VakeelKerala.com connects you with tax lawyers who bring comprehensive knowledge of GST, income tax, Kerala Flood Cess, and the full spectrum of direct and indirect tax matters. Our advocates represent clients before GST authorities, income tax officers, appellate tribunals, the High Court of Kerala, and the Supreme Court.
How Our GST & Tax Lawyers Help You
- GST registration, compliance, and return filing guidance
- GST disputes — show cause notices, demand orders, and penalty challenges
- Representation before GST authorities and the GST Appellate Tribunal
- Income tax disputes — assessment challenges, penalty proceedings, and prosecution defence
- Tax planning and advisory — legitimate tax optimisation for individuals and businesses
- Appeals before CIT (Appeals), ITAT, High Court, and Supreme Court
- Search and seizure proceedings — representation during tax raids and subsequent assessments
- TDS/TCS compliance issues and rectification
- Kerala Flood Cess and state-level levy matters
- NRI taxation — income tax obligations for non-residents earning income in India
Frequently Asked Questions — GST & Tax Lawyers
When is GST registration mandatory?
GST registration is mandatory when aggregate turnover exceeds ₹40 lakhs (₹20 lakhs for special category states) for goods, or ₹20 lakhs (₹10 lakhs for special category) for services. Certain categories require mandatory registration regardless of turnover.
What is the Kerala Flood Cess?
The Kerala Flood Cess is a state-level cess imposed on intra-state supplies of goods and services to fund post-flood rehabilitation. It applies as an additional levy over and above GST.
What should I do if I receive a GST show cause notice?
Do not ignore it. Consult a tax lawyer immediately. You have a limited time to respond. Your lawyer will analyse the notice, gather supporting documents, and draft a comprehensive response to protect your interests.
Can GST penalties be challenged?
Yes. GST penalties can be appealed before the GST Appellate Authority, then the GST Appellate Tribunal, the High Court, and ultimately the Supreme Court. Many penalties are successfully reduced or overturned on appeal.
Do NRIs need to pay income tax in India?
NRIs are taxed in India only on income earned or received in India (e.g., rental income, capital gains from Indian assets, interest from Indian bank accounts). Their foreign income is not taxable in India.
What is advance tax and who must pay it?
Advance tax is the pre-payment of income tax in instalments during the financial year (rather than as a lump sum at year-end). It is mandatory when your total tax liability exceeds ₹10,000 in a financial year.
Can tax disputes be settled without going to court?
Yes. Various dispute resolution mechanisms exist including Vivad Se Vishwas schemes, settlement commissions, and mediation. Your lawyer can advise on the most suitable approach.
How can VakeelKerala help with a tax raid?
Our lawyers provide immediate assistance during search and seizure operations — ensuring your rights are protected, documents are properly inventoried, and statements are made with legal guidance. Post-raid, we handle all assessment proceedings.