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The CBIC has provided relief to small taxpayers under Notification No. 15/2025-CT dated 17-09-2025. From FY 2024-25 onwards, registered taxpayers with aggregate turnover up to Rs. 2 crore are exempt from filing GST Annual Return (GSTR-9). This step simplifies GST compliance and reduces administrative burden.
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1. Understanding Section 44(1) of the CGST Act
Section 44(1) requires every registered taxpayer to file GSTR-9 annual return, reconciling:
Outward and inward supplies
Input Tax Credit
Taxes paid
Before Notification 15/2025-CT, all regular taxpayers were required to file GSTR-9, adding compliance cost and administrative effort, especially for small businesses.
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2. Key Features of Notification 15/2025-CT
a. Exemption Threshold
Taxpayers with aggregate turnover = Rs. 2 crore are exempt from GSTR-9 filing.
Effective from FY 2024-25 onwards.
b. Definition of Aggregate Turnover
Includes:
All taxable supplies (inter-state & intra-state)
Exempt supplies
Exports of goods/services
Inter-state supplies by the same PAN
Excludes:
Reverse charge supplies
Non-GST supplies
c. Eligible Taxpayers
Regular registered taxpayers with turnover = Rs. 2 crore
Excludes: taxpayers above Rs. 2 crore or required to file GSTR-9C (audit-based)
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3. Benefits of the Exemption
Reduces compliance burden for MSMEs, startups, and small businesses
Saves time and cost in annual GST reconciliation
Allows focus on monthly/quarterly GST returns (GSTR-1, GSTR-3B)
Encourages ease of doing business and digital adoption
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4. Practical Guidance for Taxpayers
1. Verify Aggregate Turnover: Ensure total turnover does not exceed Rs. 2 crore.
2. Maintain Proper Records: Books of accounts and invoices must be maintained even if exempt.
3. Continue Other GST Compliance: GSTR-1 and GSTR-3B filing remains mandatory.
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5. Government’s Objective
CBIC aims to:
Reduce compliance burden on small taxpayers
Promote ease of doing business
Encourage digital GST filing and adoption
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6. Conclusion
Notification No. 15/2025-CT is a landmark relief for small taxpayers. Exemption from GSTR-9 filing simplifies GST compliance, reduces administrative burden, and promotes growth for MSMEs and small businesses.
For further guidance or queries on GST compliance, connect at CA sandeep rawat at 9315776867 or email [email protected].