A business may have a period with no relevant taxable business activity. However, whether a nil return is appropriate depends on the applicable GST return and the taxpayer's circumstances.
A nil return should not be filed simply because there were no sales.
Businesses should also consider:
- Purchases
- Input tax credit
- Tax liability
- Other reportable transactions
- Reverse charge obligations
- Other applicable GST requirements
For example, GST Portal guidance for GSTR-9 explains specific conditions for a nil annual return, including no outward supply, purchases, liability, credit, refund or demand.
Conclusion
Always verify whether the applicable return qualifies for nil filing before submitting it.
