दिवाळीच्या हार्दिक हार्दिक शुभेच्छा
दिवाळीच्या हार्दिक हार्दिक शुभेच्छा

दिवाळीच्या हार्दिक हार्दिक शुभेच्छा

दिवाळी म्हणजे काय?

दिवाळी हा भारतातील एक महत्त्वाचा सण आहे, जो प्रत्येक वर्षी कार्तिक महिन्यात साजरा केला जातो. याला ‘दीपावली’ असेही म्हणतात आणि हा सण भारताच्या विविध भागांत विविध पद्धतींनी साजरा केला जातो. दिवाळीच्या उत्सवाचे मुख्य कारण म्हणजे अंधारातून प्रकाशाकडे, चांगुलपणाकडे व प्रकाशाच्या विजयाकडे नेणे, हेच आहे. या दिवशी पुराणानुसार Lord रामचंद्रांनी रावणावर विजय मिळवून अयोध्येत परतले होते. त्यामुळे दिवाळीचा सण श्रीरामाच्या स्वागतासाठी साजरा केला जातो.

दिवाळीच्या सणात विविध धार्मिक व सांस्कृतिक गोष्टींचा समावेश असतो. सणाच्या तयारीच्या काळात लोक आपले घरे स्वच्छ आणि सुशोभित करतात, विशेषतः घराच्या प्रवेशद्वाराजवळ दीप किंवा कंदील लावले जातात. या दिवशी लक्ष्मी पूजेची विशेष महत्त्व आहे, कारण देवी लक्ष्मीची पूजा करून लोक धन, समृद्धी आणि खुशालीची प्रार्थना करतात. पूजा संपल्यानंतर, लोक एकत्र येऊन गोड पदार्थांचे आदानप्रदान करतात, ज्यामुळे एकत्रतेची भावना प्रकट होते.

फटाक्यांचा उपयोग दिवाळीत मोठ्या उत्साहात केला जातो, जो अंधारात प्रकाश करतो आणि आनंद व्यक्त करतो. यामध्ये फटाके फोडण्याच्या पारंपरिक पद्धतींपेक्षा देखील, सुरक्षा आणि पर्यावरणाची काळजी घेणे आवश्यक आहे. कारण, फटाक्यांच्या धुरामुळे आणि आवाजाने काही घटकांवर नकारात्मक परिणाम होऊ शकतात. दिवाळीच्या उत्सवाच्या वेळी सर्वांनी एकत्र येऊन साजरा करणे, एकमेकांच्या आनंदात सहभागी होणे व अंधारातून प्रकाशाकडे पाहणे हे अत्यंत महत्त्वाचे आहे.

दिवाळीचे महत्त्व

दिवाळी, भारतीय उपखंडातील एक महत्त्वाचा सण, केवळ धार्मिक दृष्ट्या महत्वाचा नाही, तर सामाजिक दृष्ट्या देखील अत्यंत महत्त्वाचा आहे. हा सण प्रकाशाचा, आनंदाचा, आणि एकत्र येण्याचा प्रतिनिधित्व करतो. दिवाळीच्या उत्सवाद्वारे, विविध तीर्थयात्रा, पूजा आणि कार्यक्रमांचे आयोजन करण्यात येते, ज्यामुळे लोक आनंदाने एकत्र येतात आणि आपले संबंध दृढ करतात.

दिवाळीच्या सणाचे सामाजिक महत्त्व मुख्यतः विविध जाती, धर्म आणि संस्कृतींची एकत्रीकरण करण्याच्या क्षमतेवर आहे. या सणात, हिंदू, मुस्लिम, सिख, बौद्ध आणि इतर समाजांचे लोक एकत्र येऊन उत्सव साजरा करतात. हे विविधतेत एकता दर्शवते आणि समाजात सहिष्णुता आणि स्नेहाचा संचार करते. यामुळे, नातेसंबंधांची मजबुती आणि जागतिक एकतेचा संकल्पना साकार होते.

सणाच्या निमित्ताने, लोक आपल्या घरांचे साजशृंगार करतात, वर्तुळाकार महाराज्यांवर आणि मंदिरांवर दिवे लावतात, जे त्याच्या धार्मिक महत्त्वाबरोबरच, सामाजिक साठी देखील महत्त्वाचे आहे. दिवाळीच्या दिवशी, अनेक ठिकाणी भव्य मेळावे, जल्लोष व क्रीडा स्पर्धांचे आयोजन केले जाते, ज्यामुळे लोक एकत्र येऊन आनंद साजरा करू शकतात. शारिरीक आणि मानसिक आध्यात्मिकता वाढविण्यासाठी, यामुळे एक सुखद अनुभव प्राप्त होतो.

दिवाळीचा सण फक्त एक धार्मिक अनुष्ठान नाही, तर तो आपल्या जीवनात सकारात्मकता, आनंद आणि एकतेचा संपूर्ण अनुभव प्रदान करतो. त्यामुळे हे समजून घेणे अत्यंत आवश्यक आहे की दिवाळीच्या उपक्रमात भाग घेणे आणि त्याला अधिक गती देणे प्रत्येकासाठी फायद्याचे असते.

दिवाळीच्या परंपरा आणि सण

दिवाळीचा सण भारतीय संस्कृतीतील एक महत्वाचा पर्व आहे, जो अंधारातून प्रकाशाकडे जाण्याचा संदेश देतो. या सणात विविध परंपरा आणि रितीरिवाजांचे पालन केले जाते, जे विविध समाजाच्या पहिल्या परंपरेशी जोडलेले आहेत. दिवाळीच्या सणासाठी घरे स्वच्छ करणे हे एक मुख्य कार्य असते. या काळात नेहमीपेक्षा अधिक लक्ष देऊन घराची व्यवस्था करण्यात येते, ज्यामुळे घरात सकारात्मक ऊर्जा आणि ताजगी येते.

दिवाळीत रंगरंगोटी देखील महत्त्वाची असते. लोक घराच्या भिंतींना नवीन रंगांनी रंगवतात आणि सजवतात. रंग-बिरंगी Lanterns लावणे हे दृश्यात एक विशेष रंग भरते, जे सर्वत्र आनंद आणि उत्साहाचे वातावरण निर्माण करते. पूजेच्या तयारीसाठी विविध धार्मिक सामग्री एकत्र केली जाते आणि घरातील विविध ठिकाणी मांडली जाते, ज्यामुळे सणाच्या म्हणा आवश्यकतेचा आदर केला जातो.

दिवाळीच्या दारात मिठाई मांडणे हा एक आनंददायक रिवाज आहे. या विशेष दिवशी अनेक प्रकारच्या गोड पदार्थांचा आनंद घेतला जातो, जे आपल्या प्रिय जनांसोबत शेअर केले जातात. काही ठिकाणी फटाक्यांची उडवणूक हा उत्सवाचा एक भाग आहे, तर काही ठिकाणी भव्य उधळले जाणारे फटाके शांततेचा सण म्हणून मानले जातात. यामुळे दिवाळीचा सण प्रत्येक ठिकाणी वेगळ्या प्रकारे साजरा केला जातो, परंतु एकत्रितपणे सगळीकडे आनंद आणि प्रकाशाचे प्रतीक आहे.

दिवाळीच्या शुभेच्छा देणे आणि काही खास वाण्या

दिवाळी, ज्याला ‘दीपावली’ असेही म्हणतात, हा प्रकाश आणि आनंदाचा सण आहे. या सणाच्या निमित्ताने, लोक एकमेकांना ‘दिवाळीच्या हार्दिक शुभेच्छा’ देऊन त्यांचा आनंद आणि एकता व्यक्त करतात. शुभेच्छा देणे केवळ एक प्रथा नाही तर प्रेम, आदर आणि सहकार्याच्या भावना प्रकट करण्याचा एक महत्त्वाचा मार्ग आहे. हा सण एक नवा आरंभ दर्शवतो आणि यामध्ये एकत्र येण्याचे एक उत्तम कारण आहे.

या विशेष दिवशी, गहूची चविष्ट पदार्थ, मिठाई, आणि इतर खास वाण्या एकत्र येतात. लोक त्यांच्या प्रियजनांना मिठाई, चाकल्या, आणि दिवाळीतले पारंपारिक भाज्या व मसाले भेट देण्यासाठी उत्सुक असतात. हे वाणे केवळ खाण्याच्या दृष्टिकोनातून महत्त्वाचे नाहीत, तर हे रंग, स्वरूप आणि चवीतून व्यक्त केलेले प्रेम आणि स्नेहाचे प्रतीक आहेत. ‘दिवाळीच्या हार्दिक शुभेच्छा’ देताना, आपले विचार खूप महत्त्वाचे आहेत, ज्यामुळे आपल्या स्थानिक समुदायात सकारात्मकता वाढवली जाते.

दिवाळीच्या निमित्ताने शुभेच्छा देणे आणि वाण्या सरतेशेवटी लोकांच्या नातेसंबंधांना बळकटी देण्यास मदत करते. नेक कार्यांमुळे संबंध अधिक मजबूत होतात, जे आपल्या सामाजिक जीवनात महत्त्वाचे ठरते. ‘दिवाळीच्या हार्दिक शुभेच्छा’ फक्त शब्दांची एक मालिका नाहीत, तर त्या भावना व मूल्यांची प्रतिकृती आहेत ज्यामुळे आपण सर्व एकत्र येऊन एकत्रितपणे या सणाचा आनंद घेतो.

Due Dates Extended! For MCA, GST & Income Tax

As we move into October 2025, the compliance season is in full swing — with multiple due dates for MCA filings, GST returns, TDS statements, and Tax Audits, all overlapping with the Diwali festive season. At the same time, several representations and court orders have led to extensions or expected relaxations for various filings. Let’s go through all updates and due dates one by one

 1️⃣ MCA — Extension for Annual Filings & DIR-3 KYC

  • The Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) has extended the due date for filing e-Form DIR-3 KYC and web form DIR-3 KYC-WEB without additional fees up to 31st October 2025

✳️ Practical Tip:

✅ File your Director KYC before 31st October to avoid the ₹5,000 late fee.
✅ Companies should also begin preparing their Form AOC-4 (Financial Statements) and MGT-7/MGT-7A (Annual Return), as these are due soon after AGM closure (generally within 30 or 60 days of AGM).

 

 2️⃣ Income Tax — Extension Expected for Audit & ITR Filing

  • Several High Courts have directed the CBDT to extend the due dates for ITR filing for audit cases.

Though official CBDT notification is awaited, these extensions are expected considering the heavy compliance load and technical portal issues.

✳️ Practical Tip:

✅ Don’t wait for the official circular — start finalizing audits and ITRs now.
✅ If notified, file by the new dates to avoid penalty under Section 271B.

 

 3️⃣ GST — Possible Extension for GSTR-3B (September 2025 Period)

  • Professional bodies such as BCAS and ICAI have requested an extension of GSTR-3B filing for the September 2025 period, due to Diwali holidays and the rollout of new GST changes (IMS & refund automation).
  • The government is reportedly considering extending the due date from 20th October 2025 to 25th October 2025.
  • Though not yet officially notified, such extensions around the festive period are quite possible.

✳️ Practical Tip:

✅ File GSTR-1 (Monthly) by 11th October 2025 and Quarterly by 13th October 2025.
✅ Plan GSTR-3B filings early to avoid Diwali-week portal rush.

 

 4️⃣ TDS, TCS & Other Key Compliance Due Dates (October 2025)

📅 Due Date 📘 Compliance
7th October 2025 Deposit of TDS/TCS deducted for September 2025
31st October 2025 DIR-3 KYC & Web KYC (MCA) — Extended date
15th October 2025 TCS Return filing
31st October 2025 Filing of TDS Return for Q2 (Form 24Q/26Q/27Q)
31st October 2025 Filing of Tax Audit Report
20th October 2025 GSTR-3B for September 2025 period
Filing of GSTR-9 and GSTR-9C for FY 2024-25 is now available on the GST Portal

✅ Recent Update

GSTR-9 (Annual Return) and GSTR-9C (Reconciliation Statement) for FY 2024-25 are now available on the GST Portal.

Taxpayers can now file their annual returns and reconciliation statements in line with the updated formats and instructions, which reflect the recent amendments in GST rules and legislation.

The deadline to file both forms, unless an extension is announced, is 31st December 2025.

🆕 GSTR-9 & 9C: Key Modifications for FY 2024-25

The revised forms include multiple updates based on recent amendments and notifications. Let’s go through them step by step:

 

1️⃣ Enhanced ITC Reporting and Reversal Requirements

  • Taxpayers are now required to submit more detailed information regarding Input Tax Credit (ITC).
  • Reversals must be reported separately as per Rules 37, 37A, 38, 42, and 43.

This is intended to enhance reconciliation accuracy and ensure proper tracking of ITC.
👉 Tip: Before submitting, thoroughly check reversal entries, reclaimed credits, and auto-filled data.

2️⃣ New Fields for Import and Transitional Credit Reporting

  • New fields have been introduced for reporting import-related ITC and transitional credits.
  • This promotes greater transparency for businesses importing goods or transferring credits from previous tax regimes.
    👉 Tip: Match your import details with the ICEGATE system and verify accuracy before submission.

3️⃣ Auto-Population of Data and Mismatch Handling

  • The updated forms automatically fetch data from GSTR-1, GSTR-3B, and GSTR-2B.

Several fields will be prefilled to minimize manual mistakes.
However, taxpayers should carefully verify and reconcile all details, as discrepancies may trigger future audits.

👉 Tip: Ensure sales, ITC, and outward supply figures are fully reconciled before filing.

4️⃣Late Fee and Interest Reporting Standardized

  • The revised guidelines mandate clear disclosure of any late fees or interest due under Section 47(2).
  • All filing delays must be reported transparently in the prescribed form.

👉 Tip: Do not use back-dated entries — ensure the actual delay period and corresponding charges are reported accurately.

5️⃣New Instructions with Relevant Rule References

  • The instructions for both GSTR-9 and GSTR-9C have been revised to enhance clarity and ease of understanding.
  • Table references and compliance logic have been simplified to minimize errors in interpretation

👉 Tip: Review the updated instruction sheet before beginning the filing process.

 

Key GST update on GSTR-2B and IMS modifications effective from 1st October 2025

Amidst multiple misleading social media posts regarding significant changes to the GST return system from 1st October 2025, the Goods and Services Tax Network (GSTN) has released a key clarification.
This advisory seeks to clear up confusion about the Invoice Management System (IMS) and its effects on GSTR-2B, GSTR-3B, and the auto-population of Input Tax Credit (ITC)

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📌 1️⃣No Modifications to ITC Auto-Population

GSTN has clearly stated that there is no change in the auto-population of Input Tax Credit (ITC) in GST returns.

The process of auto-populating ITC from GSTR-2B to GSTR-3B will function as it always has.
ITC will continue to be auto-filled based on the invoices uploaded by suppliers in their GSTR-1 filings.
The introduction of the Invoice Management System (IMS) does not impact this auto-population process.

👉 In summary: Taxpayers are not required to manually import ITC data — the system will continue fetching it automatically.

📌 2️⃣GSTR-2B Continues to be Auto-Generated Without Manual Input

GSTN has clarified that GSTR-2B will continue to be auto-generated on the 14th of every month, as is currently the case.

There is no need for taxpayers to manually create or trigger GSTR-2B through the Invoice Management System (IMS).
GSTR-2B will remain an auto-drafted statement, reflecting both eligible and ineligible Input Tax Credit (ITC) based on supplier GSTR-1 filings.

That said, the new IMS will provide taxpayers with enhanced flexibility to manage their invoice data.

🧾 Key actions available in IMS:

  • Accept invoices or mark them as pending

  • Act on credit notes

  • View the reconciliation summary

Even after GSTR-2B is generated, taxpayers can continue to take these actions in IMS until GSTR-3B is filed.
If any updates are made — such as accepting or rejecting invoices or credit notes — GSTR-2B can be regenerated accordingly before submission.

👉 Bottom line: The ITC mechanism remains unchanged, but IMS offers greater control and transparency in handling return data.

📌 3️⃣ New Options for Credit Note Handling Effective October 2025

A major enhancement in Credit Note management will take effect with the introduction of the IMS from the October 2025 tax period.

🧾 Key Highlights:

Greater Control for Recipients:
Recipients will now have the option to keep a credit note or related document in a pending state, rather than being required to act on it immediately.

Flexible ITC Reversal:
Upon accepting a credit note, recipients can choose to reverse Input Tax Credit (ITC) only to the extent that it was actually availed.
This allows for manual adjustment, giving taxpayers more control and precision in calculating ITC.

Purpose of the Change:
This flexibility ensures that recipients don’t have to reverse the entire ITC if only a partial credit was claimed initially.
It helps avoid unnecessary credit loss and better reflects real-world business transactions.

💡 Implications for Taxpayers

✅ No additional effort needed — ITC auto-population and GSTR-2B generation continue unchanged.
✅ Increased flexibility — taxpayers can manage invoices and credit notes in IMS even after GSTR-2B is generated.
✅ Precise credit reversal — recipients can partially reverse ITC based on the actual amount availed.
✅ IMS enhances transparency without adding complexity to the filing process.

⚙️ Practical Example

Scenario:
You claimed an Input Tax Credit (ITC) of ₹8,000 on an invoice, but later the supplier issued a credit note for ₹2,000.
Previously, there was uncertainty about whether you needed to reverse the entire amount.

Starting October 2025 under IMS:

  • You can accept the credit note, and

  • Reverse ITC only proportional to the ₹8,000 actually availed — not the full invoice amount.

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📢 Essential Insights

  • The ITC auto-population process remains unchanged.

  • GSTR-2B will continue to be auto-generated on the 14th of each month.

  • IMS introduces flexibility to review, adjust, and regenerate ITC details before filing GSTR-3B.

  • Credit Note management is enhanced — enabling proportionate ITC reversal and the option to keep notes pending.

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🧮 In Conclusion

The GSTN’s latest advisory reassures taxpayers that the core GST return filing process remains the same, despite IMS integration.
IMS is designed to make the process smarter, not harder — by allowing flexibility and transparency in invoice and ITC management.

Taxpayers are advised to continue filing their returns as usual and use the IMS dashboard for better control and reconciliation.

In summary:

“IMS is not a replacement for GST returns — it’s a smarter way to manage them.”

Updated GST Refund Mechanism to Roll Out from October 2025

Instruction No. 06/2025-GST

In the 56th GST Council Meeting (3 Sept 2025), it was decided that refund processing should be risk-based and system-driven, to speed up genuine cases and flag risky ones.

  • Accordingly, Rule 91(2) of CGST Rules 2017 was amended (via Notification 13/2025-CT dated 17 Sept 2025).
  • From now, 90% of refund can be sanctioned provisionally if the case is low-risk as per system evaluation.

New Rule 91(2) — Provisional Refund based on Risk Score

  • The GST system will automatically classify refund applications as “Low Risk” or “High Risk.”
  • For Low-Risk cases:
    • 90% of the claimed refund will be released provisionally by the officer.
    • No detailed scrutiny required before provisional sanction.
  • For High-Risk cases:
    • Refund will not be sanctioned provisionally.
    • The officer will carry out detailed verification as per Rule 92.

Officer’s Discretion — When Refund Can Be Withheld

Even if a refund is marked low-risk, the proper officer may decide not to issue provisional refund in specific cases, but he must:

  • Record written reasons, and
  • Proceed for detailed scrutiny under Rule 92.

📌 Examples:

  • Past refund issues pending in appeal,
  • Previous SCN issued,
  • Cases under prosecution or fraud detection, etc.

Non-Eligible Persons under Section 54(6)

As per Notification 14/2025-CT (17 Sept 2025), certain categories of taxpayers cannot get provisional refund for zero-rated supplies (exporters).
Also, those under prosecution in last 5 years for evasion > ₹2.5 crore are not eligible for provisional refund.

Systemic Restrictions

  • Once provisional refund is sanctioned, it cannot be adjusted or withheld for any demand or recovery under Section 54(10)/(11).
  • If a case has any pending demand or SCN, officer should process refund on final basis instead of provisional.
  • Provisional refund must be avoided where earlier refund matter is sub-judice or under dispute.

Trade Facilitation — Use of Discretion Sparingly

  • The new system is meant to facilitate trade, not to delay refunds.
  • Therefore, the proviso to Rule 91(2) (officer’s power to deny provisional refund) must be used rarely and only with strong justification, not just for routine scrutiny.

Excess Provisional Refund — Recovery Mechanism

  • If after final scrutiny it’s found that excess refund was given provisionally,
    the officer will issue FORM GST RFD-08 (Show Cause Notice) under Section 54 read with Section 73 / 74 / 74A to recover the excess.

Applicability Date

  • Risk-based provisional refund applies to all refund applications filed on or after 1 October 2025.

Extension to Inverted Duty Refunds (IDS)

  • Earlier, 90% provisional refund was only for zero-rated supplies (exports).
  • Now, GST Council recommended to extend this to Inverted Duty Structure (IDS) refunds too.
  • Formal amendment to Section 54(6) will take time (via next Finance Act + State amendments).
  • So, as interim trade facilitation, the Centre allowed 90% provisional refund for IDS cases filed on or after 1 Oct 2025—same process as exports.

Processing Flow (Para 3.1 to 3.4)

Step-wise:

  1. Refund application filed (RFD-01).
  2. Officer issues Acknowledgment RFD-02 or Deficiency Memo RFD-03 within prescribed timeline.
  3. If marked Low Risk → officer issues Provisional Refund = 90%.
  4. If High Risk → detailed scrutiny → final refund only after full examination.
  5. System will guide officer based on risk score from analytics module.

Supervision & Monitoring

  • Commissioners will supervise proper implementation.
  • Chief Commissioners must ensure that these trade facilitation measures are followed in letter and spirit.
  • Feedback / implementation difficulties to be reported to CBIC GST Policy Wing.

Key Takeaways for Taxpayers / Exporters / CA Professionals

  • ⏱ Faster Refunds for low-risk and compliant taxpayers.
  • 🧾 Automated Risk Score – keep returns accurate, timely and consistent to stay in low-risk category.
  • ⚠️ No Provisional Refund if prosecution, pending SCN or appeal.
  • 📋 IDS Refunds also eligible for 90% provisional refund (temporary relief).
  • 🧠 Officers’ discretion limited – must record reasons if they hold back refund.
  • 🧮 Check refund history before filing — pending cases may affect risk score.
⚠️ Beyond the Investment: What Startup Fundraising Really Costs You

The Real Price of Raising Capital for Startups

Securing capital marks a defining milestone in every startup’s growth path. While attention often gravitates toward the headline valuation and total funds raised, it’s equally important to understand the actual cost of reaching that milestone.

Recognising these expenses isn’t merely about accounting accuracy — it’s about empowering founders to make informed financial and strategic choices.

Each phase of fundraising comes with its own financial commitments, and these must be anticipated well in advance. The reality is that many of these costs are borne by the startup, whether or not the deal eventually materialises. Proper planning helps safeguard liquidity and ensures the company remains financially stable throughout the fundraising journey.

Key Insight

Raising money can be expensive — and if unmanaged, these costs can quietly consume a notable portion of the very funds you aim to secure.

Expenses such as advisory retainers, legal and diligence fees, marketing costs, and months of lost operating focus can add up quickly. Without careful management, these can strain working capital and delay business progress.

Startup Fundraising Expenses

So, what exactly should founders plan and budget for? Let’s break it down.

1. Upfront Advisory Fees and Retainers

The first expense comes from hiring external experts — placement agents, venture advisors, or fundraising consultants. These professionals often charge monthly retainers to structure your raise, prepare materials, and coordinate investor outreach.

As of 2025, retainers generally range between £2,000 and £10,000 per month, lasting up to a year for larger rounds. Additionally, one-time engagement fees of 2%–5% of the fundraising target are often included.

💡 Tip: Always request a clear deliverables list — such as investor meetings or valuation reports — tied directly to any advance payments. Transparency ensures accountability and value.

2. Success Fees or Commissions

Nearly all intermediaries charge a success-based commission, usually between 3%–7% of total funds raised. On a £1 million round, a 5% fee means £50,000 payable upon closing.

Check whether the commission applies to gross commitments or the net received after deductions, and confirm whether it’s due on signing or on fund transfer.

3. Legal & Advisory Costs

Legal counsel is essential for drafting, reviewing, and negotiating term sheets. Expect to spend between £5,000 and £20,000 depending on deal complexity.

In some cases, investors may ask startups to cover a portion of their legal expenses — adding another £10,000 to £30,000. While cutting corners may seem tempting, solid legal advice protects against future liabilities.

4. Due Diligence Expenses

Investors conduct due diligence covering financial audits, IP verification, and compliance checks. While investors lead the process, startups often pay for supporting reports — ranging from £2,000 to £10,000.

Typical reimbursable costs include accounting verification, IP audits, and secure data room setup for document sharing.

5. Marketing & Investor Material Costs

A strong pitch requires professional storytelling. External support for pitch decks, videos, and financial models can cost:

  • Deck design: £1,000–£5,000

  • Investor video: £2,000–£10,000

  • Financial modelling: £1,000–£5,000

Though optional, polished materials can increase investor engagement by 20–30%.

6. Travel & Investor Meetings

Despite digital tools, many investors prefer in-person meetings. Factor in £1,000–£5,000 for travel, accommodation, and event participation.

7. Time & Opportunity Costs

Fundraising can take 3–9 months — time the founder could otherwise spend on customers or product development. This hidden cost often outweighs direct expenses and must be acknowledged in strategic planning.

8. Post-Funding Obligations

Even after funding closes, administrative and investor management costs persist — such as board meetings, statutory filings, and audit requirements. These recurring commitments should be part of your long-term forecast.

Budgeting Smartly for Fundraising

  • List every cost: Treat fundraising as its own project with a detailed budget.

  • Demand transparency: Get written confirmation of all fees and conditions from intermediaries.

  • Negotiate structure: See if retainers can be adjusted against final fees or legal costs capped.

  • Add a buffer: Always include a 10–20% contingency for unforeseen expenses.

Key GST Changes from October 2025 You Should Know | Returns, Credit Notes, IMS & Notices

Several important changes to the GST return ecosystem have been introduced recently and brought live on the GST portal. Together they tighten compliance, increase reliance on system-generated data and the Invoice Management System (IMS), and reduce the scope for late/retroactive corrections. Below is a practical explainer of each change, its implications, and an easy checklist of actions.

 

1) Pending GST returns older than 3 years will be blocked on the portal

GSTN has implemented the statutory three-year bar which prevents filing of GST returns beyond three years from their original due date. This enforcement is being rolled out by tax period and taxpayers are being advised that returns older than three years will become non-fileable on the portal once the validation is active for that tax period. In short: if a return’s due date is more than three years in the past, you will not be able to file it on GSTN once the bar is applied for that tax period.

2) Check your GST portal notices:

Tax authorities are active on older years. In particular, the last date for issuing notices under Section 73 (for certain past years) and Section 74 (for other years involving fraud/intentional evasion) is approaching/has been highlighted for specific years — meaning taxpayers should check portal notices immediately and respond where required. If you have not checked notices for FY 2021-22 (Section 73) or FY 2019-20 (Section 74), you may already have pending show-cause action that requires attention.

 

Check our GST Notice course

3) GSTR-1 → GSTR-3B link tightened: auto-populated 3B / non-editable fields

GSTN has further locked down the relationship between outward supplies reported in GSTR-1 and the summary liabilities reported in GSTR-3B. Values auto-populated from supplier filings will populate GSTR-3B and, for many tables, the taxpayer will not be able to edit those auto-populated figures directly in 3B. Corrections will have to be made via the supplier’s subsequent amendments (or through the prescribed amendment flow), not by free edits in the return. This step is intended to reduce manipulations and mismatches

Practical impact: Buyers must ensure their suppliers file GSTR-1 accurately and on time because once the data feeds into 3B it will be locked. Any mismatch will take longer to correct and could delay or deny ITC until corrected by the supplier.

4) GSTR-2B / IMS: GSTR-2B is now a taxpayer-generated statement via IMS — IMS is central to claiming ITC

The traditional notion of an “auto-generated” GSTR-2B statement is changing: taxpayers will rely more on the Invoice Management System (IMS) to generate and manage the ITC-relevant draft, perform matching, accept/reject invoices, and recompute the ITC position. The IMS now provides a controlled workflow — taxpayers can regenerate GSTR-2B-like reports based on actions taken in IMS rather than passively waiting for a portal report. Because of this, IMS records and actions (accept/reject/mark pending/enter ITC availed) are becoming the authoritative source for ITC claims and reconciliations.

Practical impact: Maintain disciplined IMS practices: reconcile invoices, accept only genuine supplies, and keep IMS comments/evidence. IMS snapshots may become crucial evidence during assessments.

5) Credit notes — recipient reversal of ITC now mandatory in proportion; IMS changes to assist reversal

Where suppliers issue credit notes that reduce taxable value or tax, recipients who have already availed ITC on the original invoice are required to reverse the ITC to the extent it was availed (i.e., reversal only to the extent of ITC actually used; if no ITC was taken, no reversal is needed). IMS has been enhanced to allow recipients to declare the exact ITC availed and reverse only that portion — and suppliers and recipients must coordinate via IMS actions. IMS will reflect amended credit note data and recompute recipients’ ITC accordingly.

Practical impact: Recipients must (a) track ITC availed at invoice level, (b) be ready to reverse only the utilized portion when a credit note is issued, and (c) act promptly on IMS notifications to avoid wrong ITC balances.

6) GSTR-7 (TDS Return) now requires invoice-wise reporting

Form GSTR-7 (the return for tax deductors under TDS provisions of GST) has been updated to require invoice-levelreporting rather than summarized figures. The GSTN portal has enabled invoice-wise filing functionality for GSTR-7 and deductors should prepare invoice-level TDS details for the relevant tax periods. This increase in granularity is meant to improve reconciliation between deductors and suppliers.

Practical impact: TDS deductors (platforms, government departments, etc.) must ensure their systems can provide invoice-level TDS details. Manual or summary reporting is no longer adequate.

Other system & procedural changes you should note

  • Non-editable auto-populated fields in 3B: The move to auto-populate and lock certain tables in GSTR-3B (from supplier GSTR-1 data) increases the importance of first-time accuracy.
  • IMS recordability: IMS now supports comments, pending flags, and better audit trail — use these features to create a defensible record.
  • Partial ITC reversal treatment: If only part of ITC was used, reversal is limited to that used portion; if no ITC was taken on that invoice, no reversal required. This is reflected in IMS logic.

What this means for taxpayers — practical scenarios

Scenario A — You are a buyer who claimed full ITC and supplier issues a credit note later:
You must reverse the ITC equal to the amount you actually availed (not necessarily the full ITC on the invoice) via IMS actions so your GSTR-2B/GSTR-3B position is correct.

Scenario B — You are a supplier and you issued corrected invoices/credit notes:
Your liability reduces in your outward returns, but unless the recipient acts on IMS, their ITC position might not get adjusted automatically. Coordinate via IMS and ensure records are synced.

 

Scenario C — You rely on old, delayed filings to fix mismatches:
With the three-year bar live, you cannot indefinitely rely on belated filings. If certain historical returns become barred, unresolved mismatches may remain and can trigger notices.

Checklist: Immediate steps for businesses & professionals

  1. Reconcile urgently: Reconcile GSTR-1 vs books vs buyer acknowledgements and clear pending mismatches via supplier follow-ups and IMS actions.
  2. Check GST portal notices: Regularly review notices for FY 2019-20 and FY 2021-22 periods, and respond promptly where required.
  3. Use IMS actively: Accept/reject invoices, record ITC availed at invoice level, and keep a log of IMS actions for audit trail.
  4. Prepare for locked 3B fields: Do not rely on being able to edit 3B later — ensure GSTR-1 accuracy and preserve proof of reconciliations.
  5. Plan for credit-note reversals: Track how much ITC you actually used for each invoice; be ready to reverse accordingly.
  6. For TDS deductors (GSTR-7): Ready your systems to capture invoice-level details; review past months’ records to avoid omission.
GST Amendments Coming into Force from 1 October 2025

New GST Rate changes of Various Goods and services are already made effective from 22 September 2025, for which below notifications are issued:

Number Date Subject Download
17/2025-Central Tax (Rate) 17-Sep-2025 Seeks to amend Notification No 17/2017-Central Tax (Rate), dated 28th June, 2017 to implement the recommendations of the 56th GST Council English
हिन्दी
16/2025-Central Tax (Rate) 17-Sep-2025 Seeks to amend Notification No 12/2017-Central Tax (Rate dated 28th June, 2017 to implement the recommendations of the 56th GST Council. English
हिन्दी
15/2025-Central Tax (Rate) 17-Sep-2025 Seeks to amend Notification No 11/2017 – Central Tax (Rate) dated 28th June, 2017 to implement the recommendations of the 56th GST Council. English
हिन्दी
14/2025-Central Tax (Rate) 17-Sep-2025 Seeks to notify GST rate for bricks. English
हिन्दी
13/2025-Central Tax (Rate) 17-Sep-2025 Seeks to amend Notification No. 21/2018- Central Tax (Rate) dated 26.07.2018. English
हिन्दी
12/2025-Central Tax (Rate) 17-Sep-2025 Seeks to amend Notification No. 8/2018- Central Tax (Rate) dated 25.01.2018. English
हिन्दी
11/2025-Central Tax (Rate) 17-Sep-2025 Seeks to amend Notification No. 3/2017- Central Tax (Rate) dated 28.06.2017. English
हिन्दी
10/2025-Central Tax (Rate) 17-Sep-2025 Seeks to supersede Notification No. 2/2017- Central Tax (Rate) dated 28.06.2017. English
हिन्दी
Corrigendum 18-Sep-2025 Corrigendum to Notification No. 10/2025 – Central Tax (Rate) dated 17.09.2025 हिन्दी
09/2025-Central Tax (Rate) 17-Sep-2025 Seeks to supersede Notification No. 1/2017- Central Tax (Rate) dated 28.06.2017. English
हिन्दी

Now from 1st October 2025 below more changes are going to be applicable:

The Finance Act, 2025 introduced several amendments in the GST law. The Government has notified that certain sections will be brought into effect from 1 October 2025 through Notification No. 16/2025–Central Tax dated 17 September 2025. Along with this, GSTN has rolled out some major changes in the return filing system and compliance framework.

Activation of Finance Act, 2025 Provisions

From 1 October 2025, the following provisions of the Finance Act, 2025 will come into force:

New Provisions of FA 2025

  • FA Sec. 121 (ii): This section amends Section 2(69) of the CGST Act, which defines “local authority.” The practical effect is to align the definition with the constitutional usage, which helps avoid any overlap or misinterpretation.
  • FA Sec. 121 (iii): This provision introduces a new definition, Section 2(116A), for “Unique Identification Marking.” This new legal basis is crucial for the upcoming “track & trace” regime for goods.
  • FA Sec. 122 & 123: These sections completely omit Section 12(4) and Section 13(4), which previously governed the time of supply for vouchers. This means that the supply of vouchers is now subject to the general time-of-supply rules, simplifying compliance and aligning with global GST practices.
  • FA Sec. 124: This amendment retrospectively changes the wording in Section 17(5)(d) from “plant or machinery” to “plant and machinery.” The purpose of this change is to retroactively nullify the Supreme Court’s order in the Safari Retreat Case, clarifying the scope of what is covered.
  • FA Sec. 126: Amendments to Section 34 aim to streamline reporting by introducing changes to the provisions for credit and debit notes. These changes are linked to the new GSTR formats.
  • FA Sec. 127: A new framework is established under Section 38 for the communication of inward supplies, giving legal recognition to auto-drafted statements like GSTR-2B.
  • FA Sec. 128: Changes to the monthly return filing under Section 39 (GSTR-3B) will enable stronger invoice-matching and error correction processes.
  • FA Sec. 129 & 130: Amendment in section 107 & 112 for 10% pre deposit amount requirement
  • FA Sec. 131: After section 122A of the Central Goods and Services Tax Act, the following section shall be inserted, namely:—
  • “122B. Penalty for failure to comply with track and trace mechanism.—Notwithstanding anything contained in this Act, where any person referred to in clause (b) of sub-section (1) of section 148A acts in contravention of the provisions of the said section, he shall, in addition to any penalty under Chapter XV or the provisions of this Chapter, be liable to pay a penalty equal to an amount of one lakh rupees or ten per cent. of the tax payable on such goods, whichever is higher.”.
  • FA Sec.132: Insertion of new section 148A.
    132. After section 148 of the Central Goods and Services Tax Act, the following section shall be inserted, namely:—
    “148A. Track and trace mechanism for certain goods.—(1) The Government may, on the recommendations of the Council, by notification, specify,—
    (a) the goods;
    (b) persons or class of persons who are in possession or deal with such goods,
    to which the provisions of this section shall apply.
    (2) The Government may, in respect of the goods referred to in clause (a) of sub-section (1),—
    (a) provide a system for enabling affixation of unique identification marking and for electronic storage and access of information contained therein, through such persons, as may be prescribed; and
    (b) prescribe the unique identification marking for such goods, including the information to be recorded therein.
    (3) The persons referred to in sub-section (1), shall,—
    (a) affix on the said goods or packages thereof, a unique identification marking, containing such information and in such manner;
    (b) furnish such information and details within such time and maintain such records or documents, in such form and manner;
    (c) furnish details of the machinery installed in the place of business of manufacture of such goods, including the identification, capacity, duration of operation and such other details or information, within such time and in such form and manner;
    (d) pay such amount in relation to the system referred to in sub-section (2),
    as may be prescribed.”.
  • FA Sec. 133 & 134: These sections clarify the refund framework by restricting refunds on warehoused goods in Special Economic Zones (SEZ) and Free Trade Warehousing Zones (FTWZ). This change is intended to tighten compliance and prevent fraudulent refund claims.

Invoice-wise Reporting in GSTR-7 (TDS Return)

  • GSTR-7 has been amended to allow invoice-wise reporting.
  • Starting from the September 2025 return (due on 10 October 2025), deductors must furnish invoice-wise TDS details.
  • This ensures better transparency and easier reconciliation for suppliers and tax authorities.

Action Point: Deductors must collect invoice-wise details and update their systems accordingly.

Three-Year Time Bar on GST Return Filing

  • Returns under Sections 37, 39, 44, and 52 of the CGST Act cannot be filed after three years from their due date.
  • From October 2025 onwards, the GST portal will block filing of such returns.

Example:

  • GSTR-1 or GSTR-3B of September 2022 will become time-barred in October 2025.
  • Annual returns (GSTR-9/9C) for FY 2020-21 will also be time-barred.

Action Point: File all pending returns immediately before the three-year limit expires.

Changes in Invoice Management System (IMS)

GSTN has simplified IMS with effect from October 2025 tax period. Key features include:

  • Records can be kept “pending” for one period in case of amendments or corrections.
  • Taxpayers can declare partial ITC reversal instead of full reversal.
  • Option to save remarks for rejected or pending records, visible to both supplier and recipient.
  • Applicable only for records filed after rollout.

Impact: This will reduce reconciliation disputes and improve clarity in ITC claims.

Other Changes:

Number Date Subject Download
16/2025-Central Tax 17-Sep-2025 Seeks to notify clauses (ii), (iii) of section 121, section 122 to section 124 and section 126 to 134 of Finance Act, 2025 to come into force. English
हिन्दी
15/2025-Central Tax 17-Sep-2025 Seeks to exempt taxpayer with annual turnover less than Rs 2 Crore from filing annual return. English
हिन्दी
14/2025-Central Tax 17-Sep-2025 Seeks to notify category of persons under section 54(6). English
हिन्दी
13/2025-Central Tax 17-Sep-2025 Seeks to notify the Central Goods and Services Tax (Third Amendment) Rules 2025. English
हिन्दी
New Functionality for Invoice-wise Reporting Now Available on GST Portal

Date: 26th September 2025

The Goods and Services Tax Network (GSTN) has notified that the invoice-wise reporting functionality in Form GSTR-7 is now live on the GST portal. This update is in line with Notification No. 09/2025 – Central Tax dated 11th February 2025, which amended Form GSTR-7 to enable capture of invoice-wise reporting of Tax Deducted at Source (TDS) under GST.

🔎 What is Form GSTR-7?

Form GSTR-7 is a monthly return filed by TDS deductors under GST. It contains details of:

  • GST deducted at source on payments made to suppliers,
  • The TDS liability payable and paid, and
  • Details of TDS deducted available for suppliers to claim in their Electronic Cash Ledger.

Until now, the reporting in GSTR-7 was summary-based, i.e., deductors provided consolidated details of TDS.

🆕 What Has Changed?

With the amendment and the new functionality:

  • Invoice-wise reporting has become mandatory in GSTR-7.
  • Deductors will now be required to enter invoice-level details on which TDS has been deducted.
  • This ensures greater accuracy, transparency, and easy reconciliation for suppliers.

📅 Effective Date

  • The functionality is operational from the September 2025 tax period.
  • This means while filing Form GSTR-7 for September 2025 onwards, deductors must provide invoice-wise reporting.
  • The due date for filing GSTR-7 for September 2025 is 10th October 2025.

✅ What Deductors Should Do

  • Collect and prepare invoice-wise data of all payments on which GST TDS has been deducted.
  • Ensure proper matching of invoice details with suppliers’ GST invoices.
  • Upload invoice-wise TDS details while filing GSTR-7 from September 2025 onwards.

⚠️ Issues & Grievance Redressal

In case of any technical difficulty in filing, deductors can:

  • Raise a grievance through the Self-Service Portal on the GST portal.
  • Provide complete details (error screenshots, GSTIN, period, invoice details, etc.) to enable quick resolution by GSTN.

📌 Key Takeaway

From September 2025 return period onwards, invoice-wise reporting is mandatory in GSTR-7. Deductors must gear up their systems and processes to ensure compliance, as this will bring enhanced transparency and benefit both deductors and suppliers by reducing mismatches in TDS reporting.

CBIC Launches New Tool to Validate DIN of eOffice Communications Using Issue Number

Circular No. 252/09/2025 – GST | Dated 23rd September 2025

The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) has issued Circular No. 252/09/2025-GST to streamline the process of validating communications issued through CBIC’s eOffice platform. This update reduces duplication and simplifies verification for taxpayers, businesses, and stakeholders.

🔑 Key Background

  • Earlier, CBIC mandated quoting of Document Identification Number (DIN) on all communications (Circulars 122/41/2019 & 128/47/2019).
  • Later, Circular No. 249/06/2025 clarified that where communications on the GST common portal carried a verifiable Reference Number (RFN), a separate DIN was not required.
  • Until now, communications issued through CBIC’s eOffice system also required a DIN because there was no mechanism to verify the automatically generated “Issue Number.”

🆕 What Has Changed?

With the release of this circular, CBIC has announced:

  1. Online Verification Utility Launched
    • A new tool at https://verifydocument.cbic.gov.in allows taxpayers to verify Issue Numbers generated in eOffice.
    • Verification provides details like:
      • File number
      • Date of issue
      • Type of communication
      • Issuing office name
      • Recipient details (masked for privacy)
  2. Issue Number = DIN (for eOffice communications)
    • For communications dispatched using public option in eOffice, the automatically generated Issue Numberwill now be deemed as the Document Identification Number (DIN).
    • A separate DIN need not be generated in such cases.
  3. DIN Still Mandatory in Other Cases
    • DIN must continue to be quoted where:
      • Communication is not dispatched via eOffice’s public option.
      • Communication does not carry an RFN from GST common portal.

📝 Compliance Instructions for CBIC Officers

  • While drafting documents in eOffice, officers must correctly fill metadata (document type, recipient name, address, and email).
  • The issuing office name will auto-populate from the system.
  • Accuracy in metadata is essential, as these details will be used for online verification.

📌 Modifications to Previous Circulars

This circular modifies earlier directions to the extent noted:

  • Circular No. 122/41/2019-GST (05 Nov 2019)
  • Circular No. 128/47/2019-GST (23 Dec 2019)
  • Circular No. 249/06/2025-GST (09 June 2025)

Now, eOffice Issue Numbers are considered valid DINs, removing redundancy.

📊 Practical Example for Businesses

Example 1: Communication via GST Portal

  • A taxpayer receives an order via GST common portal with RFN.
  • ✅ RFN is sufficient. No DIN is required.

Example 2: Communication via eOffice (Public Option)

  • A taxpayer gets a notice from CBIC eOffice with Issue Number.
  • ✅ The taxpayer can verify this at CBIC’s new utility. DIN is not separately needed.

Example 3: Email/Letter Not via Portal or eOffice

  • A taxpayer receives an email/letter without RFN or eOffice Issue Number.
  • ❌ A valid DIN must be quoted on such communication.

📢 Impact on Taxpayers & Businesses

  • Simplified verification of CBIC communications.
  • Reduced duplication of DIN and Issue Numbers.
  • Stronger safeguards against fraudulent or unauthenticated notices.

✅ Conclusion

Circular No. 252/09/2025 is a step towards ease of doing business by eliminating duplicate identification requirements and offering a simple online utility for verification. From now onwards, taxpayers can rely on the eOffice Issue Numberitself as a valid DIN for authenticity of communications.