GSTR-9 Excel Format: How to View GSTR-9 Draft in Excel Format on GST Portal

For the registered taxpayers, there is a facility on the GST portal to preview the information before filing the GSTR-9. Taxpayers can now download the GSTR-9 draft and match the information before making the final submission. In this article, we will discover how to view GSTR 9 draft and explore the importance of reviewing the GSTR 9 draft before submission.

What is draft GSTR-9?

The GSTR 9 draft, available on the GST portal, is vital to enhance the accuracy and ease of filing the GSTR-9 form. This Excel utility acts as a pre-checkpoint, allowing users to review all entered data before the final submission. Users can download the GSTR 9 format in Excel, providing an opportunity for a meticulous review to ensure correctness. This step is crucial in preventing errors and discrepancies in the final filing process.

Format of Draft GSTR-9 Excel

The GSTR 9 draft comprises six sections, including all the information about sales or supplies. Here is the breakdown of GSTR 9 format in Excel:

1. The first section in the GSTR 9 draft is about the basic details of the taxpayers. 
2. The second section includes all the details about the supplies to and from the business throughout the fiscal year. 
3. The third section of the GSTR 9 draft includes all the ITC details declared in the returns files during the fiscal year.
4. The fourth section includes the paid tax details declared in returns files during the fiscal year. 
5. The fifth section in the GSTR 9 draft contains prior fiscal year transaction details disclosed in returns from April to September of the current fiscal year. 
6. The last section in the GSTR 9 Excel format features the information about the demands and the refunds, late fee, HSN summary, deemed supplies, etc.

Importance of reviewing GSTR-9 before filing

The GSTR-9 form has been mandated to be filed within a given time frame, and if there is any discrepancy, a penalty will be imposed. Also, the tax officer may pick it up for scrutiny if there is any complication, such as wrong information or any missing details. So, to ensure you are safe, all the details are correct, and you adhere to the GST rules and regulations, download and review the GSTR 9 format in Excel before making the final submission. 

How to view the GSTR-9 draft in Excel?

Now that you know what is GSTR 9 draft, Let’s take a look at the steps on how to view GSTR 9 draft in excel format: 

Step 1: Access the GST portal

Begin by securely logging in with your username and password at www.gst.gov.in, ensuring a safe start to the filing process.

Step 2: Navigate to the dashboard

Once logged in, go to the dashboard and select the ‘Annual Return’ tab for an overview of your filing options.

Step 3: Select the relevant financial year

Choose the financial year 2022-23 to align your filing activities with the correct financial period.

Step 4: Initiate GSTR 9 online preparation

Select the GSTR-9 ‘Prepare Online’ tab to start digitally preparing your annual return conveniently.

Step 5: Handle nil return filing option

In a new window, choose between 'Yes' or 'No' for Nil Return Filing and proceed by clicking ‘Next.’

Step 6: Preview draft GSTR 9 in Excel

Find the ‘Preview Draft GSTR 9 – Excel’ tab in the footer to get a comprehensive preview in Excel format.

Step 7: Download draft Excel file

Click on ‘Preview Draft GSTR 9 – Excel,’ and once activated, click the link ‘Click here to download Excel – File 1’ in the footer to download the draft Excel file.

Once you have downloaded the GSTR 9 draft, you can start looking for the details and ensure they are correct. 

Understanding the importance of reviewing the GSTR 9 draft before submission is key for a smooth filing experience. Know how to view GSTR-9 draft in Excel format on GST portal with the steps provided in this article. Take the time to review your details for ensuring accuracy and compliance with GST rules and navigate the filing process with confidence.