GST to have Smaller Assessee Base as compared to Current IDT Universe

In India, the Goods and Services Tax (GST) is a relatively new tax regime that has fundamentally transformed the nation's indirect tax structure. Before its implementation, the nation had several indirect taxes, including Value Added Tax (VAT), Central Excise Duty, and Service Tax. GST is a comprehensive tax system that replaces all of these indirect taxes.

The GST tax system affects a broad range of companies, including small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) and startups. These businesses must understand how the GST tax system affects them to stay compliant and avoid costly penalties.

One important aspect of GST that small and medium-sized businesses must consider is the assessee base. In comparison to the current Indirect Tax (IDT) universe, the GST system will have a smaller assessee base.

What is Assessee Base?

Assessee base refers to the number of taxpayers who pay taxes in a specific tax system. In India, the current indirect tax universe has a broad assessee base, including manufacturers, wholesalers, and retailers. The GST tax system, on the other hand, has a narrower assessee base, primarily comprising manufacturers, service providers, and traders.

The GST tax system in India is divided into three categories: Central Goods and Services Tax (CGST), State Goods and Services Tax (SGST), and Integrated Goods and Services Tax (IGST). All three taxes are levied on the same tax base, which is the transaction value.

Smaller Assessee Base in GST

One of the significant differences between the current IDT universe and the GST system is the smaller assessee base. In the current IDT universe, there are numerous taxes, and taxpayers must pay taxes based on their specific sector or industry. GST replaces all of these taxes with a single comprehensive tax system that applies to all industries.

However, not all businesses will be impacted by the GST system. Businesses with an annual turnover of less than INR 20 lakhs are exempt from the GST tax system. Businesses with a turnover of INR 20 lakhs to INR 75 lakhs are eligible to register for the Composition Scheme, which allows for a lower tax rate and reduced compliance requirements.

Impact on Small and Medium Businesses

The smaller assessee base in the GST system can impact small and medium-sized businesses in several ways. First and foremost, businesses that were previously exempt from taxes may now be required to register for the GST system, increasing their compliance requirements and causing additional expenses.

Secondly, businesses that were previously registered for various indirect taxes must now register for GST, which may cause additional compliance challenges. GST is a more comprehensive tax system than previous indirect taxes, meaning businesses must comply with more stringent regulations.

Thirdly, small and medium-sized businesses that operate in the service sector may see an increase in compliance requirements. The GST tax system applies to service providers, meaning businesses that were previously exempt from indirect taxes may now be required to comply with the GST system.

Conclusion

The smaller assessee base in the GST tax system can have significant implications for small and medium-sized businesses in India. These businesses must understand their compliance requirements under the GST system and prepare for any additional expenses that may arise.

Despite the challenges, the GST tax system has several benefits for businesses, including simplifying the tax system, reducing compliance requirements, and providing a level playing field for all businesses.