The Goods and Services Tax (GST) system in India requires businesses to file regular returns to report their tax liability and transactions. Depending on turnover and eligibility, businesses can opt for monthly or quarterly GST return filing. Understanding the difference between monthly and quarterly gst return, due dates, filing process, and compliance requirements helps taxpayers avoid penalties and ensures smooth operations.
This guide explains monthly and quarterly GST returns, due dates, filing steps, and compliance tips to help businesses stay GST-compliant.
Types of GST Returns: Monthly vs. Quarterly
GST returns are classified based on taxpayer category, turnover, and filing frequency.
1. Monthly GST Returns
✔ Applicable for businesses with annual turnover above ₹5 crore.
✔ Requires monthly filing of GSTR-1 and GSTR-3B.
✔ Suitable for businesses with high transaction volume.
✔ Ensures faster Input Tax Credit (ITC) claims and smooth compliance.
2. Quarterly GST Returns (QRMP Scheme)
✔ Available for small businesses with annual turnover up to ₹5 crore.
✔ Taxpayers file GSTR-3B quarterly but pay tax monthly.
✔ Option to file GSTR-1 monthly or quarterly.
✔ Reduces compliance burden for MSMEs and small businesses.
GST Return Filing: Due Dates & Forms
Below is a list of key GST returns, their applicability, and due dates.
| GST Return Type | Applicable To | Filing Frequency | Due Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| GSTR-1 | Regular taxpayers | Monthly/Quarterly | 11th of the following month (monthly) / 13th of the following quarter (quarterly) |
| GSTR-3B | Regular taxpayers | Table Monthly/Quarterly | 20th of the following month (monthly) / 22nd or 24th of the following quarter (quarterly) |
| GSTR-4 | Composition scheme taxpayers | Annually | Table Data30th April of the next financial year |
| GSTR-5 | Non-resident taxpayers | Monthly | 20th of the following month |
| GSTR-6 | Input Service Distributors (ISD) | Monthly | 13th of the following month |
| GSTR-7 | TDS deductors under GST | Monthly | 10th of the following month |
| GSTR-8 | E-commerce operators | E-commerce operatorscc | 10th of the following month |
| GSTR-9 | Regular taxpayers (Annual Return) | Annually | 31st December of the next financial year |
| GSTR-9C | Taxpayers with turnover above ₹5 crore (Audit Report) | Annually | 31st December of the next financial year |
✔ Timely filing ensures ITC claims and prevents penalties.
✔ Late filing attracts penalties and interest under GST laws.
Step-by-Step Guide to File Monthly & Quarterly GST Returns
1. Filing GSTR-1 (Sales Return)
✔ Login to GST Portal (www.gst.gov.in).
✔ Go to ‘Returns Dashboard’ → Select GSTR-1.
✔ Enter invoice-wise details of outward supplies (sales).
✔ Validate data and submit using OTP/Digital Signature.
✔ Due Date: 11th of next month (monthly) / 13th of next quarter (quarterly).
2. Filing GSTR-3B (Summary Tax Return)
✔ Go to ‘Returns Dashboard’ → Select GSTR-3B.
✔ Enter details of sales, purchases, and ITC claims.
✔ Compute net tax liability and pay tax via challan.
✔ Submit and verify using EVC or DSC.
✔ Due Date: 20th of next month (monthly) / 22nd or 24th of next quarter (quarterly).
3. Filing Quarterly Returns Under QRMP Scheme
✔ GSTR-1: Choose monthly or quarterly filing option in the GST portal.
✔ GSTR-3B: File quarterly but pay tax monthly using Fixed Sum Method (FSM) or Self-Assessment Method (SAM).
✔ ITC Claims: Available once invoices are uploaded by suppliers.
Late Fees & Penalties for Non-Filing of GST Returns
Late filing of monthly or quarterly GST returns attracts penalties under Section 47 of CGST Act.
1. Late Fees for GSTR-1 & GSTR-3B
| Return Type | Late Fee Per Day | Maximum Late Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Nil GSTR-3B | ₹10 (₹5 CGST + ₹5 SGST) | ₹500 (₹250 CGST + ₹250 SGST) |
| GSTR-3B with Tax Liability | ₹50 (₹25 CGST + ₹25 SGST) | No Maximum Limit |
| GSTR-1 | ₹50 (₹25 CGST + ₹25 SGST) | No Maximum Limit |
2. Interest on Late Payment of Tax
✔ 18% per annum on tax liability if payment is delayed.
✔ Calculated on the outstanding tax amount from the due date till payment.
✔ Example: If ₹1,00,000 tax is due and delayed for 30 days, interest = ₹1,479.
Benefits of Filing Monthly & Quarterly GST Returns on Time
✔ Avoids Late Fees & Penalties – Prevents unnecessary financial burden.
✔ Ensures Input Tax Credit (ITC) Claims – Timely filing allows ITC reconciliation.
✔ Prevents GSTIN Suspension – Non-filing for consecutive months can lead to suspension.
✔ Helps in Business Loan Approvals – Banks consider GST compliance records.
✔ Smooth Business Operations – Ensures seamless transactions with suppliers and buyers.
How to Choose Between Monthly & Quarterly GST Filing?
| Criteria | Monthly Filing | Quarterly Filing (QRMP Scheme) |
|---|---|---|
| Eligibility | Turnover above ₹5 crore | Turnover up to ₹5 crore |
| Frequency | Monthly GSTR-1 & GSTR-3B | Quarterly GSTR-1 & GSTR-3B (monthly tax payment) |
| Compliance Burden | Higher | Lower |
| ITC Claims Speed | Faster | Delayed due to quarterly reporting |
| Tax Payment Mode | Monthly | Fixed Sum Method (FSM) or Self-Assessment Method (SAM) |
✔ Choose based on turnover, ITC requirements, and compliance ease.
Conclusion
Understanding monthly and quarterly GST returns is crucial for tax compliance and avoiding penalties. Businesses should ensure timely filing of GSTR-1 and GSTR-3B, choose the appropriate return filing frequency, and maintain proper records to claim ITC and avoid legal issues.
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