29 April 2014
Dear Experts, While applying for a service tax number, some how I was provided with 2 account numbers by the authorities in a gap of few days. I started using one of the ST number that I got and did not use the other one at all. By mistake for the last 2 quarters the ST payment I made was done in the non used ST account. Now the problem is 1. The collection of service tax and the payment are in 2 different accounts. 2. How should I file the ST return already due. 3. Can the payment of ST be transferred to the other (used) account given that both the accounts are in the same name.
09 August 2024
Here’s a comprehensive approach to addressing the issues related to payment on the wrong Service Tax number:
### **1. Filing the ST Return**
**a. File the ST Return for the Used ST Number:** - **For the Correct Account:** Ensure that you file the ST return for the account that you have been using for your service tax operations. This return should reflect the actual service tax collected and payable as per your records. - **For the Incorrect Account:** You should also file a return for the incorrect ST number. In this return, you will have to show that no service tax was collected or payable under this number, or if applicable, you may mention that the payment was mistakenly made to this account.
**b. Reconciliation:** Ensure reconciliation of records between both ST numbers to prevent future discrepancies.
### **2. Transfer of Payment**
**a. Transfer of Payment:** - **Direct Transfer Not Possible:** The Service Tax authorities typically do not allow a direct transfer of payment between ST numbers. The payments made to the incorrect account cannot be directly transferred to the correct account.
**b. Process to Correct the Issue:** - **Make Payment Again:** You should make the correct service tax payment to the correct ST number immediately. - **Apply for Refund:** You will need to apply for a refund of the service tax paid to the incorrect ST account.
### **3. Procedure for Refund**
**a. Apply for Refund:** - **Prepare a Refund Claim:** File a refund claim with the Service Tax department for the amount erroneously paid. Use Form R. This form is used for claiming a refund of excess service tax paid or any other tax that is not payable. - **Documentation Required:** Provide all necessary documentation to support your refund claim, including: - Proof of payment made to the incorrect account. - Proof of service tax liability for the correct account. - Any correspondence or explanation supporting your claim. - **Submission:** Submit the refund claim form along with supporting documents to the Service Tax department.
**b. Follow Up:** - **Acknowledgment:** Ensure you get an acknowledgment receipt for your refund claim. - **Monitoring:** Follow up with the department to track the status of your refund claim. The processing time may vary, so maintain proper records and keep checking on the status.
### **4. Recommendations**
**a. Rectify the Mistake Promptly:** - **Make the Correct Payment:** Ensure that you make the correct payment to the correct ST number as soon as possible. - **File Returns Accurately:** File accurate returns for both ST numbers to reflect the correct service tax liabilities.
**b. Apply for Refund:** Apply for the refund of the erroneously paid service tax as outlined above.
**c. Prevent Future Issues:** - **Review Processes:** Implement measures to prevent similar issues in the future, such as verifying ST numbers before making payments. - **Consultation:** Consider consulting a tax professional to assist with the refund process and ensure compliance with all regulations.
### **Summary**
1. **File the ST returns** for both the correct and incorrect ST numbers. 2. **Make the correct payment** to the right ST account and apply for a refund for the amount paid to the incorrect account. 3. **Maintain proper records** and follow up with the Service Tax department for your refund claim.
This approach helps to correct the issue while ensuring compliance with service tax regulations and maintaining proper financial records.