | Inward purchases and ITC details |
| GSTR-3B | Regular taxpayers | Monthly/Quarterly | Summary of sales, ITC, and tax payable |
| GSTR-4 | Composition scheme | Annually | Sales, ITC, and tax under composition |
| GSTR-9 | Regular taxpayers | Annually | Annual return summary |
| GSTR-9C | Businesses > ₹5 Cr | Annually | Reconciliation of GSTR-9 and accounts |
| GSTR-10 | On cancellation | One-time | Final return after GST cancellation |
| GSTR-11 | UIN holders | Monthly | Inward supplies and refund claims |
⚠️ Common GST Filing Mistakes to Avoid
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Missing deadlines can lead to late fees and interest.
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Incorrect invoice data may trigger notices.
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Failing to match purchase data with GSTR-2B can reduce ITC.
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Not using the correct HSN/SAC codes can delay processing.
❓ FAQs on GST Return Filing
1. Can I revise a GST return?
No, GST returns cannot be revised once filed.
If there’s an error, it must be corrected in the next return period.
2. What if I don’t have any sales for the month?
You still need to file a NIL return to avoid penalties.
3. What is the deadline for filing GSTR-3B?
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20th of every month for monthly filers
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22nd or 24th for quarterly filers under QRMP (based on state)
4. Is offline filing available?
No, GST returns are filed online. However, you can prepare returns offline using the JSON tool and then upload them.
5. Can I file GST myself?
Yes. As long as you have the necessary login credentials and invoice data, you can follow the steps above to file your GST returns on your own.
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