How to Use Input Tax Credit for the Payment of GST Demand?

Input Tax Credit (ITC) refers to the credit that a business can claim for the taxes paid on inputs (goods or services) used in the production or supply of goods/services. In other words, it is the credit that a business can claim for the taxes paid on inputs used to generate revenue. For example, if a manufacturer purchases raw materials on which he pays taxes, he can claim an input tax credit for the taxes paid on these raw materials when he sells the finished goods. Similarly, a service provider who purchases office supplies or pays taxes on the rent of his office can claim an input tax credit on these expenses. The Input Tax Credit (ITC) system is designed to avoid double taxation of goods or services by allowing businesses to claim credit for the taxes paid on inputs. It helps in reducing the overall tax burden on businesses and promotes the ease of doing business. This article will discuss about the concept of GST Demand and the use of Input Tax credit (ITC) when in terms of payment of GST Demand.

What Is Meant By GST Demand?

GST demand refers to the amount of Goods and Services Tax (GST) that is payable by a person or entity to the government. GST is a tax levied on the supply of goods & services in India, which replaced multiple indirect taxes like excise duty, service tax, and value-added tax (VAT).

When a person or entity supplies goods or services, they are required to charge GST from their customers and deposit the collected amount with the government. This amount is known as output GST. On the other hand, when a person or entity purchases goods or services, they are required to pay GST to their suppliers. This amount is known as input GST.

How Is GST Demand Calculated?

The GST demand is calculated by subtracting the input GST from the output GST. If the output GST is higher than the input GST, the difference must be paid to the government, and if the input GST is higher than the output GST, the person or entity is eligible for a refund.

For example, if a company sells goods worth Rs. 1, 00,000 and charges 18% GST on the sale, the output GST collected would be Rs. 18,000. If the company purchases goods worth Rs. 80,000 and pays 18% GST on the purchase, the input GST paid would be Rs. 14,400. Therefore, the GST demand would be Rs. 3,600 (output GST – input GST).

It is important for businesses to keep track of their GST demand and ensure timely payment to avoid penalties and interest charges. They can use various software and accounting tools to calculate and manage their GST liabilities.

Few Conditions That Is To Be Fulfilled Before the Use of Input Tax Credit (ITC)

In the case of a GST demand, the taxpayer can utilize the available ITC to pay the demand amount. However, there are certain conditions that need to be met before utilizing the ITC for payment of GST demand:

• The ITC should be available in the electronic credit ledger of the taxpayer.
• The ITC should be eligible for utilization against the GST demand.
• The ITC should not be under any dispute or pending adjudication.

Step By-Step Process for Using ITC for the Payment of GST Demand

If the above conditions are met, the taxpayer can use the ITC for the Payment of GST demand.

The process for using the ITC for payment of GST demand is as follows:

1. Log in to the GST portal and go to the ‘Services’ tab.
2. Click on the ‘Ledgers’ option and select the ‘Electronic Credit Ledger’.
3. Select the ITC that is available for utilization.
4. Click on the ‘Set-off’ button and select the GST demand for which the ITC is to be utilized.
5. Enter the amount of ITC to be utilized for payment of the demand.
6. Click on the ‘Offset Liability’ button to complete the process.
7. Once the ITC is utilized for payment of the GST demand, the taxpayer’s electronic credit ledger will be updated, and the demand will be considered as paid.

Conclusion

It is important to note that the utilization of ITC for payment of GST demand is subject to the provisions of the GST law, and any incorrect utilization can attract penalties and interest. Therefore, it is better advisable to consult a tax professional or seek expert guidance from the GST authorities before utilizing ITC for payment of GST demand.

Read Our Article: What Is Input Tax Credit Under GST?