31 July 2024
For a courier agency with a turnover of ₹38,00,000 (38 lakhs), the applicable Income Tax Return (ITR) form depends on the type of business and the accounting methods used. Here are the guidelines:
### **1. **ITR Form Applicability**
- **ITR-3:** - **Applicability:** If the courier agency is run as a proprietorship or a partnership firm and maintains books of accounts, you should use ITR-3. This form is used for individuals and Hindu Undivided Families (HUFs) who have income from a business or profession. - **Features:** Includes sections for reporting income from business or profession, including profit and loss statements and balance sheets.
- **ITR-4 (Sugam):** - **Applicability:** If the courier agency is eligible to file under the presumptive taxation scheme under Section 44AD of the Income Tax Act, and the turnover does not exceed ₹2 crore, then ITR-4 can be used. - **Features:** Simplified form for businesses opting for presumptive taxation where 8% (or 6% for digital receipts) of turnover is treated as income. Suitable for small businesses that don't maintain detailed books of accounts.
### **2. **Eligibility for ITR-4 under Section 44AD**
- **Turnover Limit:** If the turnover is ₹38,00,000 and the business falls under the presumptive taxation scheme, you can opt for ITR-4. - **Conditions:** - The business should be a resident individual, Hindu Undivided Family (HUF), or a partnership firm (other than LLP). - The business should not be engaged in professions covered under Section 44AA(1), like accounting, interior design, etc. - The business should not have any income from sources such as capital gains, or income from foreign assets.
### **3. **Filing Requirements**
- **Books of Accounts:** If opting for ITR-4 and claiming presumptive taxation, detailed books of accounts are not required, but the turnover must be accurately reported. - **Supporting Documents:** Maintain records of income, expenditure, and other relevant documents for audit purposes if required.
### **Summary**
- **If opting for presumptive taxation under Section 44AD:** Use **ITR-4**. - **If maintaining detailed books of accounts or if not eligible for presumptive taxation:** Use **ITR-3**.
Ensure that you meet all eligibility criteria for the chosen ITR form and consult with a tax professional for accurate filing and compliance.