Step-by-Step Guide for GSTR-1 Monthly Filing

Step-by-Step Guide for GSTR-1 Monthly Filing (Above ₹1.5 Cr)

Taxpayers with annual turnover exceeding ₹1.5 crore are required to file GSTR-1 on a monthly basis.
GSTR-1 is a critical GST return that reports outward supplies (sales) and directly impacts customers’ Input Tax Credit (ITC).

This guide explains the complete step-by-step process for GSTR-1 monthly return filing, along with due dates, required data, and common mistakes.


What Is GSTR-1?

GSTR-1 is a GST return used to declare:

  • B2B sales invoices
  • B2C sales (large & small)
  • Debit & credit notes
  • Export & SEZ supplies (if applicable)

The data filed flows into the buyer’s GSTR-2A / GSTR-2B.


Who Must File GSTR-1 Monthly?

You must file GSTR-1 monthly if:

  • Aggregate turnover is above ₹1.5 crore
  • You are a regular GST taxpayer
  • You are not under the composition scheme

Applicable to:

  • Companies
  • Large traders
  • Manufacturers
  • Service providers
  • Growing MSMEs

GSTR-1 Monthly Due Date

ReturnDue Date
GSTR-1 (Monthly)11th of the next month

Late filing attracts penalties and may block buyers’ ITC.


Documents Required for GSTR-1 Monthly Filing

  • Sales invoices (B2B & B2C)
  • GSTIN of customers (for B2B)
  • Debit & credit notes
  • Export / SEZ invoice details (if any)
  • Accounting or billing software reports

Step-by-Step Process for GSTR-1 Monthly Return Filing

Step 1: Login to GST Portal

  • Login using:
    • GSTIN
    • Username
    • Password
    • Captcha

Step 2: Open GSTR-1 Return

  • Go to Returns → Returns Dashboard
  • Select Financial Year & Month
  • Click Prepare Online under GSTR-1

Step 3: Enter Outward Supply Details

Fill relevant tables:

  • Table 4 – B2B invoices
  • Table 5 – B2C (Large) invoices
  • Table 7 – B2C (Others)
  • Table 9B – Credit/Debit notes
  • Table 6A – Export invoices (if applicable)

Ensure invoice values and tax rates are accurate.


Step 4: Review Auto-Generated Summary

  • Check taxable value & GST amounts
  • Match with sales register
  • Correct errors before submission

Step 5: Submit GSTR-1

  • Click Submit
  • File return using:
    • DSC (Companies & LLPs)
    • EVC (Proprietors / Individuals)

Step 6: Download Acknowledgement

  • Download ARN & filed return
  • Save for compliance and audit records

Common Mistakes in Monthly GSTR-1 Filing

  • ❌ Incorrect customer GSTIN
  • ❌ Duplicate or missing invoices
  • ❌ Wrong tax rate application
  • ❌ Mismatch with GSTR-3B
  • ❌ Late filing affecting customer ITC

Late Fee for GSTR-1

TypeAmount
Late Fee₹50 per day
Nil Return₹20 per day
Maximum₹10,000

Importance of Timely GSTR-1 Filing

  • Ensures smooth ITC for customers
  • Prevents GST notices
  • Avoids late fees
  • Maintains strong GST compliance record
  • Mandatory for uninterrupted GST operations

How Saving Mantra Helps with GSTR-1 Monthly Filing

Saving Mantra provides end-to-end GST compliance services, including:

  • Monthly GSTR-1 preparation & filing
  • Invoice validation & reconciliation
  • GSTR-1 vs GSTR-3B matching
  • Error rectification & amendments
  • Compliance reminders & dashboards

✔ Accurate invoice reporting
✔ On-time filing
✔ Expert GST review


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. Is monthly GSTR-1 mandatory above ₹1.5 crore?
Yes. Quarterly filing is not permitted above this threshold.

Q2. Can GSTR-1 be revised after filing?
No. Errors must be corrected in subsequent returns.

Q3. Is GSTR-1 mandatory even if there are no sales?
Yes. A Nil GSTR-1 must be filed.

Q4. Does late GSTR-1 affect buyers?
Yes. Buyers may not receive ITC until GSTR-1 is filed.


Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only. GST laws, thresholds, due dates, and return filing procedures are subject to change based on government notifications. Always verify details from the official GST portal or consult a qualified GST professional before filing returns. Saving Mantra shall not be responsible for actions taken based on this content without professional advice.