• January 10 : File GSTR-1 for December 2024. This is crucial to ensure your input tax credit remains intact and avoid disruptions in your cash flow.

• January 14 (Makar Sankranti) : Businesses in retail, food, and hospitality should prepare for a surge in sales. This festival brings increased spending, especially on traditional goods. Plan your inventory and promotions to make the most of the festive demand.

• January 26 (Republic Day) : Use this day to connect with your audience through patriotic campaigns. Consider special discounts, social media posts, or CSR activities that resonate with the spirit of the day.

Make January the foundation of a successful year by aligning your financial and marketing plans.

• February 7 : TDS payment for January is due. Ensure timely payment to maintain compliance and avoid interest or penalties.

• February 26 (Maha Shivaratri) : If your business caters to religious products or services, expect heightened demand. This is also a good time for travel agencies and hospitality businesses to tap into pilgrimage-related services.

Additionally, February is an excellent month to evaluate your mid-quarter performance and make adjustments to your strategies as needed.

• March 15 : The last installment of advance tax for FY 2024-25 is due. Double-check your tax estimates and clear outstanding amounts to avoid interest charges.

• March 31 : This marks the end of the financial year. Use this opportunity to close your books, reconcile accounts, and prepare for audits. Start early to avoid last-minute chaos.

In March, accountants and tax professionals are often swamped. Secure their assistance in advance to ensure smooth compliance.

This is also a good time to review your annual performance and plan for the upcoming financial year.

• April 1 : Begin implementing your strategies for FY 2025-26. Whether it’s increasing efficiency, reducing costs, or exploring new markets, April is the time to start.

• April 10 (Mahavir Jayanti) : Many businesses, especially in regions with a significant Jain population, might observe closures. Plan your operations accordingly to minimize disruptions.

• April 15 : File GSTR-3B for March 2025. Staying on top of GST compliance ensures smoother operations and fewer disruptions.

April offers a fresh perspective for businesses.

Use this month to motivate your team and align everyone with the year’s objectives.

• May 1 (Labour Day) : Dedicate this day to appreciating your employees. Consider hosting events, giving bonuses, or simply acknowledging their contributions. Happy employees are key to a successful business.

• May 31 : TDS return filing for Q4 of FY 2024-25 is due. Filing on time not only avoids penalties but also reflects positively on your business's financial discipline.

May is also an excellent month to focus on team-building activities.

As the financial year’s initial excitement settles, fostering a positive work environment becomes crucial.

• June 15 : Pay the first installment of advance tax for FY 2025-26. This is a good time to review your profits and set realistic tax estimates.

• June 30 : File income tax returns for non-audit cases. Early filing reduces the chances of errors and ensures a smoother process.

Mid-year is also the time to reassess your business goals.

Look at what’s working and make adjustments to strategies that aren’t delivering the expected results.

• August 15 (Independence Day) : Roll out special campaigns or CSR initiatives to engage with customers and employees alike.

• September 10-15 (Ganesh Chaturthi) : This festive period sees a massive increase in demand for decor, food, and gifts. Prepare early to meet the seasonal rush.

Festivals are not just about sales but also about brand building. Use this period to strengthen your connection with customers.

• October 21 (Dussehra) : A major shopping period, especially for apparel, electronics, and home goods. Plan offers and marketing strategies to capitalize on this festive spirit.

• November 21 (Diwali) : The biggest shopping festival in India. Craft your campaigns early and stock up to meet the demand.

• December 25 (Christmas) : Although not a traditional Indian festival, Christmas is increasingly popular in urban markets. Leverage the global festive spirit to boost year-end sales.

The year-end is also the perfect time to thank your customers and employees.

Consider hosting appreciation events or sending personalized thank-you messages.