Businesses with aggregate turnover exceeding ₹5 crore, or those not opting for the QRMP scheme, must comply with monthly filing requirements for outward supplies. For the quarter January to March 2026, this primarily involves timely filing of GSTR-1.

Applicability of Monthly GSTR-1 Filing

As per Section 37 of the CGST Act, 2017 read with Rule 59 of the CGST Rules, 2017:

• Taxpayers with turnover above ₹5 crore are mandatorily required to file GSTR-1 on a monthly basis

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• Taxpayers not opting for the Quarterly Return Monthly Payment (QRMP) Scheme must also file monthly returns

What Needs to Be Reported?

GSTR-1 captures the summary of outward supplies, including:

• B2B (Business-to-Business) invoices

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• B2C (Large and Small) transactions

• Export supplies

• Credit/Debit notes issued

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• Nil-rated, exempt, and non-GST supplies

Accurate reporting ensures proper reflection in the recipient’s GSTR-2B and smooth ITC flow.

Due Dates for Jan–Mar 2026

• January 2026: 11th February 2026

• February 2026: 11th March 2026

• March 2026: 11th April 2026

Late filing may attract:

• Late fees under Section 47 of the CGST Act

• Interest implications under Section 50

Importance of Compliance

• Ensures seamless input tax credit for customers

• Avoids notices and penalties

• Maintains GST compliance rating

Practical Tips for Businesses

• Reconcile sales data with books regularly

• Verify GSTINs of customers

• Track amendments and credit notes properly

• Avoid last-minute filing errors

Conclusion

Timely and accurate filing of GSTR-1 for the Jan–Mar 2026 period is essential for businesses exceeding ₹5 crore turnover or not under QRMP. Proper compliance helps avoid penalties and ensures smooth GST operations.

For expert guidance on this topic, contact your tax professional today.