The annual business tax return filing process in India
Who needs to file a business tax return in India
All businesses registered in India are required to file an annual income tax return, regardless of whether or not they have taxable income. This is because the government uses tax returns as a way to track businesses and ensure that they are complying with other regulations.
The only exception to this rule is if your business has an annual turnover of less than INR 5 crore (approximately USD 0.7 million). In this case, you are still required to file a return, but you can do so using the simplified ITR-3 form.
What are the deadlines for filing a business tax return in India
The deadline for filing your business tax return in India is July 31st. If you are filing paper returns, they must be postmarked by this date. If you are filing electronically, the return must be submitted by 11:59 PM on July 31st.
If you miss the deadline, you will be subject to late fees and penalties. The late filing fee is INR 5,000 (approximately USD 75), and the penalty is 1% of your total tax liability per month up to a maximum of 12 months (or 12% of your total tax liability).
In addition, if you have not paid your taxes by the due date (September 15th), you will also be charged interest at the rate of 1% per month on the outstanding amount.
What are the consequences of not filing a business tax return in India
If you do not file your business tax return in India, you may be subject to criminal charges under section 276B of the Income Tax Act 1961. This could result in a jail sentence of up to 7 years and/or a fine.
In addition, if your company is found to have evaded taxes, it may be blacklisted from bidding on government contracts or accessing government loans. This could seriously hamper your ability to do business in India.
It is therefore in your best interests to ensure that you file your return on time and pay any taxes due.
What documents do you need to file your annual business tax return in India
What is a PAN number and how do I get one
Every business entity is required to have a Permanent Account Number (PAN). This is a 10-digit alphanumeric number issued by the Income Tax Department. You can apply for a PAN online on the e-filing portal of the IT Department or through a designated PAN service provider.
What is an ITR form and which one do I need to use
An ITR form is a document used to file your income tax return. The form you need to use depends on your business structure and turnover. For example, if you are a sole proprietor, you will need to use ITR-1, but if you are a partnership firm, you will need to use ITR-3.
Do I need to get my financial statements audited
If your turnover exceeds Rs 1 crore in the previous financial year, you are required to get your financial statements audited by a chartered accountant and submit the audit report along with your tax return.
How to file your annual business tax return in India
What are the benefits of filing your business tax return online in India
There are many benefits of filing your annual business tax return online in India. Perhaps the most obvious benefit is that it is much faster and easier to do it online than it is to file a paper return. Additionally, when you file online you can be sure that your return will be received and processed by the tax authorities in a timely manner.
Another benefit of filing your business tax return online in India is that it allows you to track the status of your return. This means that if there are any problems with your return, you will be able to quickly and easily resolve them. Additionally, if you need to make any changes to your return, you can do so easily online.
Finally, filing your annual business tax return online in India gives you the opportunity to take advantage of various e-filing services offered by the tax authorities. These services can save you time and money, and make it easier for you to comply with your tax obligations.
Types of Business in India
Proprietorship
If you have an income of more than Rs.2.5 lakhs per year, you will need to file a tax return each year. TaxRupees offers income tax filing for professionals and proprietors from Rs.2899
Partnership
Partnership firms are required to file ITR in form ITR 5 each year. Partnership firms need to pay income tax at the rate of 30%. TaxRupees offers ITR filing for partnership firms from Rs.5899
LLP
Limited liability partnerships (LLPs) registered in India are required to file ITRs in Form ITR-5 each year and MCA annual returns. TaxRupees offers comprehensive compliance management for LLPs starting from Rs.7899.
Companies
All types of companies that are registered in India are required to file ITR in Form ITR-6 each year and MCA Annual Return. TaxRupees offers comprehensive compliance management for companies starting from Rs.7899.
Proprietorship Tax Return Filing: The Complete Guide
If you're a sole proprietor in India, it's important to know how to file your tax return. This complete guide will walk you through the process, step by step. We'll also explore the benefits and disadvantages of filing a return, so you can make an informed decision about what's best for your business.
Eligibility for filing a proprietorship tax return
To be eligible to file a tax return as a proprietorship in India, you must have:
- A valid PAN card
- An annual turnover of more than INR 1.2 million (or INR 2 million if your business is in the manufacturing or trading sector)
- Business income from sources other than salary, interest, and dividends
Documents required for filing a proprietorship tax return
The following documents are required for filing a proprietorship tax return:
- Proprietorship registration certificate
- Income tax returns from the previous year (if applicable)
- Bank statements for the current financial year
- Audited financial statements (if applicable)
How to file a proprietorship tax return
You can file your proprietorship tax return online or offline.
To file online, you must first register for an e-filing account on the Income Tax Department website. Once you have registered and logged in, you will be able to access the e-filing portal.
On the e-filing portal, you will need to select the "Proprietorship" option under "Assessee Type." You will then need to fill out Form 26AS, which is an annual statement of your taxes paid and refunds received. After Form 26AS has been completed, you can proceed to file your income tax return by selecting the appropriate form (ITR).
You can also file your proprietor ship tax return offline by submitting a paper copy of your ITR along with supporting documents to your jurisdictional Assessing Officer.
The benefits of filing a proprietorship tax return
Tax deductions and exemptions
One of the main benefits of filing a proprietorship tax return is that you may be eligible for certain tax deductions and exemptions. For example, you can claim a deduction for the cost of goods sold (COGS), business expenses, and depreciation. This can help to reduce your overall tax liability.
Improved credibility with clients and suppliers
Another benefit of filing a proprietorship tax return is that it can help to improve your credibility with clients and suppliers. When you file your return on time and accurately, it shows that you are a responsible business owner who is organized and takes their obligations seriously. This can make it easier to win new business deals and get favorable terms from suppliers.
A simpler tax structure
Finally, another benefit of filing a proprietorship tax return is that it can help to simplify your tax structure. If you are registered for GST, then you will only need to file one consolidated return each year, rather than multiple returns for different taxes such as income tax, VAT, etc. This can save you both time and money in the long run.
The disadvantages of not filing a proprietorship tax return
Late filing penalties
One of the major disadvantages of not filing a proprietorship tax return is that you may be subject to late filing penalties. These penalties can be significant, and can include both interest and fines. In addition, if you fail to file a return for multiple years, you may be subject to criminal prosecution.
Difficulty in availing loans
If you are not up-to-date on your tax filings, it can be difficult to obtain loans, lines of credit, or other forms of financing. Lenders will often require proof of your current tax status before they will approve any applications, and if you cannot provide this documentation, it may be difficult to obtain the funding you need.
Loss of credibility
If you are self-employed or run a small business, your ability to attract and retain customers may suffer if you are not up-to-date on your tax filings. Customers may perceive you as being disorganized or unreliable if they learn that you have not been keeping up with your taxes, and this could lead to a loss of business.