What entrepreneurs need to know
Even the most careful businesses can make mistakes when filing GST returns. The good news is, Singapore’s Inland Revenue Authority (IRAS) allows businesses to correct these errors by filing a GST F7 (Disclosure of Errors on GST Return).
This guide breaks down when and how to file GST F7, the available administrative concession, timelines, and penalties — all explained in simple, SME-friendly language.
1. When Do You File GST F7?
You must file GST F7 if you discover errors in your previously submitted GST F5, F7, or F8. Examples of common mistakes include:
- Omitting sales (output tax) or purchases (input tax)
- Misreporting output tax figures
- Over-accounting or under-claiming GST
⚠ Note: You do not need to adjust the revenue figure in Box 13 even if an error is found there.
2. Administrative Concession for Small Errors
As an administrative concession, you may correct small errors in your next GST F5 instead of filing GST F7 — but only if both conditions are met:
- Net GST error is ≤ $3,000 across all affected periods.
- Net GST error = additional output tax (Box 6) – additional input tax (Box 7).
- Total error for other boxes (except Box 6, 7, 12) ≤ 5% of total supplies (Box 4).
- If no supplies were made, use 5% of taxable purchases (Box 5).
If either condition is not met, you must file a GST F7.
👉 Use the GST F7 calculator provided by IRAS to check eligibility.
3. Claiming GST Refunds
If you overpaid GST (e.g., over-accounted output tax or under-claimed input tax), you can also file a GST F7 to claim a refund.
- Claims must be made within 5 years from the end of the relevant accounting period.
- A valid claim requires full quantification of all errors and must be supported by documents such as credit notes.
4. Filing the GST F7
Filing is done electronically via myTax Portal:
- Log in → GST → “File GST Return / Edit Past Return” → Request GST F7.
- Enter the accounting period and proceed.
- File within 14 days of request, otherwise your request lapses.
- Fill in revised figures for all boxes (1–17).
- State the reason for errors in the “Description of Errors” field.
The GST F7 supersedes all previously filed returns (F5/F7/F8) for that period.
5. Consolidating Errors Across Multiple Periods
If errors affect more than one period in a year, you may consolidate and file one GST F7 for the last affected period in the year.
- Report the original figures + consolidated errors in the final GST F7 of the year.
- State clearly in “Description of Errors” that the adjustments cover multiple periods.
6. Payment After Filing GST F7
- With GIRO: IRAS will schedule a deduction — ensure sufficient funds and limits.
- Without GIRO: A 14-digit payment slip number will be provided. Pay via PayNow QR, AXS, or Internet Banking.
7. Timelines & Penalties
- Correction Deadline: Errors must be corrected within 5 years from the end of the relevant accounting period.
- Late Corrections: If corrected more than 1 year after the period, penalties may apply.
- Incorrect Returns: Penalties can be up to 200% of tax undercharged, plus fines or imprisonment for serious cases.
- Voluntary Disclosure: Penalties may be reduced if errors are disclosed voluntarily under IRAS’ Voluntary Disclosure Program.
Summary Table: Correcting Errors in GST Returns
Situation | What To Do | Deadline | Notes |
Small errors (≤ $3,000 net GST & ≤ 5% supplies) | Adjust in next GST F5 | Next return | Use GST F7 calculator to confirm |
Larger errors or not meeting both criteria | File GST F7 | Within 14 days of request | Supersedes earlier return |
Errors across multiple periods | Consolidate & file one GST F7 for last period of the year | Same year-end filing | Must state clearly in description |
Overpaid/under-claimed GST | File GST F7 for refund | Within 5 years | Provide full quantification & documents |
Failure to correct errors | Penalty up to 200% of underpaid tax, fines, imprisonment | — | Reduced penalties for voluntary disclosure |
Key Takeaway for Entrepreneurs
Mistakes in GST filing are common — what matters is how quickly and accurately you correct them. Using GST F7 properly not only avoids heavy penalties but also shows IRAS that your business is committed to compliance.
Disclaimer: This article is based on IRAS guidelines on GST filing and the correction of errors (GST F7). It is provided for general guidance only and does not constitute tax advice. For advice specific to your business, consult a qualified tax advisor.
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