Brief on filing GSTR 2 and GSTR 2(A)

What is GSTR-2A?

GSTR-2A is an auto-generated, dynamic return that provides a detailed summary of the purchases made by a taxpayer. It is populated by the GST portal based on the information submitted by your suppliers in their GSTR-1 (sales return).

Key Features of GSTR-2A:

Dynamic Document: GSTR-2A is updated on a real-time basis as your suppliers file their GSTR-1 returns. This means that the details in GSTR-2A can change until the due date for filing GSTR-3B. It helps businesses track the ITC they are eligible to claim. This includes details like the tax paid on purchases, which can then be claimed by businesses in their GSTR-3B return. The form includes details about inward supplies, including the GST on the purchases made by a business from registered vendors. It lists the total amount of input tax credit (ITC) a business can claim, which is a vital part of GST filing.

The form auto-populates data based on supplier filings and transactions, but it is not finalized. You must verify this data before using it for your own returns.

Since it is dynamic, GSTR-2A is not the final document. Discrepancies in the supplier’s GSTR-1 or updates to the information can affect your GSTR-2A at any time before the final filing.

What is GSTR-2B?

GSTR-2B is a static, monthly statement that is also generated by the GST portal. It is a more refined version of GSTR-2A. GSTR-2B provides a snapshot of the ITC available for a particular month and takes into account all of the changes and corrections made by suppliers up to a specific date.

Unlike GSTR-2A, which is dynamic, GSTR-2B is static and is generated once a month. The details in this form reflect the final position of your input tax credit (ITC) for the month, considering any adjustments made by suppliers.

GSTR-2B clearly indicates the input tax credit available for a particular period, making it a crucial tool for determining what ITC can be claimed in that month’s GSTR-3B.

The form is generated based on the data from suppliers and their timely filing. It’s a more reliable source for determining eligible ITC since it’s not subject to changes after the reporting period ends, unlike GSTR-2A. Once the due date for filing GSTR-1 and GSTR-3B is over, GSTR-2B is considered final and will not change. This makes it easier to reconcile your ITC claim for the given month. GSTR-2B helps taxpayers reconcile their input tax credit claims by showing which ITC is eligible and the amounts that need to be claimed in GSTR-3B. It will also flag discrepancies, if any, in the purchase details, helping businesses correct errors before filing.