Submitting Nil GST CMP-08 Statements via SMS for Composition Scheme Taxpayers
Composition scheme taxpayers in India can now conveniently file their nil GST CMP-08 statements through an SMS service, providing an alternative to the online portal. This method requires adherence to specific eligibility criteria, including having no outward supplies or tax liabilities for the quarter, and a registered authorized signatory. The process involves sending two simple SMS messages to a designated number, confirming the submission with a verification code, and receiving an Acknowledgement Reference Number upon successful filing.
Taxpayers registered under the Goods and Services Tax (GST) composition scheme have the option to submit their nil Form GST CMP-08 statements through an SMS service, in addition to the standard online filing method available on the GST portal. This facility was introduced to simplify compliance for specific taxpayers.Important updates regarding CMP-08 filings include a due date extension for the April-June 2022 quarter to July 31, 2022, as per Notification 12/2022. Additionally, the 43rd GST Council meeting announced interest relief for January-March 2021 quarter filings, with delayed submissions incurring reduced or standard interest rates depending on the submission date. The maximum late fee for GSTR-4 was capped at INR 500 for nil filings and INR 2000 for other cases, and its due date for FY 2020-21 was extended to July 31, 2021. Earlier, for the January-March 2021 quarter, interest relaxations were also provided, waiving interest until May 8, reducing it to 9% until May 23, and charging 18% thereafter.
Conditions for Filing Nil CMP-08 via SMS
Form CMP-08 functions as both a statement and a challan, used by taxpayers to report self-assessed tax liabilities quarterly. To submit a nil CMP-08 statement via SMS, composition scheme taxpayers must meet specific criteria:
- The individual must either be an existing composition taxpayer or have chosen the composition levy by submitting Form GST CMP-02.
- All prior quarterly CMP-08 statements must have been successfully filed.
- The designated authorized signatory's mobile number must be registered on the GST portal.
- No incomplete data for Form GST CMP-08 should be saved on the GST portal.
Eligibility Criteria for SMS-Based Nil CMP-08 Submission
Submitting a nil Form GST CMP-08 statement through SMS is permissible only under these circumstances:
- No outward supplies were made during the quarter.
- No tax liability arose from reverse charge mechanisms.
- No other tax obligations exist for the specific quarter being reported.
Step-by-Step Guide for SMS Nil CMP-08 Filing
Follow these steps to successfully file your nil CMP-08 statement via SMS:
- Step 1: Initiate the process by sending an SMS to 14409. The message format should be 'NIL [Return Type] [GSTIN] [Return Period]'. For instance, to file a nil statement for the April-June quarter, the message would look like 'NIL C8 08ACQPG4437PKZE 06 2020'.
- Step 2: Follow up by sending another SMS to the same number, including the received verification code to confirm your nil statement submission. If the code is 122058, for example, the message would be 'CNF C8 122058'.
- Step 3: Upon successful verification of the code, the GST portal will send an Acknowledgement Reference Number (ARN) to both your mobile number and registered email address, confirming the successful filing of your nil Form CMP-08.