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GST Annual Return (GSTR-9 and 9C): Complete Guide

Year-end reconciliation of your GST filings.
23 September 2026 by
GST Annual Return (GSTR-9 and 9C): Complete Guide
Gaurav Kumar
Tax, GST & TDSComplete Guide3 min read
The short answer

GSTR-9 is the annual GST return summarising outward supplies, input tax credit and tax paid for the financial year, generally due by 31 December of the following year. It has been optional for taxpayers with turnover up to Rs 2 crore in recent years. GSTR-9C, a self-certified reconciliation statement, applies to taxpayers with turnover above Rs 5 crore.

Due date31 December following the year
OptionalTurnover up to Rs 2 crore (recent years)
GSTR-9CTurnover above Rs 5 crore
Late feePer day, capped by turnover

Who files

Regular taxpayers above the optional threshold; composition dealers file GSTR-4 instead.

Preparation

  1. Reconcile books with GSTR-1 and GSTR-3B.
  2. Reconcile ITC with GSTR-2B.
  3. Identify amendments and additional liabilities.

GSTR-9C

Reconciles audited financials with GSTR-9 and is self-certified by the taxpayer.

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Common errors

  • Mismatched ITC
  • Unreported credit notes
  • Wrong HSN summary

Frequently asked questions

Can GSTR-9 be revised?

No. Review carefully before filing.

Can I pay extra tax in GSTR-9?

Yes, additional liability is paid through DRC-03.

Is GSTR-9C certified by a CA?

It is now self-certified by the taxpayer.

What is the late fee?

A daily late fee applies, capped as a percentage of turnover.

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