The Central Board of Indirect Taxes & Customs (CBIC) is taking significant steps to streamline the scrutiny process for Goods and Services Tax (GST) returns. In response to directions from Union Minister for Finance and Corporate Affairs Nirmala Sitharaman, the CBIC has introduced the Automated Return Scrutiny Module for GST returns.
Non-Intrusive Compliance Verification
The Automated Return Scrutiny Module, now available in the ACES-GST backend application for Central Tax Officers, aims to facilitate seamless compliance verification. Through the use of data analytics and risk identification, the module allows tax officers to scrutinize the GST returns of Centre Administered Taxpayers.
Identifying Discrepancies and Ensuring Accuracy
The module provides tax officers with a comprehensive view of discrepancies associated with each return. By leveraging the workflow within the GSTN Common Portal, officers can interact with taxpayers to communicate observed discrepancies via FORM ASMT-10.
They can receive the taxpayer’s response in FORM ASMT-11 and take appropriate actions such as issuing an order of acceptance in FORM ASMT-12, issuing a show cause notice, or initiating an audit/investigation.
Initial Implementation and Focus
The implementation of the Automated Return Scrutiny Module has commenced with the scrutiny of GST returns for the fiscal year 2019-20. The necessary data for this purpose has already been made available on the officers’ dashboard, ensuring a smooth transition to the new module.
Enhancing Compliance and Reducing Discrepancies
The introduction of the Automated Return Scrutiny Module is a significant milestone in the government’s efforts to enhance GST compliance. By leveraging advanced data analytics and automation, the module aims to reduce discrepancies, improve communication between taxpayers and tax officers, and ultimately ensure greater accuracy in GST returns.
As the Automated Return Scrutiny Module rolls out, taxpayers can expect a more efficient and transparent scrutiny process, while tax officers will have access to powerful tools for compliance verification. This move signifies the government’s commitment to fostering a streamlined and robust tax ecosystem in the country.
