Good Service Text (GST) Audit

GST Audit is a key compliance requirement under the Goods and Services Tax regime for businesses crossing a prescribed turnover threshold. At CA Shubham Sudhir Gupta &Co, we help you navigate the complexities of GST Audit with precision, professionalism, and peace of mind.

What is GST Audit?

A GST Audit is an examination of records, returns, and other documents maintained by a registered taxpayer to verify the correctness of turnover declared, taxes paid, input tax credit claimed, and compliance with the provisions of the GST Act.

Who Needs to Undergo a GST Audit?

  1. Businesses with aggregate turnover exceeding ₹5 crore in a financial year (as per previous rules).
  2. Entities specifically notified by the GST department for departmental audit.
  3. Businesses that receive notice under Section 65/66/67 for special or departmental audits.
  4. Note:-Mandatory GST audit by a CA/CMA was abolished in Budget 2021, but businesses can still be audited by the tax department or voluntarily for internal assurance.

Types of GST Returns & Their Purpose

  1. Statutory GST Audit
    (Now removed; previously for businesses with turnover > ₹2/5 crore)
  2. Departmental Audit (u/s 65)
    Conducted by GST officers at regular intervals.
  3. Special Audit (u/s 66)
    Directed by tax authorities, conducted by a Chartered/Cost Accountant nominated by the Commissioner.
  4. Voluntary/Internal GST Audit
    Businesses may opt for internal audit to ensure compliance and avoid future disputes.

Why GST Audit is Essential for Every Business

  1. Ensures correctness of tax paid and ITC claimed
  2. Helps avoid penalties and legal scrutiny
  3.  Builds confidence in records and compliance
  4.  Prepares business for departmental or special audits
  5. Identifies opportunities for cost savings & process improvements

Documents Required for GST Audit

  1. GST returns (GSTR-1, GSTR-3B, GSTR-9, etc.)
  2. Books of accounts and trial balance
  3. Invoices (sales & purchases)
  4. Debit/Credit notes
  5. Reconciliation statements (books vs returns)
  6. Input tax credit register
  7. Stock and inventory records
  8. GST registration and amendment certificates
  9. Challans for tax payments
  10. Previous audit reports (if any)

Consequences of Non-Compliance

  1. Notices from GST department
  2. Penalties for under-reporting or wrong ITC claims
  3. Legal consequences in case of tax evasion
  4. Blocking of GSTIN or business restrictions
  5. Higher scrutiny in future assessments

Our accurate and Transparent GST Audit Process

  1. Understanding Your Business Operations
    We start by analyzing your business model, industry, and GST profile.
  2. Review of Books & GST Returns
    Examine your financial records, ledgers, and GST filings for accuracy.
  3. Reconciliation & Compliance Check
    Match turnover, input tax credit, and tax liabilities between books and returns.
  4. Identify Discrepancies & Risks
    Highlight any inconsistencies, non-compliances, or potential exposure to notices.
  5. Prepare Audit Report & Recommendations
    Draft a detailed GST audit report with findings and corrective action plans.
  6. Assistance in Departmental Audits
    Represent your case during audits initiated by GST authorities and handle follow-ups.