Relaxation in GST due to COVID-19 pandemic

Recently, changes have been made vide CGST Notifications dated 23-3-2020 and 3-4-2020, in respect of filing GSTR-3B & GSTR-1 returns for the period February 2020 to May 2020. The extension is due to COVID-19 pandemic (Corona Virus). There is impression in some quarters that due dates of filing of GSTR-1 and GSTR-3B return has been extended. In fact, it is not so. There are only relaxations in respect of filing these returns to be filed for tax period February 2020 to May 2020 & there is relaxation in respect of interest on late payment. These can be termed as “extended dates”.
If the returns have been filed beyond ‘due dates’ but on or before specified ‘extended dates’, late fee will not be payable. Further, interest will be reduced/waived, only if returns are filed and taxes are paid on or before ‘extended date. If not so done, interest @ 18% & late fee as applicable and is payable from ‘due date’ & not from ‘extended date’. If you miss this trap of distinction between ‘due date’ and ‘extended date’ for filing return, you can come in deep trouble.