GST Update : Mastering GSTR-9 & 9C for FY 2024-25

The landscape of GST compliance has matured. For Financial Year 2024-25, the government has solidified a two-pronged approach: simplification for smaller taxpayers and rigorous self-policing for larger entities.

Gone are the days of mandatory CA audits for reconciliation. The onus is now squarely on the taxpayer to “Self-Certify.” This guide breaks down the final applicability norms.

1. GSTR-9 (The Annual Return)

GSTR-9 is the annual consolidation of all your monthly/quarterly returns. The filing obligation is strictly determined by your Aggregate Annual Turnover (AATO).

2. GSTR-9C (Reconciliation Statement)

This is the Self-Certified reconciliation statement linking the figures reported in your GSTR-9 with your Audited Annual Financial Statements.

3. 🚨 Critical Updates (FY 24-25)

Pay close attention to these three areas to avoid notices:

• The “Reclaimed ITC” Trap (Table 6H): You must specifically report ITC that was reversed in previous periods and reclaimed in the current FY. Mismatches here trigger scrutiny.
• Precise Segregation: ITC must be strictly separated into Capital Goods, Inputs, and Input Services in Table 6.
• GSTR-2B Auto-Population: Table 8A now pulls strictly from GSTR-2B. Ensure your Purchase Register matches GSTR-2B month-on-month.

4. The “Cheat Sheet” Summary