Deep Diving into the GST EmSigner
If you are considering running a business under the Goods and Services Tax (GST) regime, you need to know about the GST emSigner.
What is an emSigner?
In a nutshell, a GST emSigner is a Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) based on the web that allows you to digitally sign legally binding documents. It is much more efficient and effective than the conventional means of signing documents as it streamlines, simplifies, and secures the signing process.
You are not required to install extra external hardware to make use of this SaaS. You should have no problem accessing this on web browsers like Google Chrome, Firefox, Opera, and so on. The added advantage of the emSigner is that it leaves no digital footprints.
What some of the emSigner’s features?
Here are some essential features of the emSigner for GST:
Watermarking
You are allowed to add watermarks to vital documents, hence protecting them from other entities who try to pass these documents on as their own.
eVault Services
The emSigner sports an eVault feature that allows you to encrypt and decrypt essential business documents.
API Integrations
The emSigner lets you incorporate the functionalities for document signing into your company’s existing systems.
Assisted template creation
The emSigner provides you with ready-to-use workflow templates that are tailor-made for your business.
White labeling
Here’s another feature worth noting. You have the benefit of customizing your signer page to allow your company logo and brand to stand out amongst the noise.
Time-Stamping Services
The emSigner allows you the licensed time-stamping authority to eliminate the backdating of signed documents.
How am I supposed to install the emSigner?
Installing the emSigner is a reasonably straightforward process. Here is how you do it:
- You need to begin by visiting the GST website: https://www.gst.gov.in
- Then, visit the Register/Update DSC link.
- You should be able to spot the ‘Register Digital Signature Certificate’ page. Select the ‘Click here for instructions on installing signer utility‘
- After this, you should find the ‘Document Signer Install’ page. Select the ‘Click here to download’ link to download the version that works for your operating system.
- Once you download the emSigner.msi file, install it in a separate folder, start the .exe file as the administrator of the system, kickstart the application, and you should have no problem using it.
What are the types of GST returns I need to know about?
These are the types of GST returns that you will have to file:
GSTR-1
The GSTR-1 is a monthly GST return that displays the details of the outward supplies of goods and services.
GSTR-2
The GSTR-2 GST return shows you the details of all the inward supplies of services and goods. This return was a monthly return. However, this return no longer needs to be filed.
GSTR-3
The GSTR-3 monthly return requires you to confirm the outward and inward supply details along with the tax payment. This return is also suspended.
GSTR-3B
The GSTR-3B is a simple, monthly GST return that shows you the summary of the outward supply details as well as the Input Tax Credit and payment of tax.
GSTR-4
The GSTR-4 GST return is imposed during every quarter of the year on taxpayers who are registered under the GST Composition Scheme.
GSTR-5
GSTR-5 is a GST return that a non-resident or foreign taxpayer needs to file every month.
GSTR-6
The GSTR-6 return requires input service distributors to file it every month.
GSTR-7
This return concerns authorities who deduct TDS (Tax Deducted at Source) on a monthly basis.
GSTR-8
This GSTR-8 return displays the supplies that were affected by the e-commerce operator and the amount of tax collected every month.
GSTR-9
A normal taxpayer needs to file the GSTR-9 return annually.
GSTR-9A
Taxpayers who are registered to the GST composition have to file this GST return annually at any point during the financial year.
GSTR-10
The GSTR-10 return should be filed once on the off chance that the GST registration gets canceled.
GSTR-11
The GSTR-11 monthly return outlines the details of inward supplies that need to be furnished by a taxpayer bearing a Unique Identification Number (UIN) who wants to claim a refund.
