An In-Depth Guide to GSTR-10 Return Filing
All you need to know about GSTR-10, from filing deadlines to crucial compliance requirements.
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Created: 11th July, 2025 1:44 AM, last update:11th July, 2025 1:44 AM
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Introduction to GSTR-10
GSTR-10 is the official return form for registered taxable individuals who have chosen to cancel their GST registration. This document acts as a final return that must be submitted within a specified timeframe. Grasping the complexities of GSTR-10 is crucial for compliance and to prevent penalties. This article aims to highlight the essential components of GSTR-10, including its applicability, deadlines, required information, and possible penalties for late submission.
What is GSTR-10?
GSTR-10 is a final return that must be filed by any taxable person whose GST registration has been canceled. This filing serves as a formal conclusion of their tax obligations under GST law and must comply with specific guidelines.
GSTR-10 Due Date: When Should You Submit?
The GSTR-10 return must be filed within three months following the cancellation of GST registration or from the date the cancellation order is issued, whichever is later. For instance, if registration is canceled on January 1, 2025, and the cancellation order is received on January 5, 2025, the GSTR-10 return must be submitted by April 5, 2025.
Who Needs to File GSTR-10?
Only individuals whose GST registration has been officially canceled or surrendered are required to file GSTR-10. This requirement does not apply to:
- Input Service Distributors (ISDs)
- Taxpayers under the Composition Scheme
- Non-Resident Taxable Persons (NRTPs)
- Individuals required to deduct TDS under Section 51 of the CGST Act
- Entities obligated to collect TCS under Section 52 of the CGST Act
Essential Information Required in GSTR-10
The GSTR-10 form consists of 11 sections, with several fields pre-filled upon logging into the system. The auto-populated sections include:
- GSTIN
- Legal Name of the Business
- Trade Name
- Correspondence Address
Additional mandatory fields that require manual input include: 5. Effective Date of Cancellation: The date when GST registration was canceled. 6. Cancellation Order Reference Number: The unique identifier provided at cancellation. 7. Date of Cancellation Order: The date the order was officially issued. 8. Closing Stock Particulars: Details regarding the inventory held at cancellation, including:
- Inputs with invoices
- Semi-finished or finished goods with invoices
- Capital goods or machinery
- Inputs without invoices
- Tax Payable and Paid: Information on ITC reversal and taxes due.
- Interest and Late Fees: Breakdown of interest and any late fees applicable.
- Verification: Confirmation of the accuracy of the provided details.
After completing the form, the taxpayer must digitally sign using either a digital signature certificate (DSC) or an Aadhaar-based signature verification.
Important Considerations When Declaring Stock
When stock is declared without invoices, the estimated market value must be certified by a qualified chartered accountant or cost accountant and included in the GSTR-10 submission. For capital goods, the valuation is calculated as the invoice value minus 1/60th for every month or part thereof, based on a standard useful life of five years.
Consequences of Late GSTR-10 Filing
Failing to file GSTR-10 by the due date will result in a formal notice to the registered taxpayer, allowing 15 days to submit the return along with all necessary documents. Non-compliance could lead to the tax authority issuing a final order for cancellation, including taxes owed plus any applicable interest or penalties.
Final Returns vs. Annual Returns
It's crucial to distinguish between a final return and an annual return. An annual return, filed under Form GSTR-9, is mandatory for every registered taxpayer once a year. In contrast, a final return is specifically for individuals whose GST registration has been canceled or surrendered, filed using GSTR-10.
For more insights and detailed guidance on filing GSTR-10, consider exploring resources that explain how to accurately complete the return on the GST portal or through the GST offline tool.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of filing GSTR-10?
GSTR-10 serves as a final return for taxable individuals who have canceled their GST registration. Filing this form is essential as it signifies the conclusion of your tax obligations under GST law. It's a way for taxpayers to report any remaining tax liabilities and ensure that all inventory and input tax credits (ITC) are accounted for before officially ceasing operations. By completing GSTR-10, individuals can avoid penalties and ensure compliance with tax regulations, providing a clear record of their final tax status.
When is the deadline for submitting GSTR-10?
The GSTR-10 return must be filed within three months of your GST registration cancellation or from the date you receive the cancellation order, whichever is later. For example, if your registration was canceled on January 1, 2025, and you received the cancellation order on January 5, 2025, your GSTR-10 must be submitted by April 5, 2025. It's crucial to meet this deadline to avoid late fees and potential penalties.
Who is required to file GSTR-10?
GSTR-10 must be filed by individuals whose GST registration has been officially canceled or surrendered. It's important to note that certain categories of taxpayers, such as Input Service Distributors, those under the Composition Scheme, Non-Resident Taxable Persons, and individuals required to deduct TDS or collect TCS, are exempt from filing this return. If you're unsure whether you need to file, it's best to consult with a tax professional.
What information do I need to include in my GSTR-10 submission?
When filling out GSTR-10, you'll need to provide several important details. This includes your GSTIN, legal business name, the effective date of cancellation, and the cancellation order reference number. You'll also need to declare your closing stock particulars, detailing any inputs, finished goods, or capital goods you have at the time of cancellation. Additionally, you must report any tax payable and paid, including any interest or late fees. Make sure to verify all information before submitting to avoid complications.
What happens if I file GSTR-10 late?
If you fail to file GSTR-10 by the due date, you will receive a formal notice from the tax authorities, granting you 15 days to submit the return along with any required documents. If you still do not comply, the authorities may issue a final order for cancellation, which could include tax liabilities plus interest and penalties. To prevent these issues, it's crucial to file on time and seek help if you're unsure about the process.
Can I file GSTR-10 without invoices for my stock?
Yes, you can declare stock without invoices in your GSTR-10 filing, but there are specific requirements. The estimated market value of the stock must be certified by a qualified chartered accountant or cost accountant and included in your submission. This valuation is especially important for capital goods, where the calculation is based on the invoice value minus a depreciation factor over its useful life. Without this certification, your filing may not be accepted.
How does GSTR-10 differ from GSTR-9?
GSTR-10 and GSTR-9 serve different purposes under GST regulations. GSTR-10 is a final return specifically for individuals whose GST registration has been canceled or surrendered, marking the end of their tax obligations. In contrast, GSTR-9 is an annual return that every registered taxpayer must file once a year, regardless of their registration status. Understanding these distinctions is vital for compliance and ensuring you file the correct forms at the right times.
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