Supporting Documents Required for GST Notice on Credit Notes – FY 2021–22

[Rajagopal K]

Dear Experts,

One of our clients has received a notice from the GST Department regarding output tax liability reduction through credit notes for FY 2021–22. The department has questioned the eligibility of these credit notes under Section 34 and Section 15(3)(b) of the CGST/TNGST Act, 2017.

Key Points from the Notice:

1. Credit notes were issued during FY 2021–22.
2. The department assumes that some of these credit notes pertain to supplies made in FY 2020–21.
3. It has asked the client to justify the reduction in output tax liability and confirm that:

• The credit notes comply with Section 34.
• The conditions under Section 15(3)(b) (especially regarding post-supply discounts) are fulfilled.
• The recipient has reversed input tax credit (ITC) where applicable.
• The department appears to be relying on Circular No. 212/6/2024-GST, dated 26-06-2024, issued by CBIC.

Clarification from Our End:

• All credit notes were issued for supplies made within FY 2021–22 only.
• All credit notes were properly disclosed in GSTR-1 under the Credit Notes section in the respective months of issuance.
• As per our understanding, Circular No. 212/6/2024-GST clearly states that it is applicable only for FY 2023–24 onwards, and not retrospectively applicable to FY 2021–22.

Query:

What are the key supporting documents that should be prepared and submitted to respond effectively to this notice, especially given that the cited circular does not apply to FY 2021–22?

Any clarification on handling such departmental misapplication of circulars would also be appreciated.

Thank you in advance.

AI Summary

Taxpayer disputes GST challenge to FY2021-22 credit notes under Section 34 and Section 15(3)(b), provides documentary proof A taxpayer received a GST notice challenging credit notes issued in FY 2021-22, alleging they relate to earlier-year supplies and invoking Section 34 and Section 15(3)(b) and a CBIC circular; the taxpayer contends notes relate to FY 2021-22, were reported in GSTR-1, and the circular is prospective. Key supporting documents to submit: original invoices and corresponding credit notes showing issue and supply dates; detailed reconciliation linking credit notes to specific supplies and GSTR-1 entries; buyer acknowledgments or declarations (if obtainable); ITC reversal records, amended returns if any, contractual or communication evidence for price adjustments, and bank/credit records proving transactions.