GST Compliance | TINs | Annual Return Fee Waiver
CBIC Introduces Temporary GST IDs and Late Fee Relief for Businesses

The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) has rolled out key updates to India’s GST framework, aiming to simplify tax compliance, particularly for businesses not liable for mandatory registration. The highlights include the introduction of Temporary Identification Numbers (TINs) and a waiver of excess late fees for annual return filings from FY 2017–18 to FY 2022–23.

🔹 Temporary Identification Numbers (TINs) for Unregistered Entities

• Tax officers can now issue TINs to entities without mandatory GST registration, allowing them to make payments under specific conditions.
• This is based on provisions outlined in Part B of FORM GST REG-12.
• It facilitates voluntary compliance for entities otherwise outside the GST threshold.

🔹 Threshold Limits for GST Registration

• ₹40 lakh for manufacturing sector
• ₹20 lakh for services sector
• Special category states have varied thresholds:
  • Jammu & Kashmir: ₹40 lakh (goods)
  • Puducherry: ₹20 lakh (goods)

🔹 Waiver of Late Fees for Annual Returns

• Excess late fees for Form GSTR-9C (Annual Reconciliation Statement) will be waived for FY 2017–18 to 2022–23.
• Valid only if returns are filed on or before March 31, 2025.
• No refunds will be issued for already-paid fees.

🔹 Key Filing Requirements

• Form GSTR-9: Mandatory for businesses with turnover above ₹2 crore
• Form GSTR-9C: Required for those above ₹5 crore
• Deadline for both: December 31 of the following financial year

🔹 Compliance Boost for MSMEs

These initiatives are designed to:

• Lower compliance barriers
• Promote voluntary participation
• Encourage timely return filing
• Streamline India’s indirect tax ecosystem