Saturday, December 31, 2016

CA can't exercise lien over client's documents for nonpayment of fees

As per decision of Ethical Standard Board (ESB) of ICAI, A chartered accountant cannot exercise lien over the client documents/records for non-payment of his fees. In this regards section 170 of the Indian Contract Act, 1872 reads as under: "Bailee's particular lien - Where the bailee has, in accordance with the purpose of the bailment, rendered any service involving the exercise of labour or skill in respect of the goods bailed, he has, in the absence of a contract to the contrary, a right to retain such goods until he receives due remuneration for the services he has rendered in respect of them.

Illustrations

(A) A delivers a rough diamond to B, a jeweller, to be cut and polished, which is accordingly done. B is entitled to retain the stone till he is paid for the services he has rendered.

(B) A gives cloth to B, a tailor, to make into a coat, B promises A to deliver the coat as soon as it is finished, and to give a three months' credit for the price, B is not entitled to retain the coat until he is paid." [Emphasis supplied]

The above view is based on the general principles of law under which any person having lawful possession of someone else's property may retain the property for non-payment of his dues. As section 170 uses the words 'goods' and not the word 'property' and as client's books of account and papers are not 'goods', lien under section 170, will not be available to lawyers/CAs/CWAs/CSs.

Therefore, withholding books and papers of the client for unpaid fees appears to be not legally tenable and even amounts to professional misconduct.


Tax collection isn’t valid if made from ‘tax illiterate person’ due to ignorance of law: ITAT

Facts
(a) The assessee filed return of income which was picked up for scrutiny where he was required to explain the deposits in his saving bank account. The AO made additions on account of unexplained cash deposits.

(b) The CIA (A) upheld the addition made by AO without considering fresh evidences filed by assessee. Evidences were considered as not admissible by the Commissioner (Appeals). Since as per record, no application seeking admission of fresh evidences under rule 46A was filed. ITAT held as under:

(1) The tax so collected on the foundation of the ignorances of a 'tax illiterate tax payer' could not be termed to be a collection of either 'just' nor 'due' taxes collected by the State in accordance with law. The assessee represented by an equally ignorant counsel, should have been appropriately guided by the First Appellate Authority. The fact that the Commissioner (Appeals) while exercising his discretion refused to admit evidence inspite of sufficient cause being shown as a matter of record was unwarranted and arbitrary.

(2) Since in the facts of the instant case due to his wife's illness the assessee was prevented by sufficient cause from producing the evidences in support of his claim, the impugned order was set aside and the issue to be restored back to the Commissioner (Appeals) with a direction to permit the assessee to produce the evidences in support of his claim.

Govt. approves ordinance, proposes jail term for people holding old notes

The Union Cabinet has approved an ordinance to impose penalty and a jail term for people holding demonetized notes of Rs 5,00 and 1,000. Only specified category of people will be allowed to keep demonetized notes. However, anyone can possess 10 old notes of Rs 5,00 or Rs 1,000 denominations.

The Government has prescribed penalty equivalent to higher of Rs 50,000 or five times of the amount of demonetized notes. The Union Cabinet has also approved an ordinance to amend RBI Act to extinguish the liability of the Government and Central bank on demonetized notes. The deadline for deposit of demonetized notes in banks is December 30, 2016. Thus, the ordinance should be cleared by the President before December 30, 2016.

(This document is prepared on basis of information gathered from sources.)

Benefit of vacancy allowance would be available even when house is under renovation: Bangalore ITAT

Facts:
a) The Assessing Officer proposed to assess the annual letting value of the flat. The assessee has submitted that flats were vacant and therefore even if Annual Letting Value (ALV) has to be assessed, the vacancy allowance should be allowed. The Assessing Officer before the CIT (Appeals). The CIT (Appeals) confirmed the addition made by the Assessing Officer The aggrieved-assessee filed the instant appeal.

The Tribunal held in favour of assessee as under:

1. The assessee has explained that the house was under renovation and therefore, it could not be let out during the year under consideration. Further it was not intentionally kept vacant by the assessee. Thus, vacancy of the house was beyond the control of the assessee and, therefore, the benefit of vacancy is available to the assessee as per the provisions of section 23(1)(c).

2. The process of letting out may take some time in searching the suitable tenant and for settling the terms and conditions of the letting out. Therefore, even if it is presumed that the house is ready for occupation if it is not intentionally kept vacant by the assessee then it cannot be presumed that the assessee has deliberately not let out the house during the year under consideration.

3. Thus, the addition made by the Assessing Officer was to be deleted. - [2016] 76 taxmann.com 278 (Bangalore - Trib.)

Tuesday, December 27, 2016

CBDT issues clarifications on ‘Direct Tax Dispute Resolution Scheme, 2016

The Direct Tax Dispute Resolution Scheme, 2016 incorporated as Chapter X of the Finance Act,
2016 provides an opportunity to tax payers who are under litigation to come forward and
settle the dispute. The provisions of the Scheme have been clarified vide Circular No.33 of 2016
dated 12.09.2016. Subsequently, further queries have been received from the field authorities
and other stakeholders. Now the Govt. has considered the queries and decided to clarify the
same in the form of questions and answers.

Click here to view clarifications on ‘Dispute Resolution Scheme, 2016’

Sellers shouldn’t aggregate all cash transactions to consider Rs 2 lakh limit of AIR reporting: CBDT

Provisions of Rule 114E(2) provides that persons liable to tax audit should report transaction of cash sales of goods or services to Income-Tax Department in AIR. Such reporting requirement is there only when receipt of cash payment exceeds two lakh rupees. Doubts were raised whether all cash transactions would be aggregated to consider the aforesaid limit of Rs 2 lakhs.

The CBDT vide Press Release, dated 22-12-2016 has clarified that aforesaid cash transactions did not require aggregation.The reporting requirement in AIR is on receipt of cash payment exceeding Rs 2 lakh for sale of goods or services per transaction.

Editor’s comment:

Seller is required to report details of cash sales in AIR only when transaction value of such sales exceeds Rs 2 lakhs. Suppose, if any seller has made cash sales of 20 transactions at Rs 20 lakhs then he is not required to report such transactions if value of each transaction does not exceed Rs 2 lakhs.

No disallowance of service tax just because it is paid by service provider out of its own pocket

Facts:

a) Assessee was engaged in business of broking in Government and other securities. As clients of assessee did not pay service tax to it, assessee paid service tax out of its own resources and claimed deduction of same under section 37(1).

b) The Assessing Officer disallowed claim for deduction holding that obligation to pay service tax was on customer/client and same could not be shifted to assessee. The High Court held as under:

1) It is undisputed that the obligation under the Finance Act, 1994 to pay the service tax is on the assessee being the service provider. This obligation has to be fulfilled by the service provider whether or not it receives the service tax from its clients/customers.

2) Non-payment of such service tax into the treasury would normally result in demand and penalty proceedings under the Finance Act, 1994. Therefore, the payment is on account of expediency, exclusively and wholly incurred for the purposes of business, therefore, deductible under section 37(1). - [2016] 76 taxmann.com 211 (Bombay)

Small traders accepting e-payments can save 46% tax under new presumptive tax regime: FinMin

If a small trader makes his transactions in cash on a turnover of Rs. 2 Crore, then his income under the presumptive scheme will then be presumed to be Rs. 16 lakhs @ 8% of turnover. After availing of Rs. 1.5 lakhs of deduction under Section 80C, his total tax liability will be Rs. 2, 67,800. However, if he shifts to 100% digital transactions under the new announcement made, his profit will be presumed to be at Rs. 12 lakhs @ 6% of turnover, and after availing of Rs. 1.5 lakhs under Section 80C, his tax liability now will be only Rs. 1,44,200. Here, digital transactionincludes payment received by Cheque or through any other digital means.

Apart from making a tax saving by migrating to banking mode, the small businesses would be able to build their books which may also help them get bank loans easily. Also, if transactions are carried out through banking channels, then anybody having annual turnover up to Rs. 66 lakhs will have zero tax liability after availing the benefit of Section 80C, after amendment of this new rate structure.

Wednesday, December 21, 2016

No dismissal of cheque bouncing complaint just because it is filed by partner in individual capacity

The Complainant, a partner in a firm has filed the complaint for dishonouring of cheque undersection 138 of the Negotiable Instrument Act. He filled the complaint in his individual capacity/ status without affixing seal or rubber stamp of partnership firm.Trial court dismissed thecomplaint filed by the complainant on the ground that he had not satisfied eligibility criteria and singed the complaint in individual capacity.

The High Court held thatTrial Court erred in holding that complainant had not guilty for offence under section 138 of Negotiable Instrument Act. An opportunity has to be provided to complainant to file unregistered partnership deed and matter has to be remanded to trial court for fresh consideration. [2016] 76 taxmann.com 255 (Madras)

Click here to read full document

Govt. aims to reduce Presumptive Tax Rate to 6% for digital receipts during FY 2016-17

Recent demonetization drive of the Government has encouraged people to shift towards digital mode of payment while making financial transactions. By adopting digital mode of payments, no financial transactions would remain undisclosed and, consequently, an enhanced turnover of business might get reflected in the books of account.The existing provisions of section 44AD provide that 8% of turnover would be deemed as presumptive profit in case of certain assesses having a turnover of Rs 2 crore or less.

In order incentivise small traders to proactively accept payments by digital means, Govt. has decided to reduce the existing rate of deemed profit under Section 44AD from 8% to 6% in respect of the turnover or gross receipts through digital means for the Financial Year 2016-17. However, the existing rate of deemed profit of 8% referred to in section 44AD, shall continue to apply in respect of total turnover or gross receipts in cash. Such changes would be effective once amendments are brought to Section 44AD by the Finance Act, 2017.

Saturday, December 17, 2016

Govt. to open 3.5 month’s window for declaring black Money under PMGKY from Dec. 17, 2016

The Government has given around 3.5 month’s period for filing declaration under Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Yojana (‘PMGKY’) from December 17, 2016 till March 31, 2017. All declarations under PMGKY shall be furnished to Principal Commissioner or the Commissioner, in any of the following modes:

i) Electronically under digital signature, or

ii) Electronically through EVC, or

iii) In physical Form

Government has also notified ‘Form 1’ for declaring unaccounted income in the form of cash or bank deposits. Declarant needs to specify the following details in Form 1:

a) Name, address and PAN;

b) Status of declarant (whether resident, Non-resident, individual, HUF, Firm, etc.)

c) Amount held in cash and bank deposits.

d) Details of taxes paid before filing of declaration (i.e., date of deposit, Challan Number, etc.)

e) Details of amount deposited in PM Garib Kalyan Deposit Scheme (i.e., minimum deposit amount is 25% of unaccounted income) An option is also given to revise the declaration till March 31, 2017 if there is any omissions or wrong statement. After filing of declaration, the Principal CIT or CIT shall issue a certification in Form-2 to the declaration within 30 days from the end of the month in which declaration has been furnished.

Friday, December 16, 2016

Service receiver has no locus standi to challenge service-tax circular; SLP dismissed

Service-Tax: If the person to whom the burden of service tax is ultimately passed on is
entitled to challenge levy of service-tax, it would lead to disastrous consequence. Millions of
consumers would come and challenge such levy of taxes. Thus, service receiver has no locus
standi to challenge service-tax circular on Joint Development Agreement.

Click here to read Supreme Court Judgement

No revised return to show black money as income of past years; Tax dept. cautions taxpayers

Under the existing provisions of section 139(5), revised return can be filed only if original return contains any omission or any wrong statement. Post demonetization of the currency, some taxpayers may misuse this provision to revise the return-of-income of earlier Assessment Years, for manipulating the figures of income, cash-inhand, profits, etc. with an intention to show the current year’s undisclosed income in the earlier return.

Thus, the CBDT has clarified that the provision to file a revised return of income has not been stipulated for making changes in the income initially declared so as to drastically alter the form, substance and quantum of the earlier disclosed income. Any instance coming to the notice of Income-tax Department which reflects manipulation in the amount of income, cash-in-hand, profits, etc. may necessitate scrutiny of such cases so as
to ascertain the correct income. It may also attract penalty or prosecution in appropriate cases.

‘No Reassessment circulars’ aren’t Amnesty Scheme for past sins

Demonetization has encouraged people to shift towards digital mode of payment while making financial transactions. By adopting digital mode of payment, no financial transactions would remain undisclosed and consequently an enhanced turnover of business might get reflected in the books of accounts.

Under the circumstances, an apprehension has been raised that increased turnover in the current year may lead to reopening of earlier years' cases causing undue harassment to tax payers. Thus, CBDT and CBEC (vide Circular No. 40/2016 and Circular No. 137/155/2012-Service tax) have advised tax officials not to re-open past assessments in income-tax and indirect tax cases only because increased turnover is reflected in books of accounts of business on account of increased use of digital means of payment.

It would be incorrect to construe the above Circulars as giving any amnesty to taxevaders. Nor do the above circulars say that any spurt in turnover reported in books of account of businesses of current financial year (and consequently in their ITRs or indirect taxes returns) would not need to be explained.

The Circulars do not give businessmen a license to show their accumulated black money in the form of demonetized notes as current year’s turnover and get away scot-free without any interest or penalty and by paying normal tax for current year. If such a license is given by the circulars, the proposed PMGKY Scheme and proposed amendments to section115BBE of Income-Tax Act and proposed new section 271AAC of that Act would be redundant. The Circulars are innocuous and merely caution tax o􀁹icials to adopt systematic approach under the law to enquire into sudden jumps and reopen past assessment only if enquiry
throws up reason to believe that past turnovers/incomes escaped assessment.


Tuesday, December 13, 2016

Banks to request customers to indicate old and new currency in deposit slips: FinMin

Maintenance of records regarding deposit of old demonetized currency and new currency is essential both in the bank record as well as the customer’s record. Though most banks providing correct information to the customers yet to ensure that it is done in 100% of cases without fail, all the bank branches in the country be alerted to reflect correctly the cash deposit in old and new currency and inform the customers about the same. Thus, the Government has directed banks to display a prominent sign requesting their customers to fill-up deposit slips clearly indicating old and new currency and the denomination of notes.

Click here to read full document

Mere increase in sales due to acceptance of digital payment won’t trigger reassessment of past years

Recent initiatives of the Government to curb the black economy in the country has encouraged people to shift towards digital mode of payment while making financial transactions. By adopting digital mode of payment, no financial transactions would remain undisclosed and consequently an enhanced turnover of business might get reflected in the books of accounts.

Thus, the CBDT has clarified that mere increase in turnover, because of use of digital means of payment or otherwise, in a particular year cannot be a sole reason to believe that income has escaped assessment in earlier years. Hence, Assessing Officers are advised not to reopen past assessments in cases merely on the ground that the current year's turnover has increased.

Click here to view press release

Publication would have profit element which would be missing on reproduction of work by Teacher: HC

Copyright Act: Publication need not be for the benefit of or available to or meant for reading by all the members of the community. A targeted audience would also be a public. But, a publication would have the element of profit, which would be missing in the case of reproduction of work by teacher to be used in the course of instruction while imparting education to pupils. - [2016] 76 taxmann.com 157 (Delhi)

Click here to read full document

New institute formed by Praveen Sharma for CA/CS aspirants doesn’t amount to cartelization: CCI

Facts:

a) Mr. Praveen Sharma and Mr. R.K. Mehta, renowned faculty, were running coaching classes for CA/CS aspirant under the Faculty Arrangement Agreement (‘FAA’) with coaching Institute ‘ETEN CA’. They shared all the confidential information under the agreement with each other.

b) ETEN CA alleged that Mr. Praveen Sharma and Mr. R.K. Mehta made certain illegal demands and threatened to discontinue ongoing batches if their demands were not fulfilled.

c) Further, it alleged that Mr. Praveen sharma had starteda new coaching institute in the name of ‘Adline Ventures’ and Mr. R.K. Mehta and others as faculty members were appointed in this new institute

d) ETEN CA filed complaint with CCI that Mr. Praveen Sharma and other faculty members abused their dominant position by influencing the students and misusing the confidential information provided by ETEN CA. Further, it alleged that they indulged in anti-competitive agreement by cartelizing and adopting unfair trade practices.

The Competition Commission held as under:

1) Many other coaching centers such as CA club India, J.K. Shah Classes, Institute of grooming, etc., were also providing similar online and offline coaching services for CA/CS aspirants. With the presence of other players in the market, it did not appear that Adline Ventures enjoyed a dominant position.

2) Further, new entity (i.e., Adline Ventures) formed for competing with ETEN-CA doesn’t amount to cartelization as Mr. Parveen Sharma and other faculty members used their experience and expertise to operate their own business in the area of providing coaching classes. - [2016] 76 taxmann.com 140 (CCI)

Click here to read full document

Latest updates from RBI

1. Unchanged Repo Rate: On the basis of an assessment of the current and evolving macroeconomics situation, the monetary policy committee of RBI has decided to keep the policy repo rate unchanged at 6.25 %. [Press Release : 2016-2017/1442, Dated 07-12-2016]

2. Relaxed norms for card payment: RBI has decided to relax authentication norms for card payment up to Rs. 2000. [Circular no. DPSS.CO.PDNo.1431/02.14.003/2016-17, Dated 06-12-2016]

3. Additional Point of Sale Terminals: To expand the digital payments eco-system and facilitate the move towards cashless transactions, the Govt. has directed banks to install an additional one million Point of Sale terminals by March 31, 2017. [Press Release, Dated 06-12-2016]

4. Re-activate Dormant bank account: Many customer are approaching banks for reactivation of dormant bank account. Thus, RBI has directed bank to follow the due-diligence procedure while re-activating dormant account of the customers. [Circular no. DBR.AML.BC.No.44/14.01.001/2016-17, Dated 06-12-2016]

Wednesday, December 7, 2016

Income-Tax Dept. found Rs 1.64 cr. black money deposited in Jan-Dhan Accounts

The Income-Tax Department conducted investigation across India due to sudden surge in cash deposits in Jandhan accounts. Investigation revealed undisclosed moneys of approximately Rs.1.64 Crore deposited into Jan-Dhan Accounts. Such deposits have been made by persons who have never filed returns of income and whose income is below the taxable limits.

Such Jan-Dhan accounts have been detected at Kolkata, Midnapore, Ara (Bihar), Kochi and Varanasi. Rs. 40 Lakh has been seized from one such account in Bihar. Undisclosed income so detected will be brought to tax as per the provisions of the Income Tax Act, apart from other actions depending upon the outcome of investigations.

The CBDT has again urged the account holders not to consent to any kind of misuse of their accounts which would expose them to the dangers of being held responsible for the tax evasion by unscrupulous elements.

Currency Notes printed for RBI held as goods : Madhya Pradesh HC

Assessee was a company, engaged in the business of printing of currency notes for Government of India. The VAT department raised demand on assessee on the ground that currency notes were goods. The assessee filed writ before the High Court and argued that it was performing the sovereign functions of the Govt. of India and could not be said to be a dealer engaged in any business activities.The currency notes could not be termed as goods and the sale and supply of currency was out of the definition of goods.

Monday, December 5, 2016

FAQs on Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Yojana

The Government has announced demonetization of existing currency of Rs. 500/1000 with effect from the 9th November, 2016. However, concerns have been raised that some of the existing provisions of the Income-tax Act, 1961 ('Act') could possibly be used for concealing black money. So, the Government has introduced Taxation Laws (Second Amendment) Bill, 2016 in the Lok Sabha to amend the provisions of Income-Tax Act. The Bill was also cleared in the Lok Sabha.

The Government has announced Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Yojana 2016 (PMGKY) in the Taxation Laws (Second Amendment) Bill, 2016. As per this PMGKY black money deposited in banks or held in cash can be offered for taxation at 49.9% (i.e., 30% tax, 9.9% surcharge and 10% penalty).

Saturday, December 3, 2016

Cap on employees share in Public Offer raised from Rs 2 lacs to Rs 5 lacs

SEBI has amended the ICDR Regulation enabling employees to apply for shares beyond the specified limit of Rs. 2 lakh under employee reservation quota. SEBI has raised the limit of maximum shares that employees can bid in their Company’s IPO to Rs. 5 lakhs from existing limit of Rs. 2 lakhs with a view to increase investor base in listed companies. The application for shares of the value in excess of Rs 2 lakh shall be considered only in the event of undersubscription in the employee reservation portion. Further, the value of total allotment to an employee under the employee reservation portion, including the additional allotment shall
not exceed Rs 5 lakh.

No restriction on deposits in current account; Fake RBI instruction circulating in social media

Fake Circular No. RBI/2016-17/166 provides that in case of genuine deposits in Current Account banks are advised to take certificate of cash balance as on Nov. 8, 2016 duly attested by tax authorities along with details of deposits from Nov. 10, 2016 till date.

Actual Circular No. RBI/2016-17/166 provides that banks should not rely on instructions issued on unofficial channels like social media and rely on instructions uploaded on RBI’s website.

Thursday, December 1, 2016

Taxation Second Amendment Bill, 2016: 11 things to know for disclosure of black money

The Government has announced demonetization of existing currency of Rs. 500/1000 with effect from the 9th November, 2016. However, concerns have been raised that some of the existing provisions of the Income-tax Act, 1961 ('Act') could possibly be used for concealing black money. So, the Government has introduced Taxation Laws (Second Amendment) Bill, 2016 in the Lok Sabha to amend the provisions of Income-Tax Act.

The Government has announced Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Yojana 2016 (PMGKY) in the Taxation Laws (Second Amendment) Bill, 2016. As per this PMGKY black money deposited in banks or held in cash can be offered for taxation at 49.9% (i.e., 30% tax, 9.9% surcharge and 10% penalty).

The Revenue Secretary, Hasmukh Adhia said that Income-tax department will not ask for the source of funds deposited in banks if the entire income is declared under PMGKY. From bare reading of this statement of Revenue Secretary, doubts arise as to whether any corrupt official or corrupt member of political party or any criminal can also come clean by paying 49.90% tax under PMGKY. No, any criminal or corrupt person cannot avail of benefit of this PMGKY as he is specifically excluded from purview of PMGKY.

Taxation Second Amendment Bill, 2016: 11 things to know for disclosure of black money

The Government announced demonetization of existing currency of Rs 500/1000 as a step forward to curb black money with effect from the 9th November, 2016. However, concerns have been raised that some of the existing provisions of the Income-tax Act, 1961 (‘Act’) could possibly be used for concealing black money. It is, therefore, important to plug these loopholes within Act so as to prevent misuse of the provisions. Thus, the Govt. has introduced Taxation Laws (Second Amendment) Bill, 2016 in the Lok Sabha which proposes to make some changes in the Act to ensure that defaulting assessees are subjected to tax at a higher rate with stringent penalty provision.

Disclosure of black money held in banks or cash

1.Black money deposited in banks or held in cash can be offered for taxation at concessional rate under Pradhan MantriGaribKalyanYojna, 2016 (‘PMGKY’). This income would be taxed at 49.9% (i.e., 30% tax, 9.9% surcharge and 10% penalty).

CBEC releases revised version of GST Model Law

The Draft GST model law was released on June 14, 2016.On Nov. 26, 2016 the CBEC has released the revised version of draft GST model law after considering the suggestions of the stakeholders. It has also released the draft law for compensating the States. The Central Govt. would compensate the States for the revenue loss in the first five years of GST implementation.

The Compensation payable to the States for any financial year would be the difference between actual revenue (i.e., SGST + apportioned IGST) and projected revenue. The GST compensation payable to a State shall be provisionally calculated and released at the end of every quarter, and shall be finally calculated for every financial year a􀁺er the receipt of final revenue figures, as audited by the CAG.

To fund this compensation, there would be a levy of GST compensation Cess on specified goods and services. However, no cess would be levied on assessees opting for composition scheme. We will shortly provide our viewers the detailed summary of new version of GST law.


Media reports: Proposal to tax demonetized notes at 60%! Whether legally sound?

There are news reports in media saying that Union Cabinet approved a proposal to amend section 270A of the Income-Tax Act,1961 to provide that unaccounted cash deposited in bank account during the demonetization period(09-11-2016 to 30-12-2016) would be taxed at 50% if voluntarily disclosed in income-tax return. The amounts so deposited and disclosed will have lock-in-period of 4 years.

If not so disclosed and the same is detected by the Income-Tax department, the amounts would attract 60% tax and penalty. There is no Bill or Ordinance or Press Release or CBDT Circular to this effect So to give credence to these news reports in planning one’s tax affairs may be risky. Secondly, assuming the proposal to be true, whether it is a legally and morally sound proposal?

Thursday, November 24, 2016

Demonetization: 8 new announcements to incentivize digitization and help farmers

The Economic Affairs Secretary, Shaktikanta Das, addressed the media on Government's move to demonetize High Denominations Notes (HDNs) of Rs 500/1000. He briefed the media about slew of measures proposed by Govt. to incentivize digitalization and provide relief to farmers. The Govt. has announced following measures to promote demonetization: 

1) Maximum limit for recharging e-wallets and other prepaid instruments has been increased from Rs 10,000 to Rs 20,000.

2) There will be no service charge for using any debit card and booking of online railways tickets till December 31, 2016.

3) A pilot programme is underway in 20 banks that are using a new Unified Payment Interface Mobile Application (App). This app will enable not just making payments but also getting payments, all instantly, in real time. The transaction limit for using this app is Rs 50,000.

Wednesday, November 23, 2016

Govt. puts riders on cash withdrawals for marriage celebrations

After demonetization of old notes of Rs. 500/1000, there is a chaos among people. Finally the Govt. paid heed to people’s feeling and it allowed up to Rs 2.5 lakhs withdrawals from wedding celebrations. Now, the Govt. put riders on such withdrawals. In order to ensure that only genuine people make such withdrawal. The Govt. has imposed following conditions for withdrawals:

I. The application for withdrawal shall be accompanied by following documents:

• An application in the specified format

• Evidence of the wedding, including the invitation card, copies of receipts for advance payments already made, such as Marriage hall booking, advance payments to caterers, etc.

• Evidence of the wedding, including the invitation card, copies of receipts for advance payments already made, such as Marriage hall booking, advance payments to caterers, etc.

• A detailed list of persons to whom the cash is proposed to be paid, together with a declaration from such persons that they do not have a bank account. The list should indicate the purpose for which the proposed payments are being made.

II. Withdrawals are permitted only from accounts which are fully KYC compliant.

III. Withdrawals can be made either by the parents or the person getting married.

Tuesday, November 22, 2016

Myth Buster: Receipt of cash in new currency on selling a property would also invite penalty

After the demonetization of old currency notes of Rs 500/1000 denominations on Nov. 8, 2016, there is chaos among people holding hefty amounts of cash. Many taxpayers are left with cash proceeds on sale of property which they have accepted in black from buyers. What are consequences if sellers deposit such receipts in bank account?
Section 269SS of the Income-Tax Act prohibits acceptance of Rs. 20,000 or more cash for any transaction of transfer of immovable property. The prohibition applies whether the sum is received as advance or otherwise. In terms of section 271D, violation of this prohibition attracts a penalty equal to the amount accepted or received.
Thus, if the seller deposits the black component of sale price (received in cash) in bank account and declares it in its return of income and explains it as consideration for sale of property, he is liable to pay capital gains tax with reference to total consideration including black. He will also be visited with a penalty under section 271D equal to the amount of cash accepted or received by him.
Editor’s comments: Any sale proceeds received in cash on or after Nov. 9, 2016 in demonetized notes is an invalid transaction. Even if someone has received new currency as sale proceeds, this will result in levy of penalty which shall be equivalent to amount so received in cash.

Click here to read full article

Monday, November 21, 2016

Judicial precedents on Demonetization of Currency

The Government has decided to discontinue with the legal tender character of High Denomination Bank Notes (HDNs) of Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 with effect from November 9, 2016. In other words, such notes will not be legal tenders from midnight of November 8, 2016. Old HDNs can be exchanged or deposited in banks till December 30, 2016.After announcing such demonetization, people have started worrying about the tax implications even in case of genuine savings deposited into bank account.

In order to provide clarity on this issue, we have analyzed judicial precedents wherein such issues have been discussed in the past.

Saturday, November 19, 2016

Govt. may prosecute people depositing third party black money in their bank accounts

As announced by Government earlier small deposits made in the banks by artisans, workers, housewives, etc., would not be questioned by the Income Tax Department. But some reports show that some people are using other persons’ bank accounts to convert their black money into new denomination notes for which reward is also being given to the account holders who agree to allow their accounts to be used.

To avoid tax evasion, it has been clarified by the Govt. that such activity can be made subject to income tax and penalty if it is established that the amount deposited in the account holder was not of the account holder but of somebody else. Also, the person who allows his or her account to be misused for the purpose of converting black money can be prosecuted for abetment under Income Tax Act.

Friday, November 18, 2016

Govt. allows 2.5 lakh withdrawal for wedding and 25,000 withdrawal for farmers

After demonetization of old notes, the Govt. had imposed various restrictions on withdrawals from ATMs and banks. This restriction on withdrawal badly hit the farmers, vegetable traders and people who needed money for marriage in their family. Considering the genuine difficulties faced by such people, the Govt. has lent following relief:

a) Withdrawal for wedding: Now families can focus on wedding celebration instead of worrying about cash crisis as the Govt. has provided that such families can withdraw up to Rs. 2.5 lakhs from bank account. The amount can be drawn only by either of the parents or the person getting married. The limit of withdrawal will apply to the girl’s and the boy’s family separately. A self-declaration will be required for this purpose.

b) Rs. 50,000 withdrawals for Vegetable traders: Traders in wholesale markets/mandis can withdraw up to Rs. 50,000 per week to meet expenses like wages.

c) Rs. 25,000 withdrawal for farmers: Farmers are currently selling their produce from the Kharif season in the APMC markets/mandis. The farmers who receive such payments in their bank accounts through cheque/ RTGS will be permitted to draw up to Rs. 25,000/- per week in cash. Such relief is given to farmers to meet with various expenses connected with agriculture operation.

d) Withdrawal of Rs. 10,000 by Govt. employees: Government employees will have the option to draw their salary in advance from their bank account. The amount will be adjusted in their salary of November 2016.

e) Reduced limit for exchanging demonetized notes: The withdrawal limit for exchanging demonetized notes has been reduced from Rs 4,500 to Rs 2,000 from November 18, 2016.

Thursday, November 17, 2016

CBDT asks Banks to report each cash deposit above Rs. 2.5 lacs in AIR

The Govt. decided to discontinue with the legal tender character of the existing High Denomination Bank Notes (HDNs) of Rs 500 and Rs 1000. This decision has been taken to curb financing of terrorism through the proceeds of Fake Indian Currency Notes and for eliminating Black Money. Old HDNs can be exchanged or deposited in banks till December 30, 2016. As per the existing provisions of Rule 114B, customers have to furnish PAN for cash deposits above Rs 50,000 per day. As per provisions of Rule 114E, the banks were required to report all cash deposits above 50 lakhs in current account and all cash deposits above Rs 10 lakhs in saving accounts in a financial year.

Now after the demonetization of currency, people are splitting-up their black money by depositing cash in several accounts of third parties (viz, accounts of their friends, employees, relatives). They are depositing cash less than Rs 50,000 per day and in aggregate less than 10/50 lakhs.

To curb such unscrupulous practice of such people hoarding black money, the CBDT has amended Rule 114E to provide that all cash deposits in saving accounts above Rs 2.5 lakhs during the period 9-11-2016 to 30-12-2016 will be reported by banks to income-tax department in AIR (Known as ‘Statement of Financial Transactions’).

Further all cash deposits above Rs 12.5 lakhs in current accounts during the period 9-11-2016 to 30-12-2016 will also be reported by banks to income-tax department in AIR. Further, the CBDT has mandated furnishing of PAN by customers for any cash deposits above 2.5 lakhs during the period 9-11-2016 to 30-12-2016 in bank account.

Demonetization: 4 key changes on exchange/withdrawal of old notes

After the demonetization of old currency notes of Rs 500/1000, the Govt. has allowed exchange of old notes up to Rs 4500. However, there are long queues outside the banks for exchanging old notes. It has come to the notice of Govt. that people are coming again and again to exchange old notes. In order to stop such unscrupulous practice of multiple withdrawal by same person, the Govt. has asked banks to use indelible ink on people exchanging old notes.

Recent decisions taken by Govt. on demonetization are given here under:

1) No charges on multiple withdrawals from ATM: Under existing norms, bank charges fee for more than 3 withdrawal from ATM. However, due to withdrawal limit of Rs 2500 per day, people are forced to do multiple transactions. Thus, in order to provide relief to them, it has been decided to waive off charges on multiple withdrawals from ATMs till December 30, 2016.

2) Indelible Ink for exchanging old notes: It has come to the notice of Govt. that people are coming again and again to exchange old notes. In order to stop such unscrupulous practice of multiple withdrawal by same person, the Govt. has asked banks to use indelible ink on people exchanging old notes Rs. 500 and 1,000.

a) Withdrawal limits: The withdrawal limit from ATMs has been increased from Rs 2000/- per day to Rs 2500/- per day. The cash withdrawal limit from bank account has been increased to Rs. 24000 per week from Rs 20,000. However, the withdrawal limit of Rs. 10000 per day from bank account has been removed. The current account holders (which are operational for last three months or more) are allowed to withdraw up to Rs. 50000 from bank per week.

3) Exchange limit: The limit of exchanging old notes of Rs. 500/1000 over the counter has been increased from Rs. 4,000 to Rs. 4,500.

4) Senior Citizens: Banks are advised to make arrangements for separate queues for Senior citizens and Divyang (disabled) persons. Similarly, separate queues should also be arranged for people depositing money and those exchanging old notes.

Govt. extends validity of demonetized currency till Nov. 14, 2016 for payment of utility bills, etc.

As the Government has declared that currency notes of Rs. 500 and Rs. 1,000 denominations will not be valid from midnight of November 8, 2016, citizens will have to surrender the old notes at any branch of a bank or post office to get the new notes.

However, Govt. had notified that such demonetized currency would be valid till Nov. 11, 2016 for certain payments like utility bills, Petrol, diesel, LPG Cylinder, etc. Now the Govt. has extended the validity of such currency till Nov. 14, 2016 for payment of utility bills, etc. However, the Govt. had put a rider that payment of utility bills with demonetized currency can be made only by Individuals or households. Further, only arrears or current charges of utility bills can be paid with such currency and no advance payment shall be allowed.

How Much Taxes To Be Paid If You Deposit Black Money In Bank Account

When any person deposits some cash amount in his bank account and it is established that such deposit is an unaccounted money (black money), the entire deposit shall be charged to tax without providing the benefit of slab rates. We have analysed the tax impact in three different scenarios, when the amount deposited in bank account is proved to be black money. We request our readers to not rely on the table being circulated in social networking platforms wherein benefit of slab rates and exemption limit is given on black money.

Permissible payments with old notes till Nov. 11, 2016

As the Government has declared that currency notes of Rs. 500 and Rs. 1,000 denominations will not be valid from midnight of November 8, 2016, citizens will have to surrender the old notes at any branch of a bank or post office to get the new notes.

However, Economic Affairs Secretary, Shaktikanta tweeted that such old notes of Rs 500 and Rs1000 would be valid till November 11, 2016 for payment of utility bill like water, electricity, etc. He further said that such old notes can also be used for payment of fees, taxes and penalties to the Central and State Govt. including Municipality and local bodies. Earlier the Govt. had allowed acceptance of old notes till November 11, 2016 for making payment for following purposes:

1) Making payments in all pharmacies on production of doctor’s prescription and proof of identity;

2) Making payments on all toll plazas;

3) For purchase of LPG cylinders;

Govt. allows 2.5 lakh withdrawal for wedding and 25,000 withdrawal for farmers

The Govt. has decided to discontinue the legal tender character of high denomination bank notes of Rs 500 and Rs 1000. In other words, such notes will not be a legal tender from midnight of November 8, 2016. This decision is being made to curb financing of terrorism through the proceeds of Fake Indian Currency Notes and for eliminating Black Money. Key takeaways of this decision are given hereunder:

1. You can exchange old high denomination notes of Rs 500 and Rs 1000 at any of the 19 offices of the RBI or at any of the bank branches or at any Head Post Office or Sub-Post Office from 10th November onward till 30th December, 2016.The RBI will issue two new notes of Rs. 2,000 and Rs. 500.

2. You can go to any bank branch with valid identity proof for exchange of notes up to Rs. 4,000. Exchange of currency in excess of Rs. 4,000 (in denomination of Rs. 500 or Rs. 1,000) shall be allowed by way of credit of money into your Bank account only.

3. Withdrawal from ATMs shall be restricted to Rs.2,000 per day per card up to 18th November, 2016. The limit shall be raised to Rs.4,000 per day per card from 19th November, 2016.

4. You can withdraw cash against withdrawal slip or cheque subject to ceiling of Rs. 10,000 in a day within an overall limit of Rs. 20,000 in a week (including withdrawals from ATMs) up to 24th November 2016.

5. There is no restriction on any kind of payments by cheques, demand drafts, mobile wallets or debit or credit cards and electronic fund transfer.

6. The existing notes of Rs 500/1000 can be used till 11th November, 2016 for payment in any government hospitals, to purchase bus tickets at government bus stands, train tickets at railway stations, air tickets at airports, for purchase of milk, consumable goods at Govt. authorized booths, petrol or diesel or for payment at crematoria and burial grounds or to exchange foreign currency by foreign tourists.

7. In case it is not possible for you to visit the branch you may send your representative with an express mandate, i.e. a written authorisation.

8. All ATMs, Cash Deposit Machines, Cash Recycles and any other machine used for receipt and payment of cash shall be shut on 9th and 10th November, 2016.Banks and Government Treasuries will be closed on 9th November, 2016.


Tuesday, November 8, 2016

Govt. allows 49% foreign investment under automatic route in pension sector

As per the extant norms, up to 26 % FDI is permissible in pension sector through automatic route. However, FDI up to 49% is permissible in pension sector if approval from Govt. is obtained.

To attract more foreign Investment in India, the Govt. has allowed up to 49% FDI in Pension Sector under automatic route. Thus, now approval from Govt. is not required for 49% FDI in Pension Sector. However, it is subject to the condition that foreign investments should be brought in the form of equity shares or preference shares or convertible debentures or warrants of the Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA) Act, 2013. Further, an entity should obtain necessary registration from the PFRDA and comply with other requirements of the PFRDA Act, 2013 and Rules and Regulations framed there under.

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Monday, November 7, 2016

Legal charges paid to UK firm for setting-up of bank branch outside India wasn't royalty or FTS: ITAT

Facts:

a) The assessee was engaged in the banking business and paid certain legal fees to one legal firm situated in UK. The assessee had deducted and deposited 20% withholding taxes on such payment as per the agreement.

b) Subsequently, it filed an appeal before Commissioner (Appeals) and contended that the impugned payment was not liable to be taxed in India. Said contention was considered but dismissed by the Commissioner (Appeals) on the ground that no new source of income came into existence by obtaining the legal services, and hence, the impugned payment constituted 'Royalty'/'FTS' as per section 9(1)(vi)/(vii).

The ITAT held as under:

1) The impugned payments were made by assessee for creating or earning a new source of income outside India by way of establishment of new Bank Branch or acquisition of Bank.

2) Section 9 provides that royalty or FTS is deemed to accrue or arise in India if it is payable by a person who is resident, except where the fees are payable for the purposes of making or earning any income from any source outside India;

GST Council decides four-tier rate structure of 5%, 12%, 18% and 28%

The GST Council in its fourth meeting held on Nov. 3, 2016 has finalized the GST rates. The finalised rates are 5, 12, 18 and 28 percent. The sin items such as tobacco, aerated drinks, pan masala, etc., will be taxed at more than 28 percent. The rate of GST on Gold has not been decided yet. Items constituting half of the consumer price index (CPI) basket (including food grain) will be exempted from GST.

The additional cess would be levied in first five years after GST implementation to compensate States for any loss of revenue. The Corpus of Rs.50,000 Crore would be needed to pay compensation to States in the first year.

Mere default in furnishing Form 15G/15H doesn't call for sec. 40(a)(ia) disallowance

Facts:

The issue before the ITAT was:

Whether section 40(a)(ia) could be invoked when Form 15G/15H was obtained from the deductee although not filed before proper authority?

The ITAT held as under:

1) Section 40(a)(ia) spells out that the amount cannot be allowed as deduction only in the event when tax is deductible at source and such tax has not been deducted or, after deduction has not been paid.

2) In the instant case, it was the case of the AO that the assessee was required to deduct tax in terms of the provisions of section 194A. Section 194A is further qualified by section 197A(1A) which is a non obstante clause. Section 197A(1A) provides that liability to deduct tax under section 194A ceases when a declaration (i.e., Form 15G, Form 15H, etc.) is received by a person responsible for paying income to the payee.

Trust promoting Jain Community entitled to registration if it was also working for benefit of general public

Facts:

a) The assessee-trust applied for registration in terms of section 12A.

b) The Commissioner refused such registration on the ground that the objects and activities of the trust were not charitable and were mainly for the purposes of a Jain Community and, therefore, provisions of section 13(1)(b) were attracted.

c) On appeal, the Tribunal was of the view that the Commissioner could not mix the requirements of registration of a trust with that of granting exemption under section 13.

The High Court held as under:

1) It was seen that, the Commissioner focused his attention on particular clauses of the objects of the trust to come to the conclusion that the same were for the benefit of a certain religious communities only, in the process ignoring various other objects, for e.g., the trust would engage itself in activities relating to education by maintaining and running education centers, run hostels, training centers for creating awareness in the common people and to make the education available to the public.

2) It would also engage in imparting training in computers. The trust would engage in doing all activities for medical help and to establish and administer dispensaries, hospitals and laboratories etc. It would also help the patients by supplying medicines and financial assistance. Likewise the trust could engage in rural development schemes.

Saturday, October 29, 2016

RBI allows start-ups to raise 3 million USD through ECBs

The RBI has allowed banks to allow start-ups to raise up External Commercial Borrowings (ECBs) upto 3 million USD or equivalent during each financial year for a minimum average maturity period of 3 years. An entity recognised as a Start-up by the Central Government on date of raising ECB is eligible to raise such ECBs.

 Such borrowing should be denominated in any freely convertible currency or in Indian Rupees  (INR) or a combination thereof. The money raised can be used for any expenditure in connection with the business of company. The borrowing can be in the form of loan or nonconvertible, optionally convertible or partially convertible preference shares.
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Promoter’s a/c can be freezed if an entity doesn't pay fine for non-compliance with disclosure norms

SEBI has observed that some of the listed entities have not paid the fines levied by the stock exchanges for non-compliance with disclosure norms. In order to ensure effective enforcement of listed regulation, it has been decided to freeze the holdings of promoters and promoter group entities of companies in the manner specified below:

• In case non-compliant listed entity fails to pay fine levied by stock exchanges within time frame specified in notice issued by the exchange, the concerned stock exchange shall, upon expiry of the period, freeze holdings in other securities in the demat accounts of promoter and promoter group to the extent of liability which shall be calculated on a quarterly basis.

• In case of non-compliance for two consecutive periods, and failure to comply with the notice issued by the stock exchange within time frame, the recognized stock exchange shall forthwith intimate the depositories to freeze the entire shareholding of the promoter and promoter group in such listed entity. In addition to the freezing of shares of the non-compliant listed entities, the holdings in the demat accounts of promoter and promoter group in other securities shall also be frozen to the extent of liability which shall be calculated on a quarterly basis.

• While freezing the holdings the recognized stock exchange shall have discretion of determining which of the securities and holdings of a promoter or promoter group entity are to be frozen.

India gets taxation rights on investments routed via Korea; CBDT notifies revised India-Korea DTAA

The existing Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (‘DTAA’) between India and Korea was signed on 19th July, 1985 and notified on 26th September 1986. A revised DTAA between India and Korea signed on 18th May 2015 during the visit of the Hon’ble PM to Seoul has entered into force on 12th September 2016, on completion of procedural requirements by both the countries. Provisions of new DTAA will have effect in India in respect of income derived in fiscal years beginning on or after 1st April, 2017.

Some of the salient features of new DTAA are as under:

a) The existing DTAA provided for residence based taxation of capital gains on shares. In line with India’s policy of taxation of capital gains on shares, the revised DTAA provides for source based taxation of capital gains arising from alienation of shares comprising more than 5% of share capital.

b) In order to promote cross border flow of investments and technology, the revised DTAA provides for reduction in withholding tax rates from 15% to 10% on royalties or fees for technical services and from 15% to 10% on interest income.

No capital gain tax if capital contribution by partner is current asset and not capital asset: ITAT

Facts:

The issue before the ITAT was as under:

Whether the CIT(A) has erred in deleting the addition of Short Term Capital Gains earned by the assessee on transfer of land to the Partnership firm as their Capital Contribution, by holding that the provisions of section 45(3) was not applicable?

The ITAT held as under:

1) Section 45(3) is applicable only in respect of a capital asset. The said provision has no application in the instant case since what was transferred by the partners was a current asset and not a capital asset.

2) Section 45(3) did not come into operation for the assessment year 2008-09 by reason of conversion of the developed land and building into fixed assets by the said firm or due to revaluation by the said firm of the asset so converted during the previous year ended March 31, 2008.

3) Section 45(3) of the Act is applicable in the year of transfer by the partner of his capital asset to the partnership firm by way of capital contribution. In the instant case, the year of transfer was the financial year ended March 31, 2006. The ITO was wholly unjustified in invoking section 45(3) which had no application in the assessment year 2008-09 or for that matter in the assessment year 2006-07. - [2016] 74 taxmann.com 187 (Kolkata - Trib.)

Tuesday, October 25, 2016

Date of dispatch or service of order isn’t relevant for maintainability of settlement application

The disputed issue before the High Court was as under:

Whether the order of assessment would be deemed to be pending for purpose of maintainability of settlement application just because such order was not dispatched or served?

The High Court held as under:

1) There has been divergent views of Bombay High Court and Delhi High Court on this impugned issue. In case of CIT v. Income tax settlement commission[2015] 58 taxmann.com 264 (Bombay) the Bombay High Court held that the date of service of assessment order is the crucial date only after which application for settlement could not be filed. However, in case of Qualimax Electronics (P.) Ltd. v. Union of India [2010] 27 STT 231 (Delhi) the Delhi High Court held that the crucial date would be the date of dispatch of the order and not the date of its service.

Monday, October 24, 2016

Sum paid to brothers for vacating house held as cost of improvement of house

Facts:

a) The assessee had shown income from long-term capital gain from sale of house property.

b) It claimed deduction of certain amount paid to brothers for vacating the house as expenditure incurred for improvement of asset.

c) The Assessing Officer declined such claim on the ground that the assessees were the sole occupant of their property and brothers were neither living in capacity of a tenant nor were paying any rent.

d) On appeal, the CIT (Appeals) affirmed the findings of the Assessing Officer. The aggrievedassessee filed the instant appeal.

The Tribunal held as under:

1) In the present appeals, situation was required to be appreciated, keeping in mind social circumstances and the relationship of the brothers. What was their settlement while residing together? What was feeling of elder brother towards their younger brother, when they displaced them from a property where they were residing for last more than 24 years?

No decision on GST rates–Key takeaways from Third Meeting of GST council

The GST Council headed by Union Finance Minister, Shri Arun Jaitley, has to recommend various issues related to GST, viz., GST rates, administrative control over assessee, compensation to States, etc., in its third Meeting scheduled on 18-20 October, 2016. However, the third meeting of GST council concluded abruptly on October 19, 2016, a day ahead of its schedule. Key takeaways from such meeting are given hereunder:
 
1. The Centre has proposed four-tiered rate structure, i.e., 6%, 12%, 18% and 26%.Such proposal also includes tax rate of 4% on gold. Maximum rate of 26% has been proposed on demerit or luxuries goods. However, the GST meeting was concluded without any final decision on GST rates. Decision on GST rates will be decided in next meeting of GST council to be held in November, 2016.
 
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Thursday, October 20, 2016

CBDT notifies final rules on buy back of shares

Section 115-O provides for levy of Dividend Distribution Tax(‘DDT’) on the company at the time when company distributes, declares or pays any dividend to its shareholders. Consequent to the levy of DDT the amount of dividend received by the shareholders is not included in the total income of the shareholder.

However, the consideration received by a shareholder on buy-back of shares by the company is not treated as dividend but is taxable as capital gains under section 46A. 

Unlisted Companies, as part of tax avoidance scheme, were resorting to buy-back of shares instead of payment of dividends in order to avoid payment of tax by way of DDT particularly where the capital gains arising to the shareholders were either not chargeable to tax or were taxable at a lower rate.

HC pulls up tax dept. for issuing unlawful block assessment notice; imposed costs on dept.

Facts:

This Petition challenges a notice issued by the AO under Section 158BC calling upon the Petitioner to file his return of income within a period of 15 days of service of the notice.

The High Court held as under:

1) It was clear that no incriminating documents were found during the course of search. In any case the appraisal report would indicate that no notice under Section 158BC of the Act could be issued to the Petitioner as the condition precedent to issue such notice (viz, undisclosed income found during the search proceedings) was not satisfied.

2) This action on the part of the Respondents-revenue to issue the impugned notice ignoring the appraisal report was highly deplorable. We live in a Country governed by laws. The Officers of the Income Tax Department are obliged to proceed in accordance with the statutory provisions and not on their whim and fancy.

3) The Officers hold power in trust and must ensure that no citizen is harassed by sending him notices, when on the basis on its own record, such notices are not sustainable. We trust that the Income Tax Department would adopt a standard operating procedure which would provide for appropriate safeguards before issuing notices under Chapter XIVB of the Act. This alone would ensure that Officers of the Revenue act in terms of the mandate provided in the Act.

4) Thus, the Respondent-revenue was directed to pay the costs of Rs. 20,000 to the Petitioner within four weeks from today. - [2016] 74 taxmann.com 128 (Bombay) 

Monday, October 17, 2016

Taxable Event under GST

1) Taxable event means an event on happening of which the charge is fixed. Supply is taxable event under GST.

2) GST is a tax on supply of goods and services. Supply includes all forms of supply where goods and/or services are supplied by a person for a consideration.

3) Earlier, excise duty is levied on manufacturing of goods, service tax is levied on provision of services and sales tax or VAT is levied on sale of goods. Under GST regime, all these existing concepts will be irrelevant.

4) The term “Supply” is not properly defined under Model GST law. An inclusive definition is given without defining meaning of supply.

5) To levy GST, these six conditions have to be satisfied:

a) There is supply of goods and / or services

b) Supply is for a consideration

c) Supply is made in the course or furtherance of business


d) Supply is made in the taxable territory

Trust intending to carry out charitable activities outside India entitled to sec. 12AA registration

Facts:

a) The assessee-institution was formed vide a trust deed. It sought registration under section 12AA.

b) The DIT rejected the registration application as he was of view that the trust intended to carry out activities outside India.

c) The aggrieved-assessee filed the instant appeal.

The ITAT held as under:

1) Registration as per section 12AA by itself will not automatically confer the benefits of sections 11 and 12 to a trust, but the trust will get the benefit only on complying with the requirements of sections 11 & 12, which compliance can be examined by the assessing authority while processing the return filed by the trust. So long as the trust has objects which are charitable in nature, it is eligible for registration under section 12AA, unless there is a finding that the trust is not genuine.

Friday, October 14, 2016

24 things you should know about Draft GST Rules and Forms


With enactment of 101st Constitution Amendment Act, the road to GST is clear. The Govt. had already unveiled draft model law on GST. On 26th September, 2016 CBEC released draft rules and forms under GST on Registration, Invoice and Payment. GST council has also approved of draft rules in its meeting on 30th September, 2016. Key takeaways of draft rules and forms are given hereunder:
Registration
1.The application for GST registration will be made online either directly on the GSTN Portal or through Facilitation Centres.
2.The proper officer will examine registration application and grant registration within 3 common working days.
3.If the application is found deficient, then applicant will be intimated within 3 common working days. Thereafter, applicant has to furnish information or documents sought within 7 working days electronically. If the proper officer is satisfied with such details, then he will grant registration within 7 common working days from date of receipt of such details.
4.The person obtaining registration as casual dealer is required to make advance deposit for estimated tax liability for the period for which registration is sought.
5.The registration certificate must be displayed at principal place of business and at every additional place of business. GSTIN (i.e. registration number) must be displayed in the name board at the entry point of business premises.
 Invoice
6.Supplier needs to mention following details in invoice if recipient is unregistered and taxable value of supply is Rs 50,000 or more:
 Name and address of recipient;
 Delivery address along with the name of State.
7.Every invoice should contain place of supply if supply is in course of inter-State trade or commerce.
8.Three copies of invoice should be prepared in case of goods and only two copies of invoice are needed in case of services.
9.In case of taxable supply of services, the invoice shall be issued within 30 days from date of supply of services. However, no time-period is specified for issuance of invoice in case of supply of goods.
Returns
10.The registered taxable person is required to file details of outward supplies in Form GSTR-1 electronically. The recipient will receive GSTR 2A on the basis of details furnished by supplier in GSTR 1.
11.The recipient will file details of inward supplies in GSTR 2 electronically on basis of details contained in GSTR 2A. The recipient shall specify the details of inward supplies for which he is not eligible for input tax credit and quantum of such ineligible input credit.
12.The registered taxable person (other than composition dealer) shall file monthly return in GSTR-3. Part of this return will be electronically generated from GSTR 1, GSTR 2, electronic credit ledger, electronic cash ledger and electronic liability register.
13.A notice in Form GSTR 3A will be sent electronically to a registered taxable person who fails to file returns.
Payments
14.The electronic tax liability register, electronic credit ledger and electronic cash ledger will be maintained on the common portal for every registered person.
15.The electronic tax liability register shall be debited with amount of tax, interest, late fee, mismatch in credits, etc. It shall be credited with amount paid through electronic cash register or electronic credit register.
16.The electronic credit ledger of taxpayer will show the details of invoice and amount of credit. It will also show details of credit matchingor mismatching.
17.The electronic cash ledger shall be credited with the amount deposited and debiting with the payment therefrom towards tax interest, penalty, fee or any other amount.
18.The final acceptance of input credit will be made available to registered taxable person through Form GST ITC 1 electronically.
Refund
19.The refund claimed in Part B of GSTR-3 shall be deemed to be an application filed for refund.
20.The provisional refund, i.e., 80% of refund claimed shall be granted on satisfaction of following conditions:-
 Person claiming refund has not been prosecuted for any offence under GST during any 5 preceding years. If he has been prosecuted under an earlier law, the amount of tax evaded should not exceed Rs.2,50,000.
 GST compliance rating of the applicant is not less than 5 on a scale of 10.
 No proceeding for any appeal, review or revision is pending on issues which form the basis of the refund andif pending, the same has not been stayed by the appropriate authority or court.
21.Refund shall be granted after adjusting any outstanding demand payable by the applicant.
22.If Proper Officer is satisfied that refund is not payable then he shall issue a notice requiring applicant to furnish a reply within 15 days.
23.Any amount rejected as refund shall be re-credited to the electronic credit ledger.
24.Person claiming refund of tax paid on inward supplies shall apply for refund in FORM GST RFD-10 once in every quarter.