GST Network launches offline tool for quarterly return filing

NEW DELHI: Tax payers who have opted for the composition scheme under the goods and services tax (GST) can now use an offline tool for the filing of quarterly returns. GST Network on Friday launched the offline tool for preparation of GSTR-4. Taxpayers and tax consultants can download the tool from the GST portal, the GSTN said in a statement on Friday.

“GSTR-4 return can be prepared only using the offline tool. This has been done to facilitate small businesses who can prepare the same on their own computers as per their convenience. Since they will be working offline, they do not need to be connected to the Internet,” said GSTN CEO Prakash Kumar.
The offline tool will also allow taxpayers check final payable amount and save the return for future use.

They can, then, create the return file on the portal and upload it using the Internet. Nearly 15 lakh businesses opted for composition scheme, which allows them to pay taxes at a concessional rate and makes compliance easy, under the GST which was rolled out from July 1.

The scheme is optional under which manufacturers other than those of ice cream, pan masala and tobacco products have to pay a two per cent tax on their annual turnover. The tax rate is five per cent for restaurant services and 1 per cent for traders. There are over one crore registered businesses under the GST, which has amalgamated over a dozen taxes to make India into a single market for a seamless flow of goods and services.