Section 59 – Self-Assessment
Section 59 of CGST Act, 2017 – Self-Assessment Updated on: February 2026 (as applicable till date) Prepared by: Yours Tax Consultant 1. Concept and Importance of Self-Assessment Section 59 introduces the principle of self-assessment , which is the cornerstone of the GST system. Under GST, the responsibility to: Assess tax liability Declare correct details Pay due tax rests primarily on the taxpayer . 2. Statutory Provision – Section 59 Section 59: Every registered person shall self-assess the taxes payable under this Act and furnish a return for each tax period as specified under section 39. 3. Meaning of Self-Assessment Self-assessment means: Taxpayer determines tax liability on his own No prior assessment order by tax authority Return filed is treated as self-assessment The department may later verify or scrutinise the return. 4. Link between Section 59 and Returns Self-assessment under Section 59 is implemented thr...