Filing a GST Return in Singapore is a legal obligation for all GST-registered businesses. It ensures you report your taxable transactions to the Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore (IRAS), pay what you owe, and claim the input tax you’re entitled to.
Though the process may seem complex at first, with the right guidance, tools, and systems in place, it can become a straightforward routine. This guide provides a detailed overview of the entire process so you can confidently file your GST return without stress or errors.
Why GST Return Filing Matters for Your Business
When you file your GST return on time and accurately, it helps ensure:
- Regulatory Compliance – Avoid costly penalties and interest charges.
- Proper Cash Flow Management – Helps businesses track and manage their net GST obligations effectively.
- Operational Transparency – Establishes a clear audit trail for tax authorities and business partners.
- Eligibility for Refunds – Businesses with more input tax than output tax may be eligible for refunds.
Who Must File a GST Return in Singapore?
GST-registered businesses must file a GST Return in Singapore at the end of every prescribed accounting period, which is usually quarterly. You must file a return even if:
- No business transactions occurred during the period (zero or nil return is still mandatory).
- You’re voluntarily registered and have not yet begun operations.
The filing obligation begins from your effective GST registration date and continues until your registration is cancelled.
GST Filing Deadlines
GST returns are due one month after the end of each accounting period. For quarterly filings, the schedule looks like this:
- January – March → Due by 30 April
- April – June → Due by 31 July
- July – September → Due by 31 October
- October – December → Due by 31 January
Late submissions attract automatic penalties, regardless of whether GST is payable or refundable.
Filing Frequency Options
Most businesses file quarterly by default. However, monthly filing is allowed if approved by IRAS, and can be beneficial if:
- You have significant input tax and want faster refunds
- You manage high transaction volumes
Businesses should assess their cash flow needs and compliance capabilities before choosing monthly filing.
How to File Your GST Return in Singapore: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Assign GST Filing Access via CorpPass
Before filing begins, ensure your staff or accountant has the right access on CorpPass. Assign the appropriate e-Service roles for preparing and approving returns.
For sole proprietors, SingPass can be used directly.
Step 2: Login to myTax Portal
Once access is granted:
- Go to the IRAS myTax Portal
- Log in using CorpPass or SingPass
- Navigate to GST > File GST Return (F5)
The “F5” return form is the standard GST submission form in Singapore.
Step 3: Prepare GST Data – Output Tax
Input all sales and revenue-related transactions in the GST F5 form, including:
- Standard-rated supplies (subject to 9% GST)
- Zero-rated supplies (exports, international services)
- Exempt supplies (e.g. financial services, sale of residential properties)
Ensure your total output tax is calculated correctly based on taxable supplies.
Step 4: Prepare GST Data – Input Tax
Next, declare GST paid on purchases and expenses eligible for input tax claims, such as:
- Supplier invoices with GST
- Business overheads (utilities, software, office supplies)
- Imports (via GIRO-linked import permits)
Ensure each input tax claim is supported by a valid tax invoice and directly relates to your business activities.
Step 5: Declare the Net GST Position
The system will automatically compute:
Net GST = Output Tax – Input Tax
- If positive: You need to make payment to IRAS.
- If negative: You may be entitled to a refund.
This is where accurate data entry matters the most. A mistake here can result in overpayments, penalties, or delays in refunds.
Step 6: Review and Submit the Return
Double-check all fields for accuracy:
- Supply amounts match your accounting records
- Input tax claims are valid and substantiated
- Period selected is correct
- Contact and bank details are updated for refund processing
Once reviewed, submit the return. An acknowledgment receipt will be generated. Save this for future reference or audit trails
Step 7: Make Payment to IRAS
Payment must be made by the same due date as the GST return submission. Payment methods include:
- GIRO (automatic deduction)
- FAST/PayNow via Internet Banking
- AXS stations
- Cheque (less preferred)
GIRO is the most efficient and preferred method. Late payments incur a 5% penalty immediately and an additional 2% per month thereafter, capped at 50%.
What If You Made a Mistake?
Mistakes in GST returns are common, especially for first-time filers. If an error is discovered after filing:
- Use GST Form F7 to revise previous returns
- Submit it via myTax Portal within 5 years from the affected period
- If the error resulted in excess tax claimed or underpaid tax, interest and penalties may apply
Voluntary disclosure is encouraged and can reduce penalties.
What Happens If You Don’t File?
Non-compliance carries serious consequences:
- A late filing penalty of S$200 per month, up to a maximum of S$10,000
- 5% late payment penalty, plus 2% per month if not settled within 60 days
- Legal enforcement or garnishment actions if outstanding obligations continue
Repeated offences may also affect your business’s reputation and credit rating.
Best Practices to File Your GST Return Correctly
Use GST-Compliant Accounting Software
Software like Xero, QuickBooks, and MYOB help you automate GST calculations, generate summary reports, and reduce manual entry errors.
Set Calendar Reminders
Use digital calendars or software reminders to stay ahead of due dates. Assign responsibility clearly within your team.
Reconcile Your Accounts Monthly
Don’t wait until the end of the quarter. Reconcile sales and purchase records monthly so you don’t run into surprises at filing time.
Keep GST Documentation in Order
Retain invoices, receipts, permits, and contracts for at least 5 years. These may be requested during an IRAS audit or GST refund review.
GST Schemes You Should Know
Depending on your business activities, the following schemes could impact how you file your GST return or manage your tax payments:
- Import GST Deferment Scheme (IGDS): Defer GST payment at point of import
- Gross Margin Scheme: Applies to second-hand goods sellers
- Major Exporter Scheme (MES): Reduces GST cash flow impact on exports
- Zero-Rating for International Services: GST-exempt services rendered overseas
Make sure to apply for or comply with scheme conditions if relevant to your business model.
GST Deregistration and Final Returns
If you cease operations or no longer meet the registration threshold, you must apply for GST deregistration. Upon approval:
- File a Final GST Return (F8)
- Report any outstanding tax liabilities or assets
- Retain GST records for at least 5 years even after closure
Failure to file the final return on time can lead to similar penalties as regular GST returns.
Digital Filing Integration Options
IRAS now supports API-based GST filing through selected accounting software providers. This allows businesses to file GST returns directly from their systems to IRAS, reducing human error and saving time.
While not mandatory, it’s a future-proof approach that many growing businesses adopt as their operations scale.
How Ease to Compliance Can Help
At Ease to Compliance, we understand that GST filing can be tedious and risky especially if you’re managing multiple clients, suppliers, currencies, or tax schemes.
Our firm help businesses of all sizes in Singapore with:
- Accurate preparation and submission of GST returns
- Timely filing with reminders and auto-tracking
- Review of input/output tax claims to avoid penalties
- Full support for Form F7 revisions and audit readiness
- Setup and integration of GIRO and compliant accounting systems
Whether you’re filing your first return or recovering from past errors, our experts ensure you meet your obligations with zero stress.
Conclusion
Filing your GST Return in Singapore is more than just a compliance task it’s a reflection of your company’s financial responsibility and operational transparency. By understanding the steps, avoiding common mistakes, and leveraging expert support, you can stay compliant, maintain good standing with IRAS, and optimize your tax management.
If you’re unsure where to start, or you’ve made filing mistakes in the past, don’t wait. Let Ease to Compliance guide you through a seamless and accurate GST filing process.
FAQs on GST Return in Singapore
Question 1. Can I file GST returns manually instead of using the myTax Portal?
Answer: No, GST returns must be filed electronically through the IRAS myTax Portal or via approved accounting software with direct API integration.
Question 2. Do I need to file a GST return if my business made no sales or purchases during the period?
Answer: Yes, you are still required to file a nil GST return for the period, even if there were no transactions.
Question 3. Can I change my GST filing frequency from quarterly to monthly?
Answer: Yes, you can apply to IRAS to change your filing frequency, but it must be approved and typically suits businesses with high input tax or frequent transactions.
