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Quarterly Newsletter – April 2025 Edition

Welcome to the April 2025 edition of our Quarterly Newsletter! At Naufal M and Company, we are committed to keeping you informed with the latest updates on tax regulations, GST reforms, and compliance requirements. This edition provides in-depth insights for individuals, businesses, startups, and NRIs to stay compliant and financially empowered. Dive in for actionable advice and key deadlines for Q1 FY 2025–26.

📰 Tax Talk Quarterly (April–June 2025)

Your essential guide to navigating tax and compliance updates for the first quarter of FY 2025–26.

1. Income Tax Updates

Form 10-IEA: Switching to the Old Tax Regime

Starting FY 2025–26, taxpayers opting out of the default new tax regime must file Form 10-IEA by the return filing deadline under Section 139(1). This form replaces Form 10-IE, streamlining the process for individuals and HUFs without business or professional income. The choice of regime affects your tax planning, including TDS calculations, exemptions (e.g., HRA, LTA), and deductions (e.g., Section 80C, 80D). Early planning ensures you maximize tax benefits.

  • Who should file? Individuals and Hindu Undivided Families (HUFs) with no business or professional income.
  • Deadline: Align with the income tax return filing date (typically July 31, 2025, for non-audit cases).
💡 Tip: Consult with our team to evaluate which regime suits your financial goals, considering income sources and eligible deductions.

Advance Tax – First Installment Due

The first installment of advance tax, covering 15% of your total tax liability for FY 2025–26, is due by June 15, 2025. This applies to taxpayers (individuals, HUFs, businesses) with a tax liability exceeding ₹10,000 in the financial year. Accurate estimation is crucial to avoid interest penalties under Sections 234B (for underpayment) and 234C (for deferred payments). Include all income sources, such as capital gains, interest, dividends, and rental income, in your calculations.

📌 Key Consideration: Review your income projections quarterly to adjust advance tax payments.
💡 Tip: Use our advance tax calculator or schedule a consultation to ensure compliance and avoid penalties.

2. Goods & Services Tax (GST) Highlights

Revamped GSTR-1 and GSTR-3B Formats

Effective April 1, 2025, the GST Council has introduced simplified formats for GSTR-1 (outward supplies) and GSTR-3B (monthly summary return). These changes aim to reduce errors and enhance compliance efficiency. Key updates include re-grouping Input Tax Credit (ITC) into eligible and ineligible categories and improved reconciliation between GSTR-2B (auto-populated ITC statement) and GSTR-3B. Businesses must adapt to these changes to avoid filing discrepancies.

  • Action Required: Update your accounting software (e.g., Tally, Zoho Books) to reflect the new formats.
  • Training: Retrain your finance team on the revised filing process to ensure accuracy.
💡 Tip: Our GST experts can assist with software integration and staff training for seamless transitions.

AI-Driven ITC Scrutiny

The GST Department has deployed AI-based tools to scrutinize Input Tax Credit (ITC) claims, focusing on mismatches and supplier non-compliance. Common triggers for notices include discrepancies between GSTR-2B and GSTR-3B, non-filing by suppliers, or missing documentation. To safeguard your ITC claims, maintain a robust documentation trail and conduct regular reconciliations.

  • Documentation Checklist:
    • GST-compliant tax invoices with valid GSTIN.
    • Proof of payment to suppliers (e.g., bank statements).
    • Evidence of goods/services received and used for business purposes.
💡 Tip: Perform monthly GSTR-2B reconciliations and proactively address non-compliant vendors to minimize notice risks.

3. TDS (Tax Deducted at Source) Updates

Revised TDS Thresholds

Effective April 2025, the government has updated TDS thresholds to reflect economic changes:

  • Section 194C (Payments to Contractors): Threshold increased to ₹50,000 per contract and ₹2,00,000 aggregate per year.
  • Section 192 (Salary): Revised standard deductions and rebates may impact monthly TDS calculations for employees.
  • Action: Update payroll systems and monitor payments to freelancers/contractors to ensure timely TDS deductions.
💡 Tip: Maintain up-to-date employee declarations (e.g., Form 12BB) for accurate TDS computation.

Penalties for TDS Non-Compliance

Failure to deduct or deposit TDS on time attracts strict penalties:

  • Interest: 1% per month for non-deduction or 1.5% per month for non-deposit (Section 201).
  • Late Filing Fee: ₹200 per day for delayed TDS return filing (Section 234E).
  • Penalty: Up to ₹1 lakh for non-filing or incorrect filing of TDS returns (Section 271H).
💡 Tip: Automate TDS calculations and deposits to minimize errors and ensure compliance.

4. Compliance Calendar (April–June 2025)

Stay on top of key deadlines to avoid penalties and ensure smooth operations:

Date Compliance
April 30, 2025 TDS Return Filing for Q4 FY 2024–25 (Form 26Q/24Q)
May 20, 2025 GSTR-3B Filing for April 2025
June 15, 2025 1st Installment of Advance Tax for FY 2025–26
June 20, 2025 GSTR-3B Filing for May 2025
June 30, 2025 Annual GST Return (GSTR-9) for FY 2023–24 (if extended)

Action Points & Recommendations

👤 For Individuals

Proactive tax planning is key to maximizing savings and staying compliant.

  • Choose Your Tax Regime: Evaluate old vs. new regime based on your income and deductions.
  • Advance Tax Payments: Pay by June 15, 2025, to avoid penalties.
  • Organize Documents: Collect investment proofs (e.g., ELSS, PPF) and expenses (e.g., insurance).

🏢 For Businesses

Ensure smooth operations by aligning with regulatory changes.

  • Update Systems: Upgrade ERP/accounting software for new GST formats.
  • Vendor Compliance: Validate supplier GSTIN and filing status before claiming ITC.
  • TDS Deductions: Review thresholds and automate deductions accurately.

🌟 General Tips for Everyone

Best practices to simplify and strengthen your compliance process.

  • Quarterly Reviews: Schedule audits to identify gaps and stay compliant.
  • Automation: Use tools like Cleartax or QuickBooks to reduce errors.
  • Set Reminders: Use calendar alerts to track all important due dates.

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