Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: Adjusted Trial Balance • Bank Feed • Subsidiary Ledger

GST Return

Term from Bookkeeping industry explained for recruiters

A GST Return is a regular financial report that businesses must submit to tax authorities showing how much Goods and Services Tax (GST) they've collected from sales and paid on purchases. It's like a summary of a business's GST activities that helps ensure the right amount of tax is paid to the government. Bookkeepers and accountants handle these returns to help businesses stay compliant with tax laws and avoid penalties. This process is similar to other tax reporting requirements like VAT returns in other countries.

Examples in Resumes

Prepared and lodged monthly GST Returns for 20+ small businesses

Managed timely submission of quarterly GST Return documentation for retail clients

Streamlined GST Returns process reducing preparation time by 40%

Typical job title: "GST Return Preparers"

Also try searching for:

Bookkeeper Tax Accountant BAS Agent Accounts Officer GST Specialist Tax Return Preparer Compliance Officer

Where to Find GST Return Preparers

Professional Associations

Online Communities

Job Boards

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you handle complex GST scenarios like mixed supplies or international transactions?

Expected Answer: Should explain in simple terms how they manage different tax rates, handle exempt items, and deal with international sales or purchases while ensuring compliance with tax laws.

Q: Describe your experience in managing GST compliance for multiple business types.

Expected Answer: Should discuss experience with different business structures (retail, service, manufacturing) and how GST requirements vary for each.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What checks do you perform before submitting a GST return?

Expected Answer: Should mention reviewing sales and purchase records, checking for unusual transactions, reconciling accounts, and ensuring all documentation is properly filed.

Q: How do you handle GST adjustments and corrections from previous periods?

Expected Answer: Should explain the process of identifying errors, making corrections, and properly documenting adjustments in compliance with tax regulations.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What is the basic process of preparing a GST return?

Expected Answer: Should explain gathering sales and purchase information, calculating GST collected and paid, and basic filing procedures.

Q: What are the common deadlines for GST returns?

Expected Answer: Should know standard monthly, quarterly, and annual filing deadlines and basic requirements for different business sizes.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

Basic GST calculations
Data entry and record keeping
Understanding of filing deadlines
Using accounting software

Mid (2-5 years)

Managing multiple client GST returns
Handling basic GST queries
Understanding different business structures
Identifying and fixing common errors

Senior (5+ years)

Complex GST scenarios
Staff training and supervision
Process improvement
Client communication and advisory

Red Flags to Watch For

Unable to explain basic GST concepts
No experience with accounting software
Poor attention to detail
Missed filing deadlines in past roles
Lack of understanding about compliance requirements

Related Terms

Reconciliation