Yes, it is required to file nil return, if u will not do the same penalty for not filing return will be applicable on assessee.
penalty for late filling return will be applicable as per rule 7C of service tax Rules 1994.
calculation of payment for delay of filing return will be as follow:
i. pay for 1st fifteen days from the prescribed date - 500 rs.
ii. beyond fifteen days but not later than thirty days- 1000 rs.
iii. beyond thirty days - 100rs for every day from the thirty first day till the date of furnishing the said return.
provided that the total amount payable in term of this rule, for delay of submission of return, shall not exceed the amount specified under section 70 of the Finance ACt, 1994. ( i.e. Rs.20000)
if any other query relating to service tax and excise than contact me on my mail id arpit.akiko @ gmail.com.
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Arpit Verma
+91 9540688557