Ten Common GST Red Flags That Trigger Notices
Over the last year, the GST notices have been increasing not just because of fraud but because of small errors flagged by the system using Artificial Intelligence. With the help of Adata analytics, the GST authorities are able to identify GST non-compliance. Additionally, the CBIC has also introduced a framework that allows the GST department to instantly detect the mismatches. Usually, businesses face scrutiny due to common filing mistakes and the system flags such returns. Understanding these top 10 red flags helps avoid penalties, interest, and any legal trouble.
Top Ten GST Red Flags
Here are the most common GST errors that are easily flagged by the system:
- ITC Claimed, But Supplier Failed to File GSTR-1: Claiming the Input Tax Credit (ITC) for the purchases when your supplier has not filed their return (GSTR-1) flags the GST return.
- GSTR-1 and GSTR-3B Mismatch: The difference between the outward supplies reported in GSTR-1 and the tax liability paid through GSTR-3B can lead to a tax notice.
- Sudden Increase or Decrease in Sales or Tax Liability: If there is a sudden increase or drop in the turnover or the tax liability without any valid reason, it can attract scrutiny.
- Excess ITC Compared to Turnover: The GST department may raise suspicion if you are claiming excess ITC, as compared to the declared turnover.
- ITC Claim on Blocked Credits: Taxpayers cannot claim ITC on blocked or ineligible ITC under section 17(5) of the Income Tax Act.
- Filing Nil Returns Despite Active E-Way Bills: Filing a NIL return while your e-way bills show business activity can be one of the major red flags.
- Frequent Late Filing: Non-filing or delayed filing of GST returns can reflect poor compliance and can result in the suspension of your GSTIN.
- E-Way Bills Not Matching Declared Turnover: Mismatch between e-way bill data and turnover declared in GST returns is a strong red flag.
- High Refund Claims Without Supporting Documents: Large refund claims, without proper supporting documentation, can attract scrutiny.
- Large Value Invoices From Fake Suppliers: High-value Invoices issued by non-compliant or suspicious suppliers often attract scrutiny.
Why Ignoring These Red Flags Can Be Costly?
If you ignore these common red flags and continue to file your return, you may face the following consequences:
- ITC Getting Blocked: The GST authorities can block your input tax credit, raising costs as you will be paying taxes without offset.
- Tax Recovery Action: The GST authorities take appropriate actions under the GST Act to recover the unpaid tax along with interest and penalties.
- Registration Cancellation: Repeated issues can result in the suspension of GSTIN, disrupting business.
How to Avoid GST Red Flags?
Here are a few checks that you must do to ensure accurate GST return filings:
- Reconcile GSTR-1, GSTR-3B and GSTR-3B carefully.
- Check and match all data before filing each return.
- Use correct HSN/SAC codes on every sale
- Respond to any notices quickly with supporting documents.
- Avoid last-minute GST filings.
