INDIRECT TAX
Indirect Tax Law in India
India's taxation system includes many forms of direct and indirect taxes. A direct tax goes to income, while indirect tax law implicates the tax on consumption, services, and goods. While direct taxes go from the taxpayer to the government directly, indirect taxes are paid from a taxpayer to an intermediary (e.g., retailers and service providers) from there to the end consumer or client.
At VrinLegal, we are consultants dealing with strategic indirect tax consultation. We have a strong understanding of indirect tax law and provide value-driven legal and tax strategy for businesses and stakeholders across sectors.
Main Elements of Indirect Tax Law
Goods and Services Tax (GST)
GST rules introduced in 2017 revamped India's indirect tax structure. GST integrated several forms of tax (including VAT, Service Tax and Excise Duty) into a single unified tax. GST's structure consists of three types of tax, namely:
At VrinLegal, our tax professionals assist with GST registration, compliance with GST rules, input tax credit structuring and GST rules litigation.
Duties on Customs and Excise
GST (Goods and Services Tax) has effectively abolished many of the previous indirect taxes however customs has a relevance in as far as international transport is concerned, and similarly, central excise still applies to non-GST goods like petroleum and alcohol.
As a legal and tax advisory firm with experience in the import-export tax sector, we advise our clients on import-export compliance, customs settlements and disputes before tax tribunals.
Tax law is complex and vast. Understanding the indirect tax within tax law is vital not only to avoid penalties but also to ensure compliance - something that, whether starting up or multinationals, is painful for any business when breaches of indirect tax laws will result in interest and potential litigation.
We not only provide expertise but are unique in the business as a team that brings expertise but acts as a translator between your company and acts as a regulated authorities and display expertise.
Indirect Tax Expert
As opposed to income tax where the information is identified, outlined, and handled by an income tax lawyer; indirect tax issues need a practitioner who is up-to-date with changing GST regulations, customs acts and different forms of duties.
Indirect tax consultants at VrinLegal provides:
The intersection between labour law and tax law is often underappreciated. For example, Employee Provident Fund (EPF), gratuity, and professional tax are examples of types of legislation which have labour compliance and tax implications. At VrinLegal, we recognize the need for holistic legal solutions related to employment benefits, wage structures and their tax consequences.
International Aspects: Tax Treaty and Indirect Tax
While indirect tax is mainly domestic, cross-border transactions may involve tax treaty clauses and rules especially for services under IGST. For businesses with international dealings, it is worth understanding the indirect tax implications of tax treaties on their total indirect tax liabilities.
Our team provides advice on:
Common issues taxpayers face
Indirect tax law requires constant awareness of numerous changes in the law. Some of the common issues faced by taxpayers include:
As one of the premier legal and tax advisory firms, we also address these challenges through due diligence, internal audits and proper compliance frameworks.
When to Contact a Professional
While an income tax lawyer can assist in matters of income-related litigation, a business should seek a practitioner who specializes in indirect tax for:
At VrinLegal, we offer a full range of service in indirect tax law:
Cross-border Indirect Tax: Advisory related to tax treaty impact, foreign service provisions, and place of supply rules. Why Select VrinLegal?
Our Expertise: Our team consists of income tax lawyers and indirect tax specialists, which implies we can deliver holistic advisory services.
Compliance-Focused: We help clients comply with ever-changing GST rules and avoid costly mistakes.
Integrated Approach: We have knowledge in labour law, tax law, and business law, which allows us to provide end-to-end solutions.
Global Perspective: We leverage our experience regarding tax treaty implications for exporters, importers, and multinationals.
Main Legal Updates in Indirect Tax
Recent updates to the indirect tax law and rules covering GST, include:
Staying up to date is important. Our firm is committed to reviewing such changes and advising our clients where actions are required to remain compliant.
Conclusion
Understanding the domain of indirect tax law is no longer optional for businesses—it is essential. As a result of indirect taxes being increasingly subject to complex and digital regulations, expert advice is what you need to help manage the situation. Whether it is seeing a notice regarding GST, trying to get a refund, or having confusion regarding treaty reliant tax effects, help is what you need. VrinLegal can assist with all of these issues. VrinLegal will manage any dispute and negotiate for a settlement and help you focus on your business and regulatory compliance. While the Income Tax lawyer manages any direct tax disputes, we can manage your indirect tax obligations.