Implementation of Mandatory HSN Codes in GSTR-1 & GSTR-1A

What You Need to Know

From January 2025, GSTN started phasing in the implementation of mandatory HSN codes in Table 12 of both GSTR 1 and GSTR 1A. It is a step based on the correct reporting of tax that has minimal human errors and simplifies compliance for businesses across the nation.

Below is a blog that has broken down what HSN codes are, change that has been introduced in Phase III, and compliance steps that need to be followed by businesses in India.

What Are HSN Codes and Why Are They Important?

It is, in fact the Harmonized System of Nomenclature, or HSN-an internationally accepted classification of goods and services. It classifies products or services with a unique numerical code, thereby standardizing trade and tax systems.

HSN is important for Goods and Services Tax in India in the following manners:

The implementation of HSN codes must be done correctly, and GST registered entities should cover it.

Phase III Implementation: Key Changes

GSTN has brought phase III in the process of reporting of HSN Codes in GSTR -1 and GSTR-1A. Here are the critical changes in the same:

  1. Segmentation of Table 12
    • Table 12 divided into two heads:
      • B2B Supplies: Business-to-business.
      • B2C Supplies: Sales to consumers.
    • Separation gives clear clarity and easy reporting of supplies.
  2. Validations Rules of Supplies and Value of Taxation
    • These supplies and taxation reported values have the new validations developed which cross-matching will happen on this reported value of supplies.
    • The business must complete the submission during this time period, so the rule will initially serve as a warning due to the mismatching.
  3. Features associated with the upgraded user
    • Download HSN Code List now with a new button whereby taxpayers can download the latest HSN and SAC codes along with descriptions in the Excel format.
    • My Master now facilitates search on product descriptions, making it easy to decide which HSN codes to use.

Change in Detail

  1. Verification for B2B Supplies
    • Verification rules will be applicable on tables like:
      • 4A, 4B, 6B and 6C for registered recipient.
      • 9A, 9B, and 15A for Exports or to registered recipient. 
    • This verification is an adjustment of tax values with correct tax amount.
  2. Verification in B2C Supplies
    • We will verify the non-registered recipient on the table such as.
      • 5A, 6A, 7A, and 7B. Domestic Supplies for non-registered recipient.
      • 9A (Ex) and 10 or 15 for unregistered recipient.

Addressing Amendments

If they conduct a revaluation, they will compare it based on differential value to eliminate the reuse of similar data.

Business Implication

Phases III Changes to GST registered will have more substantial effects for tax payers as follows -What Businesses should know:

Benefits of the new system
Challenges to be Overcome

Steps to comply with Phase III

To align the business to the new needs and ensure compliance, the businesses need to do:

  1. Study the Advisory
    • Read the official advisory given by GSTN in detail and understand what is changed and its implications.
    • The complete guidance is available on the GST portal that can be referred to.
  2. Accounting System
    • Check whether your accounting and billing software has the facility of dropping down the codes of HSN.
    • If yes then collaborate with the software vendor also to make the changes
  3. Train Your Employee
    • Train those employees who are handling GST return, which will file returns along with new updations.
    • Completely educate them about the drooping system as well as newly implemented validation rule and all change
  4. Validation Warnings Monitoring
    • Develop a procedure in order to trace the validation warnings that are arising while filing of returns.
    • Clear up the mismatches at once so no further penalties should arise.

FAQs on HSN Code Implementation

Q1: Will the validation warnings prevent the returns from being filed?

No, in the initial days, the validation warnings will not stop the filing of returns. However, the business needs to correct the warnings so as not to incur improper compliance in the future.

Q2: How can I get the new list of HSN codes?

You can download the latest HSN and SAC codes from the GST portal by clicking on the "Download HSN Code List" button on Table 12.

Q3: Is the drop-down selection compulsory for all taxpayers?

No, HSN code entry cannot be done manually. All the taxpayers must choose the appropriate HSN codes available in the list.

Why Compliances Are Important

In case of non-compliance with the latest rule, among other issues, the following may be faced:

Companies can avoid such issues and maintain smooth compliance with GST regulations by raising awareness and taking proactive measures.

Conclusion
The introduction of HSN codes in GSTR-1 and GSTR-1A in Phase III is a major step toward the betterment of GST compliance and accuracy. Mandatory drop-down selection, validation rules, and enhanced features make the process easy for businesses and promote transparency in taxation.
For that, companies should update their systems, train the teams, and be vigilant for validation warnings. Need help?
Contact Book My Accountant for expert assistance with GST compliance, tax planning, and more. Together, let's simplify your tax journey!

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TDS on Metal Scrap under GST: A Complete Guide

The Indian government has brought into effect new TDS provisions under the framework of Goods and Services Tax-specifically targeting all transactions in the form of metal scrap. With effect from 10 October 2024, these rules are aimed at improving tax compliance and transparency in the scrap materials sector. Let us dive into this and see what it will mean for the businesses buying and selling metal scrap.

What is TDS in GST for Metal Scrap?

TDS is a mechanism where tax is deducted at source at the time of making payment to the seller. Based on the latest GST rules, businesses, whose subject of business is procurement of metal scrap, are dutifully liable to deduct TDS at the time of entering into qualifying transactions.

And the transactions which attract TDS are under Chapter 72 to Chapter 81 of the Customs Tariff Act 1975, which comprises of:

Important Provisions of the TDS Rule

TDS shall apply on metal scrap under GST if the aggregate value of supplies exceeds ₹2,50,000 per transaction. The taxable value of scrap material will be deducted for deduction, and not the total invoice value.

Rate of deduction is provided as 2%, split as below:

Who must deduct TDS?

The Ministry of Finance issued Notification No. 25/2024-Central Tax on October 9, 2024, amending the earlier Notification No. 50/2018-Central Tax to clarify the Tax Deduction at Source (TDS) provisions under Section 51 of the CGST Act, 2017. Section 51 of the CGST Act 2017 deals with the mechanism of Tax Deduction at Source (TDS).

TDS provisions under Section 51 of the CGST Act shall not apply to the supply of goods or services between certain categories of persons specified in clauses (a), (b), (c), and (d) of sub-section (1) of Section 51 except for those specified in clause (d).

Process for becoming compliant

If you are a buyer dealing with metals scrap, here is what you need to do to become compliant with the new GST rules:

Obtain a Separate GST Registration

The buying party would be required to apply for a separate GST registration under REG-07 in order to start deducting TDS. Subsequently, the buyer can claim TDS on eligible transactions with which they will have to file a return month under Form GSTR-7. Simultaneously, the system generates a certificate of TDS, just like Form 16A under the Income Tax Act, after filing GSTR-7.

File Monthly Returns

The buyers who deduct TDS are liable to file GSTR-7 for the month. The return should be filed by the 10th of the next month where a payment liability will arise along with the return filing. This return should state the amount of TDS deducted.

Provide TDS Certificates

Once the return is filed by the purchaser, he shall issue the TDS certificate, GSTR-7A, to the supplier. Therefore, he would get the TDS credit to his ledger of cash at the end of every month.

TDS not Applicable in Respect of Metal Scrap

It is another important aspect that TDS under GST is not levied upon importing the metallic scraps. It does not draw any TDS deduction under such rules if the buyer imports scraps from abroad.

Conclusion

The introduction of TDS on metal scrap under the GST is perhaps a landmark to ensure better tax compliance in the industry. With the above move, the government has consequently mandated 2% TDS on all transactions, with an element of transparency and accountability that can be availed by the suppliers in due time.

Ensure your business is GST compliant with these new provisions by registering for GST TDS and the timely returns filing, contact Book My Accountant today for help with GST registration, TDS filing, and much more in accounting.

Strengthening the GST System: India's Second All-India Drive Against Fake GST Registrations

India’s GST is a key part of the tax system, aiming to unify indirect taxes effectively. However, some of the challenges have been fraudulent activities especially the abuse of GST registration. CBIC launched a drive to combat fake GST registrations, protect revenue, and fortify the GST system.

Identifying Fake GST Registrations

There are also fake GST registrations which are very dangerous since they affect the credibility of the GST system. The dishonest players get fake GST Identification Numbers (GSTINs) to commit tax fraud and falsely claim input tax credit. These actions impact the revenue and at the same time burden the honest taxpayers.

The CBIC, in consultation with the Directorate General of Analytics and Risk Management (DGARM), has a comprehensive strategy in place to track down and neutralize these fake GSTINs. New age data analytics and risk parameters identify suspicious GST numbers sent to tax departments for confirmation.

The Role of the GST Portal

The GST portal is very useful in registration as well as the monitoring of the whole process. You can use this channel to manage GST registration, check your application status, and access necessary tax details. Many fake registrations have been reported, resulting in strict verification procedures on the GST website. Tax officers are using the GST portal during this drive to verify GST numbers and registration compliance of genuine businesses.

Actions Against Fraudulent GSTINs

When fake GST registrations are identified, appropriate action is taken against them. Entities can be suspended or cancelled in their GST registration by the tax authorities if they are found to be committing fraud. They can suspend the input tax credit and reclaim any erroneously availed credit as well. Anyone who tries to misuse the GST system is immediately stopped.

Another essential part of this drive is the crackdown on the e-way bill system. Inter-state transportation requires the generation of the e-way bill through the GST portal, which is mandatory. From the analysis of e-way bills, tax authorities can also get additional information and prevent the abuse of GST registration.

Monitoring and Reporting

This drive must therefore have a sound monitoring and reporting system that can enhance its success. The GST Council Secretariat compiles weekly reports on identified tax evasion cases and activities leading to recoveries. An approach like this allows you to track progress and keep the drive from being deflected.

Special GST Drive Guidelines

Tax officers will visit registered businesses from August 16 to October 31, 2024, as part of a GST drive. Businesses are advised to take the following actions to ensure compliance:

  • Disclose all additional places of business.
  • Keep proper and updated records of all transactions, including purchase and sale invoices, consignment notes, and e-way bills.
  • Reconcile stock and cash balances regularly.
  • Maintain all bill books, vouchers, and documents in an organized manner.
  • Prominently display the GST registration certificate at every place of business, including godowns.
  • Complete bank authentication and KYC verification on the GST portal.
  • Place signboards properly at every location.

Conclusion

The second All-India drive against fake GST registrations is evidence of the Indian government’s seriousness towards maintaining a proper tax regime. This initiative proposes the use of the GST portal in protecting government revenue and the integrity of the GST system through data analytics. The government has called on business organizations to observe the GST laws by registering their GST number and other tax details. This drive is not merely to punish the offenders but also to build confidence in the Indian taxation system.

At Book My Accountant (BMA), we understand the complexities of the GST system and the importance of compliance. Experienced professionals on our team provide comprehensive GST consultancy services, ensuring that your business stays compliant with all regulations. From GST registration to ongoing compliance checks, BMA is your trusted partner in navigating the intricacies of the Indian tax system. Contact us today to learn how we can support your business in this crucial All-India drive against fake GST registrations.