This blog offers a thorough examination of the most recent GST announcements and modifications from January 28 to February 3, 2025. The hard locking of the automatically generated tax obligation in GSTR-3B, improved automation in submitting GST returns, clarifications of ITC eligibility, extensions of the GST return deadline for some industries, and improvements to the GSTN site are some of the major developments. The goals of these improvements are to increase taxpayer satisfaction, decrease mistakes, and improve compliance.

One significant change brought about by the recent alteration to Section 87A of the Income Tax Act is the removal of the rebate on special rate incomes, such as short-term and long-term capital gains. The Bombay High Court formerly permitted the refund even for earnings with special rates, but this has now been reversed. Even if their total income is less than ₹7 lakh, taxpayers who make capital gains will now be required to pay tax at certain rates. The changes, their effects, and tax preparation techniques are examined in this blog.

Significant GST reforms were implemented in the Union Budget 2025, with an emphasis on increasing transparency, reducing the tax burden on small enterprises, and boosting compliance. Stricter ITC claim regulations, e-invoicing requirements for companies with ₹5 crore in revenue, updated GST rates, and higher GST registration limits for MSMEs are some of the major changes. Although companies must adjust to more stringent laws, these changes seek to simplify compliance, increase economic growth, and streamline procedures.

Key tax and financial reforms that affect people, companies, and the economy are included in the Finance Bill 2025, which was issued together with the Union Budget. It provides clarification on crypto taxation, simplified GST, lowered corporate taxes, and updated income tax slabs.

The most significant adjustment to income tax slabs brought about by the Union Budget 2025 was the exemption of income up to ₹12 lakhs from taxes. Additional changes include a higher standard deduction of ₹75,000 and lower tax rates for those making between ₹8 lakhs and ₹24 lakhs. The goals of these measures are to streamline the tax filing process, promote savings and investments, and give middle-class taxpayers financial relief. The new tax system and its effects on people and the economy as a whole are covered in this blog.

The Union Budget 2025–2026, to be presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on February 1, 2025, is expected to set the financial roadmap for the coming fiscal year. Key areas of focus include changes in taxation, infrastructure development, digital economy growth, and social welfare programs. With rising expectations from businesses and taxpayers, this budget will play a crucial role in shaping India’s economic future. Stay tuned for key announcements and live updates on Budget Day.

A number of important improvements have been proposed by the Employees' Provident Fund Organization (EPFO) for 2025 with the goal of enhancing customer ease, efficiency, and transparency. A Centralized Pension Payment System (CPPS), a simplified joint declaration procedure, digital profile updates, quicker EPF withdrawals, and an auto-transfer function for job changers are some of the major modifications. These changes provide workers more control over their provident fund accounts, streamline EPF contributions, and improve grievance resolution. To get the most out of your EPF benefits, be informed about these significant changes.

The Income Tax Department (ITD) has started sending SMS alerts to taxpayers who have claimed Section 80GGC deductions for donations made to political parties and electoral trusts. The notice applies to Assessment Years 2022-23, 2023-24, and 2024-25 and urges taxpayers to verify their claims on the Compliance Portal. If the claim is incorrect, taxpayers must file an Updated Return (ITR-U) under Section 139(8A) before 31st March 2025 to avoid penalties under Section 270A (up to 200% fine) and interest under Section 234F (₹5,000 late fee). This blog explains Section 80GGC deductions, compliance requirements, and the steps to correct errors in tax filings.

The Income Tax Department's (ITD) capricious limitations on Section 87A refund applications have been invalidated by the Bombay High Court. The court decided that it was unreasonable for qualified taxpayers to be denied refunds due to technical constraints. Many people who were previously refused tax relief because of technical limitations now benefit from this ruling. To guarantee that rebate claims are handled efficiently, ITD must now modernize its systems. In order to get any refunds to which they are entitled, taxpayers should verify their status.

Important clarification about the GST applicability of fines levied by banks and NBFCs for loan breaches is provided by Circular 245. In the past, it was unclear if punitive costs like late payment fines were subject to GST. The circular affirms that these fines are free from GST as they are a result of contract violations rather than a compensation for services. This clarification ensures equitable and transparent taxes in financial transactions by lowering the tax burden on borrowers and financial institutions.

Under Section 51 of the GST Act, specified entities must deduct TDS at 2% for payments exceeding ₹2.5 lakh. Exemptions include unregistered suppliers, exempt goods, and small contracts. Deductors must adhere to filing deadlines and compliance norms, while suppliers can claim TDS as ITC, fostering transparency and tax compliance.

In anticipation of important changes including infrastructure status, GST rationalization, digital single-window clearance, talent development programs, and sustainability incentives, the Indian hotel industry is looking forward to Budget 2025. These adjustments have the potential to greatly increase industry expansion, improve worldwide competitiveness, and assist small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs). Explore the main expectations for the next budget by reading on.