GST Due Dates 2024

Our comprehensive guide to GST due dates covers all balance dates and includes FAQs for SMEs, expert tips for smooth GST management and must-know considerations.

Updated 30 March 2024

Know This First:

GST Due dates are determined based on your balance date.
Ensure all returns and payments arrive at the IRD before the due date to avoid interest and penalties.
Per the IRD's website, for most businesses, the accounting year begins on April 1 and ends the following March 31 - known as the standard balance date.

Our guide covers:

GST Due Dates - March 31 Balance Date

March 31 Balance Date – Two Monthly GST

June 28: April/May GST Return & Payment Due
28 August: June/July GST Return & Payment Due & 1st Provisional Tax Instalment Due
October 28: August/September GST Return & Payment Due
15 January: October/November GST Return & Payment Due & 2nd Provisional Tax Instalment Due
February 28: December/January GST Return & Payment Due
April 7: Terminal Tax Due
7 May: February/March GST Return & Payment Due & 3rd Provisional Tax Instalment Due

March 31 Balance Date – Six Monthly GST

28 October: April/September GST Return & Payment Due & 1st Provisional Tax Instalment Due
7 May: October/March GST Return & Payment Due & 2nd Provisional Tax Instalment Due

Other Balance Dates and GST Due Dates - May 31, June 30, September 30 and December 31

May 31 Balance Date
Two Monthly GST:

August 28: June/July GST Return & Payment Due
October 28: August/September GST Return & Payment Due & 1st Provisional Tax Instalment Due
January 15: October/November GST Return & Payment Due
February 28: December/January GST Return & Payment Due & 2nd Provisional Tax Instalment Due
April 7: Terminal Tax Payment Due
May 7: February/March GST Return & Payment Due
June 28: April/May GST Return & Payment Due & 3rd Provisional Tax Instalment Due

Six Monthly GST:

October 28: May/October GST Return & Payment Due & 1st Provisional Tax Instalment Due
May 7: November/April GST Return & Payment Due & 2nd Provisional Tax Instalment Due

June 30 Balance Date
Two Monthly GST:

September 28: July/August GST Return & Payment Due
November 28: September/October GST Return & Payment Due & 1st Provisional Tax Instalment Due
January 28: November/December GST Return & Payment Due
March 28: January/February GST Return & Payment Due & 2nd Provisional Tax Instalment Due
April 7: Terminal Tax Due
May 28: March/April GST Return & Payment Due
July 28: May/June GST Return & Payment Due & 3rd Provisional Tax Instalment Due

Six Monthly GST:

November 28: June/November GST Return & Payment Due & 1st Provisional Tax Instalment Due
May 28: December/May GST Return & Payment Due & 2nd Provisional Tax Instalment Due

September 30 Balance Date
Two Monthly GST:

November 28: September/October GST Return & Payment Due
January 28: November/December GST Return & Payment Due & 1st Provisional Tax Instalment Due
March 28: January/February GST Return & Payment Due
May 28: March/April GST Return & Payment Due & 2nd Provisional Tax Instalment Due
July 28: May/June GST Return & Payment Due
September 28: July/August GST Return & Payment Due & 3rd Provisional Tax Instalment Due

Six Monthly GST:

March 28: October/March GST Return & Payment Due & 1st Provisional Tax Instalment Due
September 28: April/September GST Return & Payment Due & 2nd Provisional Tax Instalment Due

December 31 Balance Date
Two Monthly GST:

February 28: December/January GST Return & Payment Due
April 28: February/March GST Return & Payment Due & 1st Provisional Tax Instalment Due
June 28: April/May GST Return & Payment Due
August 28: June/July GST Return & Payment Due & 2nd Provisional Tax Instalment Due
October 7: Terminal Tax Due
November 28: August/September GST Return & Payment Due
January 28: October/November GST Return & Payment Due & 3rd Provisional Tax Instalment Due

Six Monthly GST:

April 28: December/May GST Return & Payment Due & 1st Provisional Tax Instalment Due
November 28: June/November GST Return & Payment Due & 2nd Provisional Tax Instalment Due

Frequently Asked Questions for SMEs about GST Payments and Due Dates

What happens if I miss a due date?

If payments or returns aren't submitted by the due date, the IRD may charge interest and penalties.

Can I change my balance date?

It is possible, but specific conditions apply. It is advisable to consult with the IRD or a tax professional before making any changes.

What if my financial year-end date isn't listed above?

The dates provided are based on common year-end dates. If yours isn't listed, contact the IRD for guidance.

How do I ensure that I always meet my GST obligations on time?

Many SMEs use accounting software or hire accountants to manage their financial records and GST obligations. Setting calendar reminders, keeping organized records, and regular financial reviews can also help ensure timely payments and filings.

Can I apply for an extension if I know I won't make the due date?

The IRD may grant extensions in specific circumstances, but it's essential to communicate with them ahead of the due date. Seeking advice from a tax professional can also be beneficial in such situations.

How is the GST amount I owe calculated?

GST is generally calculated as 15% of the sales price of goods and services. You deduct the GST you've been charged on business expenses from the GST you've collected from sales. The difference is what you owe to the IRD. Our GST calculator shows how this works.

What if I overpay my GST due?

If you overpay your GST, the excess amount can typically be credited to your future tax liabilities or refunded by the IRD. Ensure you keep clear records and notify the IRD of any discrepancies.

GST Payments and Considerations

Tips for Smooth GST Management:

Leverage Accounting Software: Modern accounting software like Xero automatically tracks, calculates, and sometimes even files your GST obligations. This can significantly reduce manual errors and save time.
Financial Discipline: To avoid scrambling for funds when GST is due, make it a habit to regularly set aside a percentage of your revenue for GST. A separate bank account or a dedicated fund can be especially useful.
Professional Help: While managing finances can be a DIY task, GST and tax matters can get complex. Engage a tax professional or accountant to ensure your GST filing is accurate, compliant, and timely.

Extensions & Special Circumstances:

Applying for Extensions: The IRD might allow extensions for GST return filing in specific circumstances. If you anticipate difficulties meeting a deadline, contact the IRD well in advance to discuss potential extensions. Documentation or evidence supporting your reason might be required.
Non-Standard Due Dates: There can be situations where standard due dates may not apply or can be adjusted, particularly if your business experiences unique circumstances such as natural disasters, significant disruptions, or other unexpected events. Always consult with the IRD or a tax professional in such situations.

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

Record-Keeping: One of the most common mistakes businesses make is not keeping detailed, chronological records of all transactions. This can lead to inaccuracies during GST calculations and potential issues with the IRD.
GST Calculation Errors: Miscalculations can easily occur, especially when dealing with partial GST claims or unique tax situations. Regular reviews or using accounting software can help catch and rectify these errors.
Forgetting GST Credits: Many businesses miss out on claiming GST credits they're entitled to. Ensure you know what you can claim and have the documentation to back up each claim.

Online Resources & Tools:

GST Calculators & Apps:

GST Calculator (MoneyHub Tool)

Official IRD Resources:

Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and may not cover all individual circumstances. Always consult with a tax professional or the IRD directly for specific guidance.

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