GSTR-1A FAQ: Key Changes and Updates from August 2024

1. What is the GSTR-1A form?

Answer : GSTR-1A is a GST return form that allows taxpayers to make amendments to their previously filed GSTR-1. It was reintroduced on July 10, 2024, following its suspension in 2017. This form helps in updating sales invoices and correcting discrepancies before filing the GSTR-3B, With effect from 1st day of August, 2024

2. Why was GSTR-1A reintroduced in 2024?

Answer : The GSTR-1A form has been reintroduced to help businesses correct mistakes in their GSTR-1 returns and ensure accurate reporting in GSTR-3B. Announced in CBIC Notification No.12/2024 on July 10, 2024, this update allows businesses to fix errors and resolve differences between their GSTR-1 and the auto-generated GSTR-2B. This helps keep the reporting of sales accurate and up-to-date.

3. How does GSTR-1A differ from GSTR-1?

Answer : GSTR-1 is a return that reports all outward supplies (sales) for a specific tax period. GSTR-1A, on the other hand, is used specifically for making amendments to the GSTR-1 details. It contains only the changes and corrections to the previously filed GSTR-1.

4. How does the GSTR-1A form work?

Answer : The GSTR-1A form auto-populates with data from GSTR-2B. Taxpayers can review this data, make necessary corrections, and update their GSTR-1 return to reflect accurate outward supply details.

For Example : if a seller, Vijay Stationery, incorrectly reported a sale of Rs. 500 as Rs. 50 in his GSTR-1, the GSTR-2B of the buyer, Ajay, will reflect this incorrect amount. Vijay can correct this in GSTR-1A to update the sale amount to Rs. 500. This correction will then update Ajay’s GSTR-2B and Vijay’s GSTR-3B accordingly.

5. Who needs to file the GSTR-1A form?

Answer : Businesses that have discrepancies between their GSTR-1 and the GSTR-2B data will need to use the GSTR-1A form to correct and reconcile these differences.

6. When should GSTR-1A be filed?

Answer : GSTR-1A should be filed after submitting the GSTR-1 for the relevant tax period but before filing the GSTR-3B. Specific deadlines for GSTR-1A filing will be provided in official notifications no. 12/2024 .

7. What are the key sections of the GSTR-1A form?

Answer : The GSTR-1A form is divided into several key sections, including:

– GSTIN and Taxpayer Details: Information about the taxpayer and their GST Identification Number (GSTIN).

– Taxable Outward Supplies to Registered Persons: Details of outward supplies made to registered persons that need to be corrected.

– Inter-State Supplies to Unregistered Persons: Information on inter-state supplies to unregistered persons that require amendments.

– Zero-Rated and Deemed Exports: Updates related to zero-rated supplies and deemed exports.

– Amendments to Taxable Outward Supplies: Corrections to previously reported sales, including adjustments for debit and credit notes.

– Consolidated Advances Received: Adjustments for advances received and their reporting.

– HSN-Wise Summary of Outward Supplies: Summary of outward supplies classified by HSN codes with any necessary changes.

– Documents Issued During the Tax Period: Updates on various documents issued, such as invoices and debit/credit notes.

– Details of Supplies Made Through E-Commerce Operators: Information on supplies made through e-commerce platforms, including any required amendments.

8. How can I access the GSTR-1A form?

Answer: The GSTR-1A form can be accessed on the GST portal under the returns section. Login to the portal with your credentials, navigate to the relevant form section, and select GSTR-1A.

9.What should I do if I find discrepancies in GSTR-1A?

Answer: Review the discrepancies, make the necessary corrections, and update your GSTR-1 accordingly. Ensure all amendments are accurately reflected to avoid further issues.

10. How should changes in outward supplies be reported in GSTR-1A?

Answer: Changes in outward supplies should be reported in their respective tables based on the type of supply—normal sales, reverse charge, inter-state supplies, etc. Specific amendments to invoice details and corrections to debit and credit notes should also be reported.

11. What is the due date for filing the GSTR-1A form?

Answer: The GSTR-1A form doesn’t have a specific due date. It can be filed anytime before submitting the GSTR-3B for that tax period.

12. Can I amend the GSTR-1A form after submission?

Answer: Yes, if you need to make further corrections after the initial submission, you can amend the GSTR-1A form within the timelines specified by the GST Council.

13.What is the importance of Table 11 in GSTR-1A?

Answer: Table 11 captures the consolidated statement of advances received or adjusted in the current tax period. It includes adjustments for advances received earlier and details on refunds if any.

14. How will GSTR-1A affect my GSTR-3B filing?

Answer: Under GST Notice 12/2024, GSTR-1A requires reconciliation with GSTR-3B. Ensure that the details in GSTR-1A match your GSTR-3B to avoid discrepancies in input tax credit claims and potential penalties.

15. What happens if I do not file the GSTR-1A form?

Answer: Failure to file the GSTR-1A form when discrepancies exist can result in mismatches between your returns, potential notices from the GST department, and penalties for non-compliance.

16. Are there any penalties for incorrect details in GSTR-1A?

Answer: Incorrect details or failure to amend discrepancies properly in GSTR-1A can result in mismatches between GSTR-1 and GSTR-3B, leading to potential penalties and notices from the GST authorities.

17. Are there any penalties for errors in GSTR-1A?

Answer: Penalties for errors or discrepancies in GSTR-1A can be imposed as per GST laws. Ensure accuracy to avoid penalties and interest for non-compliance.

18. How can I access the GSTR-1A form?

Answer: The GSTR-1A form can be accessed and filed on the GST portal. Log in with your credentials, navigate to the returns section, and select GSTR-1A to begin the filing process.

19. Where can I find the guidelines for filling out the GSTR-1A form?

Answer: Detailed guidelines and instructions are available on the GST portal and in official notifications no. 12/2024 from the GST Council. Review these documents to ensure proper completion of the form.

20. What should I do if I face technical issues with the GSTR-1A form?

Answer: For technical issues, contact the GST helpdesk through the GST portal or seek assistance from your tax advisor. Ensure to follow up on any technical glitches to avoid delays in compliance.

21. How do the recent updates affect my business operations?

Answer: The updates ensure that any discrepancies in outward supplies are corrected before finalising GSTR-3B, improving the accuracy of GST returns. Businesses need to adhere to these updates to avoid compliance issues and penalties.