The GST Council established a GST complaint or grievance redressal platform via which taxpayers or complainants can obtain answers to GST fraud related concerns. Read this article to know more.
Since GST is a new architectural framework, taxpayers may be unsatisfied with their new surroundings in an altered taxation environment. In light of this, the GST Council established a GST complaint or grievance redressal platform via which taxpayers or complainants can obtain answers to GST-related concerns. You can also submit any GST fraud-related complaints and inquiries to our free GST helpline website or mobile app, available 24/7.
Providing you with a basic explanation of GST complaint filing, this procedure comprises individuals objecting to the new taxation environment in which they live. It is possible to file GST complaints or grievances online, and taxpayers can voice their unhappiness with the GST system using these portals.
About the GST Complaint Portal
The platform is designed for taxpayers and other stakeholders to lodge grievances. Instead of sending emails to the Helpdesk, taxpayers, and stakeholders can file a complaint here, describing the concerns or challenges when working on the GST portal. It has been developed so that the user can explain issues encountered (also regarding GSTIN verification and GST number check), and upload screenshots of pages where they met the problem, allowing for the speedy redressal of grievances.
Benefits of the GST Complaint Portal
Aspects of the GST Complaint Portal that are advantageous include the ability for the user to lodge his complaint and raise tickets on their own.
- To offer all necessary information while lowering the amount of back-and-forth contact between the Helpdesk and the taxpayers, facilitating a quicker settlement
- Provide the taxpayer with the ability to track the progress of their complaint by referencing the ticket number (acknowledgment number generated after a complaint is lodged)
- If the complaint or ticket has been closed, review the resolution remarks
- Based on the user’s selection of a category, issue, and subcategory, the GST portal delivers relevant FAQs and pages of the User handbook to assist him in solving the problem he is experiencing.
Steps to File a Complaint or Report an Issue on the GST Portal
Step 1 – In the ‘Type of Issue Or Concern’ box, enter a keyword linked to the issue or complaint you are experiencing. The system will search for and provide a list of all problems containing the input keyword. You can select the specific case, after which the system will display the FAQs and relevant sections of the User Manual about that issue or complaint
Step 2 – Read the FAQ, which may help you solve your problem
Step 3 – If no matches are found for the keyword you supplied, proceed to the next step. Then, in all such circumstances, you can choose the most applicable Category and Subcategory from the dropdown boxes adjacent to the box labeled ‘Type of Issue’
Step 4 – If we do not discover answers to our problems in the first three processes, we will file a GST Registration Process complaint: If the FAQs do not assist in fixing the issue, please pick the button ‘No, I want to lodge my complaint,’ which will take you to the page where you can fill out the data to file the complaint
Step 5 – Obtain the complaint ticket reference number, which the system will produce once you make your complaint. This ticket reference number will help track down the application status of the complaint made in the future.
Our online GST calculator India simplifies GST calculations. Try it for accurate results.
The GST Complaint Mail ID and the GST Complaint Number
Types of GST Fraud
Several cases have occurred under the GST regime in which retailers are charging customers incorrect GST rates. GST fraud is defined as the intentional imposition of a false GST rate on the customer. As a result, it is essential to understand GST complaints against dealers, GST fraud complaints, GST evasion complaints, how to report GST theft, and various other topics like GSTIN verification and GST number checks.
- GST is collected on items or services excluded from GST. There are a variety of commodities and services that are free from the GST. Some examples of such goods and services include water, vegetables, eggs, and other foodstuffs. However, because most customers are unaware of this list, merchants and dealers can manipulate the system and charge GST on things that are exempt from GST
- Imposing incorrect GST rates higher than the permitted GST rates. Because the GST rates for products and services are subject to change regularly. The consumer is not always aware of the most up-to-date GST rates. GST fraud on apparel purchases is the most prominent example of this type of GST fraud. According to the Goods and Services Tax (GST) Act, only a 5 percent GST rate applies to clothing products with a value of 1000 INR or less; however, many store owners are levying a standard GST rate regardless of the prices they are charging
- Attempt to defraud GST officers Occasionally, a taxpayer has complained to the GST office regarding bogus individuals impersonating GST officers. In answer to the question, the Chief Commission of GST (Delhi Zone) emphasized that no GST officer is permitted to visit any taxpayer and demand money in the name of the Goods and Services Tax.
Precautionary Measures
- Before paying any tax payment to a dealer, check the applicable GST rate on the product or service online. For the first time, the government has released a ‘GST RATE Finder App,’ which you may use to determine the exact GST rate applicable to any item or service.
- We will make every effort to resolve your concerns as quickly as possible on our end or, if necessary, transmit them to the appropriate government authorities for resolution.
- Keep GST numbers and taxes updated so that no one can trick you in the name of GST number verification or GST number check.
- Anyone can register a complaint using any of the techniques listed above against any shopkeeper or dealer charging an unethical GST tax amount or against a fictitious GST officer impersonating an honest GST officer. Further, if you require assistance with GST fraud, please leave a remark below, and we will advise you on the best course of action.
FAQs
What are the penalties for GST fraud?
The penalties for GST fraud can be as high as 100% of the tax amount unpaid, with a minimum penalty of Rs. 10,000. In cases of high-value fraud, the penalties can be even more severe, and the offender might also face a jail term.
How can I file a complaint against tax evasion, particularly in the context of GST?
Complaints against tax evasion, including GST, can be filed with the appropriate tax authorities through their designated channels.
Is evasion of GST considered a criminal offense?
Yes, evasion of GST is considered a criminal offense, and a person committing an offense with the deliberate intention of fraud can face prosecution and criminal charges under the GST law.
Can someone misuse a GST number?
Yes, misuse of a GST number is possible. It is essential to safeguard one's GST credentials to prevent unauthorised use.
Where should I file a complaint against GST-related issues?
Complaints related to GST can be filed with the GST department or tax authorities at the jurisdictional level.
What should I do if someone used my GST number to sell goods without my permission?
If someone used your GST number to sell goods without your permission, you should report the misuse to the concerned tax authorities and take steps to protect your GST number from further misuse.
What are the implications if I purchase a product using someone else's GST number?
Purchasing goods using another entity's GST number without authorization may lead to legal consequences and penalties.
Is there a time limit for GST scrutiny?
The GST law provides for a specified time limit for scrutiny, and it is essential to adhere to the timelines outlined in the legislation.
Who is eligible for a GST refund?
Businesses or individuals who have paid excess GST or have received inverted duty structure benefits are generally eligible for a GST refund. The criteria may vary based on specific circumstances.
