Posts

GST Changes from 1 November 2026: New Rules for Hotels, Catering, Electric Vehicles and Delivery Services

Image
Introduction The Goods and Services Tax (GST) framework in India continues to evolve to address changing business models and industry requirements. The Government has introduced important changes to the GST treatment of hotel accommodation, restaurant services, outdoor catering, electric vehicle transportation and renting, and specified delivery services through e-commerce operators. These amendments have been notified through Notification No. 06/2026–Central Tax (Rate), dated 27 October 2026 , and are effective from 1 November 2026 . One of the important aspects of these changes is the revision of Input Tax Credit (ITC) conditions. Businesses opting for specified lower GST rates will continue to face restrictions on general ITC, but limited credit for certain input services in the same line of business is now permitted. Hotels, restaurants, catering businesses, EV operators, transport providers and e-commerce delivery businesses should understand these changes and review their billing...

GSTR-9 Filing for FY 2025–26: 5 Common Mistakes Businesses Must Avoid

Image
A Complete Guide to Accurate GST Annual Return Filing, ITC Reconciliation and GST Compliance Introduction Filing the Goods and Services Tax (GST) annual return is an important compliance responsibility for businesses registered under GST in India. The GSTR-9 Annual Return provides a consolidated summary of outward supplies, inward supplies, Input Tax Credit (ITC), tax payments and other relevant transactions undertaken during a financial year. For FY 2025–26 , businesses required to file GSTR-9 should carefully review their GST records to ensure accurate reporting and minimise discrepancies. Even minor mistakes in GST annual return preparation can lead to reconciliation difficulties, departmental queries, potential tax demands and unnecessary compliance complications. The general due date for filing GSTR-9 for FY 2025–26 is 31 December 2026 , unless extended through an official notification. In this article, Taxla Services explains five common GSTR-9 filing mistakes, their potential c...

Diwali Gifts and Income Tax in India: Are Your Festive Gifts Taxable in 2026?

Image
A Complete Guide to Gift Tax Rules, ₹50,000 Exemption, Employer Gifts and Tax Compliance Introduction: Celebrate Diwali Without Unexpected Tax Liabilities Diwali is one of India's most cherished festivals, celebrated with lights, sweets, family gatherings and the exchange of gifts. From cash and jewellery to electronic gadgets, gift vouchers and valuable properties, exchanging presents is an important part of the festive tradition. However, many taxpayers are unaware that certain Diwali gifts may attract income tax , depending on who gives the gift, its monetary value and the nature of the asset received. While gifts from specified relatives are generally exempt, gifts received from friends, employers and other individuals may have different tax implications. Understanding these rules can help taxpayers celebrate confidently while maintaining proper financial records. In this guide, Taxla Services explains the income tax treatment of Diwali gifts in India, the ₹50,000 threshold, e...

Foreign Assets Disclosure Scheme 2026: Online Filing, Eligibility, Form 1 and Tax Compliance – Complete Guide

Image
Introduction With increasing globalisation, more Indian taxpayers are investing, working and earning income outside India. Foreign bank accounts, overseas investments, international properties and income from foreign sources have become increasingly common. However, foreign assets and income can also create additional reporting obligations under Indian income tax laws. Failure to disclose applicable foreign holdings may lead to compliance issues, notices, penalties and other consequences. A recent tax awareness update has highlighted the Foreign Assets of Small Taxpayers Disclosure Scheme (FADS), 2026 , describing it as a proposed or reported opportunity for eligible taxpayers to disclose previously unreported foreign assets and income. The update mentions online filing through Form 1 and a deadline of 31 December 2026 . Important clarification: The existence, legal provisions, official filing facility and deadline of the scheme described as FADS 2026 have not been independently veri...

GST Changes from 1 November 2026: New Rules for Post-Supply Discounts, ITC Reversal and GST Refunds

Image
Introduction The Goods and Services Tax (GST) framework continues to evolve to simplify business compliance, improve transparency and streamline refund procedures. According to the GST update referencing Notification No. 03/2026-Central Tax dated 26 October 2026 , three important amendments introduced through the Finance Act, 2026, are scheduled to take effect from 1 November 2026 . These changes concern post-supply discounts, provisional refunds under the inverted duty structure and the minimum refund threshold for certain exports. For manufacturers, traders, distributors, exporters and other registered businesses, understanding these amendments is important for maintaining accurate GST records and managing working capital. This article explains the reported changes, their potential business implications and the compliance measures taxpayers should consider. 1. Understanding Post-Supply Discounts Under GST Post-supply discounts are reductions in the price of goods or services granted ...

GST Update 2026: Export Payments Through SNRR and Nostro Accounts – Key Clarifications for Exporters

Image
Introduction India's export sector plays an important role in economic growth, international trade and foreign exchange earnings. As cross-border transactions become more complex, exporters must understand how the Goods and Services Tax (GST) framework interacts with Reserve Bank of India (RBI) regulations governing international payments. A recent GST update highlighted in CBIC Circular No. 263/09/2026-GST, dated 26 October 2026 , addresses the treatment of export payments received through Special Non-Resident Rupee (SNRR) accounts, INR Nostro accounts and other permitted banking arrangements. The clarification is particularly relevant to businesses providing services to overseas clients, exporters using international settlement arrangements, stock brokers receiving payments from non-residents and companies adjusting export receivables against import liabilities. Understanding these provisions can help businesses maintain accurate records, manage GST refund claims and avoid unnece...