By Lal Singh GST (Goods and Services Tax) has become an important part of every business in India. Whether you are a small trader, freelancer, or a big company, GST return filing is a legal requirement. But many people are confused about how much they should pay for GST return filing services. In this article, we will explain everything about GST return filing charges in India—what factors affect it, how much it usually costs, and why hiring a professional is beneficial.
What is GST Return Filing?
GST return filing is the process of submitting details of sales, purchases, tax collected, and tax paid to the government. There are different types of returns depending on your business type:
- GSTR-1: Monthly/Quarterly details of outward supplies (sales)
- GSTR-3B: Summary of sales and input tax credit
- GSTR-4: For composition scheme dealers
- GSTR-9: Annual return
- GSTR-9C: Reconciliation statement (for businesses with turnover above ₹5 crore)
If you fail to file returns on time, penalties and interest will apply. That’s why most businesses hire professionals to ensure timely and accurate filing.
Why Do GST Filing Charges Vary?
The cost of filing GST returns is not the same for every business. Charges depend on several factors:
1. Type of Business
- A small shopkeeper under the composition scheme may only need to file quarterly returns, so the charges are lower.
- A business with regular GST registration and large monthly sales will have higher compliance needs, so the cost increases.
2. Number of Transactions
- If your business has hundreds of invoices each month, the accountant needs more time and effort to prepare the data.
- More transactions mean higher charges.
3. Frequency of Filing
- Monthly filing is costlier than quarterly.
- Some businesses also need annual return filing and audit reports which are charged separately.
4. Location and Experience of Service Provider
- Charges in big cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bangalore may be higher.
- Highly experienced professionals or firms may charge more but also offer better quality and timely services.
Average GST Return Filing Charges in India
Here is an estimated cost range for different types of businesses:
| Type of Service | Approximate Charges (₹) |
| GSTR-3B (Monthly) for small traders | ₹300 – ₹800 per month |
| GSTR-1 (Monthly) | ₹400 – ₹1,000 per month |
| GSTR-1 (Quarterly) | ₹300 – ₹600 per quarter |
| GSTR-4 (Composition Scheme) | ₹500 – ₹1,000 per quarter |
| GSTR-9 (Annual Return) | ₹1,500 – ₹3,000 |
| GSTR-9C (Reconciliation & Audit) | ₹5,000 – ₹10,000+ |
Note: These are average charges. Your actual charges may vary depending on service provider and business complexity.
Should You Hire a GST Consultant?
Many people try to file returns themselves using government portals, but small mistakes can lead to big penalties. A GST expert or consultant can help you:
- File returns on time
- Avoid penalties
- Claim proper Input Tax Credit
- Handle GST notices and compliance issues
Hiring a professional also saves time and lets you focus on your business.
Tips for Choosing the Right GST Filing Service
- Check Experience: Choose someone with good knowledge of GST laws and return filing.
- Ask About Support: Some professionals provide support for GST queries and notices too.
- Compare Charges: Don’t go for the cheapest option always. Quality and reliability matter.
- Check Reviews: Ask for client feedback or online reviews if possible.
Conclusion
GST return filing is a must for every GST-registered business in India. Charges for filing depend on your business type, filing frequency, and volume of transactions. On average, small businesses may pay between ₹300 to ₹1,000 per month, while bigger businesses may pay more.
It is always a smart decision to hire a qualified professional for GST compliance. Not only will they ensure accuracy, but they will also help you stay on the right side of the law.
GST Return Filing Charges FAQs
Q1. What is the average fee for GST return filing in India?
The average fee for GST return filing in India ranges from ₹500 to ₹2,000 per return, depending on the type of business, number of transactions, and the complexity of filing. Regular taxpayers with monthly filings may pay more annually compared to small businesses.
Q2. Are GST return filing charges the same for all businesses?
No, GST filing charges vary depending on the type of business entity (proprietorship, partnership, company), volume of monthly transactions, and filing frequency (monthly/quarterly). Businesses with large transactions or multiple GSTINs typically have higher charges.
Q3. Is GST return filing free if done through the government portal?
Yes, technically, GST return filing through the official government portal (www.gst.gov.in) is free. However, most businesses hire a CA or GST expert for accuracy, compliance, and timely filing, which involves a service fee.
Q4. Can I file GST returns on my own to save money?
Yes, if you are confident with GST rules and have a simple business model, you can file returns on your own using the GST portal. However, errors can lead to penalties, so hiring a professional is recommended for businesses with regular invoices.
Q5. Are there any hidden charges in GST return filing by service providers?
Reliable service providers will give you transparent pricing. But it’s wise to ask for a detailed quote — including GSTN registration support, reconciliation, or notices handling — as these may cost extra beyond regular filing.