What is Proprietorship Compliances?

A proprietorship firm, being a single-owner business entity, has relatively simpler compliance requirements compared to other business structures. Key compliances include obtaining a PAN card for the proprietor, registering under the local municipal authority for a Shop and Establishment license if applicable, and adhering to GST registration if the business turnover exceeds the threshold limit. Proprietors must also file annual income tax returns, maintain proper books of accounts, and ensure timely payment of advance tax if applicable. Additionally, if the business involves specific goods or services, it may require other registrations such as Importer Exporter Code (IEC) for import-export activities. Keeping up with these compliances helps in maintaining legal standing and smooth operation of the business.

Benefits

Adhering to compliances in a proprietorship offers several benefits

  • Legal Recognition and Credibility : Proper registration and compliance enhance the credibility and legal standing of the business, making it more trustworthy to customers, suppliers, and financial institutions.
  • Smooth Operation : Staying compliant with local laws and regulations ensures smooth business operations without the risk of legal penalties or disruptions.
  • Financial Benefits : Complying with tax laws, such as timely filing of returns and payment of taxes, can help in availing various tax benefits and deductions, ultimately reducing the tax burden.
  • Access to Loans and Credit : Compliance with statutory requirements improves the chances of securing loans and credit from banks and financial institutions, as they often prefer dealing with compliant businesses.
  • Business Growth and Expansion : Proper compliance can facilitate business growth and expansion by ensuring eligibility for various government schemes, grants, and incentives designed to support small businesses.
  • Protection from Legal Issues : Following legal requirements helps protect the business from potential legal issues, fines, and penalties, thereby safeguarding the owner's interests.

Maintaining compliance not only fosters trust and growth but also ensures the business operates within the legal framework, minimizing risks and enhancing overall sustainability.

Process / Steps

Here are the typical steps involved in ensuring proprietorship compliances


01

Obtain a PAN Card

The proprietor must obtain a Permanent Account Number (PAN) card, which is necessary for all tax-related activities.

02

Register Business Name

Although not mandatory, registering the business name can provide legal protection and credibility. This can be done through local municipal authorities or state-level business registries.

03

Shop and Establishment License

Depending on the state and nature of the business, the proprietor may need to obtain a Shop and Establishment License from the local municipal authority.

04

GST Registration

If the annual turnover exceeds the prescribed threshold (currently ₹20 lakhs for service providers and ₹40 lakhs for goods suppliers), the proprietor must register for the Goods and Services Tax (GST).

05

Open a Bank Account

A separate bank account in the name of the proprietorship is essential for managing business transactions and maintaining financial records.

06

Maintain Proper Books of Accounts

Keep accurate and up-to-date financial records, including sales, purchases, expenses, and income. This is crucial for tax filing and financial management.

07

File Income Tax Returns

The proprietor must file an annual income tax return, declaring the business income and expenses. If the income exceeds the basic exemption limit, advance tax payments may also be required.

08

Compliance with Other Regulations

Depending on the nature of the business, additional registrations and compliances may be necessary, such as the Importer Exporter Code (IEC) for import-export activities, or licenses specific to certain industries.

09

Annual Audit

If the turnover exceeds a specified limit (currently ₹1 crore for business and ₹50 lakhs for profession), the accounts must be audited by a certified Chartered Accountant.

010

Renewals and Updates

Ensure timely renewal of licences and registrations and update any changes in business details with the relevant authorities.

Following these steps ensures that the proprietorship remains compliant with legal and regulatory requirements, fostering a stable and legally sound business environment.

Documents Required

To ensure proper compliance for a proprietorship, the following documents are generally required

  • Proprietor's PAN Card : Essential for all tax-related activities and financial transactions.
  • Identity Proof of Proprietor : Aadhar card, voter ID, passport, or driving licence.
  • Address Proof of Proprietor : Utility bill, rental agreement, or any government-issued address proof.
  • Business Address Proof : Utility bill, rental agreement, or property tax receipt for the business premises.
  • Bank Account Details : Bank account statement or cancelled cheque for the business account.
  • Shop and Establishment License : Registration certificate from the local municipal authority if applicable.
  • GST Registration Certificate : Required if the annual turnover exceeds the prescribed threshold or if GST registration is otherwise mandatory.
  • Trade License : Depending on the nature of the business, a trade licence from the local municipal authority might be necessary.
  • Professional Tax Registration : In states where professional tax is applicable, registration proof is required.
  • Import Export Code (IEC) : Required for businesses engaged in import and export activities.
  • Financial Records : Properly maintained books of accounts, including sales, purchases, expenses, and income records.
  • Income Tax Returns (ITR) : Copies of filed ITR for the proprietorship.
  • Proof of Business Name Registration : If the business name is registered separately with the local or state authorities.

Having these documents ready ensures smooth compliance with legal and regulatory requirements, facilitating hassle-free business operations.

Our Support?

SS AUDITORS can provide significant support to proprietorships in maintaining compliances through the following ways

  • Financial Statement Preparation : Auditors assist in preparing accurate financial statements, including balance sheets, profit and loss accounts, and cash flow statements, ensuring they comply with accounting standards.
  • Tax Compliance : SS AUDITORS help with the accurate calculation of taxes, timely filing of income tax returns, and ensuring compliance with GST regulations. They also provide guidance on tax planning and help claim eligible deductions.
  • Regulatory Filings : We ensure timely and accurate submission of necessary regulatory filings, such as GST returns, TDS returns, and other statutory reports.
  • Audit Services : For proprietorships with turnovers exceeding specified limits, auditing companies conduct statutory audits, ensuring compliance with financial regulations and identifying areas for improvement in financial practices.
  • Internal Controls : Auditors from SS AUDITORS review and suggest improvements for internal controls and financial processes, minimising the risk of errors and fraud.
  • Advisory Services : We offer advisory services on various compliance matters, including registration requirements, maintaining proper books of accounts, and adhering to state-specific regulations.
  • Compliance Checklists : SS AUDITORS provide comprehensive compliance checklists tailored to the proprietorship's business, ensuring all legal and regulatory requirements are met.
  • Training and Support : We offer training for the proprietor and staff on compliance-related matters, ensuring everyone is aware of their roles and responsibilities.
  • Risk Management : SS AUDITORS help identify and mitigate financial and compliance risks, ensuring the business operates smoothly within the legal framework.
  • Representation : In case of audits or inquiries by tax authorities, SS AUDITORS represent the proprietorship, providing necessary documentation and explanations.

By offering these services, SS AUDITORS help proprietorships maintain legal compliance, improve financial management, and reduce the risk of penalties and legal issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

Key registrations include obtaining a PAN card, a Shop and Establishment licence (if applicable), and GST registration if the turnover exceeds the threshold limit. Depending on the business nature, other specific licences may also be required.

Registration of the firm itself is not mandatory, but obtaining necessary licences and registrations, such as a Shop and Establishment licence and GST registration, is required for legal compliance.

A proprietorship must file annual income tax returns, maintain proper books of accounts, and, if applicable, file GST returns. Advance tax payments might also be required if the income exceeds certain thresholds.

Yes, proprietorship firms must maintain proper books of accounts, including records of sales, purchases, expenses, and income, to ensure accurate tax filings and financial management.

Required documents include the proprietor's PAN card, Aadhaar card, proof of business address (like a utility bill or rental agreement), bank account details, and photographs of the proprietor.