Service tax payment deadlines require earlier electronic deposits while permitting quarterly and compositional options for eligible providers. Service tax must be paid to the Central Government by specified deadlines after the calendar month in which the service is deemed provided, with earlier deadlines for electronic deposits. Small-service providers may pay quarterly and may elect to pay on receipts up to a prescribed aggregate value. Advance payments and provisional assessments are allowed with notification and returns; excess payments can be adjusted against future liabilities subject to exclusions for disputed legal issues. Elective composition schemes are available for specified services and apply uniformly for the financial year.