CBIC Circular No. 246/03/2025-GST on Late Fee for GSTR-9 and GSTR-9C Filing
1. Background and Purpose The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) issued this circular to clarify the applicability of late fees under Section 47 of the CGST Act, 2017 for the delay in furnishing FORM GSTR-9 (Annual Return) and FORM GSTR-9C (Reconciliation Statement). This clarification was issued in response to representations seeking confirmation on whether a separate late fee is applicable when GSTR-9C is filed late but after GSTR-9. 2. Key Clarifications on Late Fees Legal Provisions (Before and After 01.08.2021) Before 01.08.2021: Section 44(2) of the CGST Act required registered persons to submit audited annual accounts and a reconciliation statement (GSTR-9C) along with their annual return (GSTR-9). After 01.08.2021: The mandatory audit requirement was removed, and taxpayers with an aggregate turnover exceeding ₹5 crore must submit a self-certified GSTR-9C along with GSTR-9.…