08 November 2017
However, the intention of indirect taxes is that tax must be suffered by the ultimate consumer. In this case, the issuing company is the ultimate consumer. From this point, can ITC be claimed?
27 July 2024
The availability of GST credit for expenses related to Initial Public Offerings (IPO) can be a complex area, and it hinges on the specific nature of the expenses and their usage. Here’s a detailed explanation of the relevant considerations:
### **1. Nature of IPO Expenses:** IPO expenses generally include various costs such as underwriting fees, legal fees, printing and distribution costs, and advisory fees. The treatment of GST on these expenses depends on their classification and the nature of services received.
### **2. **Section 17(5) of the CGST Act:** **Section 17(5)** of the CGST Act outlines the circumstances where Input Tax Credit (ITC) is blocked or not allowed. This section specifically lists categories of goods and services where ITC cannot be claimed. For instance, ITC is not available on: - **Personal Consumption**: Goods and services used for personal consumption. - **Construction of Immovable Property**: ITC is blocked on construction services for immovable property (unless used for making further taxable supplies). - **Other Specific Exemptions**: Various other categories where ITC is restricted.
### **3. **IPO Expenses and ITC:** For IPO-related expenses: - **Legal and Professional Services**: Generally, GST paid on legal, advisory, and professional services related to IPO is eligible for ITC. These services are considered to be in the nature of business-related expenses, and thus the ITC is typically available unless specifically blocked. - **Underwriting Fees and Other Services**: Similarly, fees paid to underwriters and other related services, if billed with GST, should generally qualify for ITC, provided they are used for business purposes.
### **4. **Ultimate Consumer Concept:** - The principle that tax must be borne by the ultimate consumer is relevant, but it does not directly impact the eligibility of ITC for businesses. If a company incurs expenses related to its IPO and is not making any taxable supplies from such expenses (e.g., the IPO is part of a capital restructuring), then the nature of the end-use does not necessarily preclude ITC unless specifically blocked.
### **5. **Practical Considerations:** - **Documentary Evidence**: Ensure that all invoices for IPO-related expenses are in proper form with GST charged clearly and documented. The invoices should be in the name of the issuing company. - **Accounting for ITC**: Record the GST paid on these expenses in your input tax credit ledger and ensure proper reporting in your GST returns.
### **6. **Consultation and Compliance:** - **Consult with Tax Advisors**: Given the complexities and specific nature of IPO-related expenses, consulting with a tax advisor or GST practitioner is advisable. They can provide clarity on the applicability of ITC based on your specific circumstances and ensure compliance with current GST laws and notifications.
### **Conclusion:** In summary, GST credit on IPO expenses such as legal, advisory, and other related costs should generally be available unless the expenses are for exempt or non-business purposes. The key is to ensure that these expenses are correctly documented and comply with the GST rules for claiming ITC. Always consult with a professional for specific advice tailored to your situation.