The Goods and Services Tax Network (GSTN) has issued a reminder for GST-registered taxpayers about the mandatory filing of GSTR-7 returns by December 10, 2024. This filing requirement applies to all taxpayers registered under GST who are liable to deduct Tax Deducted at Source (TDS) as per GST law.

New rules on sequential filing

In an advisory dated December 4, 2024, the GSTN clarified that sequential filing of GSTR-7 is now mandatory.

This change applies to tax periods starting from October 2024.

Sequential filing means that returns must be submitted in chronological order, beginning with October 2024.

Taxpayers who have not deducted TDS in a particular period must file a Nil return for that month to ensure compliance.

Who needs to File GSTR-7?

The GSTR-7 return is required from:

GST-registered persons responsible for deducting TDS under GST.

TDS deduction applies when the value of taxable supply exceeds ₹2.5 lakh.

Taxpayers who registered for TDS under GST in November 2024 are exempted from filing GSTR-7 for October 2024.

To meet the filing requirements, taxpayers should verify deduction records for accuracy before submission.

Clarification on previous FAQs

The advisory addressed queries raised about earlier FAQs, which suggested that sequential filing was not mandatory.

The GSTN clarified that the new rules supersede previous guidance.

Importance of filing GSTR-7

Timely submission of GSTR-7 ensures compliance with GST regulations.

Missing the deadline or filing returns out of order may result in penalties or delays in future filings.