Chapter: 3.6 Time Limits of Service Tax

Time Limits

Registration

Within 30 days from the date on which service tax is levied or within 30 days of commencement of business of providing a taxable service, whichever is later.

Payment of Service Tax

By individuals, proprietary firms and partnership firms:

Payable on amount received during the quarter                    Payable By
1st April to 30th June                                                         5th July
1st July to 30th September                                                 5th October
1st October to 31st December                                           5th January
1st January to 31st March                                                  31st March

•    Service tax is payable on receipt basis and not on provision (or accrual) basis. Service tax is not payable on services provided free of charge.
•    From 1st October, 2006,, the assessee who has paid service tax of Rs. 50 lakhs or more in preceding or in the current financial year is required to deposit service tax electronically through internet banking.
•    The returns for all categories can be filed electronically. The return may be revised within 60 days from date of submission of original return. A NIL return is also required to be filed.