How to Track GST Refund Application Status

Goods and Services Tax (GST) is a revolutionary tax reform that has transformed the Indian taxation system completely. The GST system has brought a lot of transparency and efficiency in the taxation process, but it has also increased the compliance burden on the taxpayers. One of the most crucial things that taxpayers need to keep in mind is the GST refund application status. In this article, we will explain all the things that taxpayers need to know about how to track GST refund application status.

What is GST Refund?

GST refund is the amount of tax that is refunded to the taxpayers when they have paid more tax than they are liable to pay. There are various reasons why taxpayers may be eligible for GST refund, such as export of goods or services, deemed exports, refund of accumulated input tax credit, etc. When a taxpayer applies for a GST refund, they need to keep track of the application status to ensure timely payment of the refund.

How to Track GST Refund Application Status?

There are two ways to track GST refund application status:

1. Online Method:

The online method is the most convenient and time-saving way to track GST refund application status. Here are the steps to track GST refund application status online:

Visit the GST portal at https://www.gst.gov.in/
Log in using your credentials
Click on the ‘Services’ tab and select ‘Refunds’
Click on ‘Track Application Status’
Select the refund type, i.e., IGST, CGST, SGST, or Cess
Enter the ARN (Application Reference Number) that was generated when you filed the refund application
Click on the ‘Search’ button
The refund application status will be displayed on the screen

2. Offline Method:

The offline method is suitable for taxpayers who do not have access to the internet or face any technical issues while tracking the GST refund application status online. Here are the steps to track GST refund application status offline:

Call the GST helpdesk at 0124-4688999 or send an email to helpdesk@gst.gov.in
Provide the ARN to the helpdesk executive or mention it in the email
The helpdesk executive will provide the latest status of the refund application

What are the Different GST Refund Statuses?

When you track GST refund application status, you may come across various statuses. Here are the different GST refund statuses and their meanings:

1. Submitted: When the taxpayer has filed the refund application, and it has been submitted to the tax authorities

2. Assigned: When the refund application has been assigned to a tax officer for verification and processing

3. Approved: When the refund application has been approved by the tax officer, and the refund amount will be credited to the taxpayer’s bank account soon

4. Rejected: When the tax officer rejects the refund application due to some discrepancies or errors in the application

5. Returned: When the tax officer returns the refund application to the taxpayer for some clarifications or additional information

Conclusion

Tracking the GST refund application status is crucial for taxpayers to ensure timely payment of the refund. The online method is the most convenient and efficient way to track GST refund application status. Taxpayers should keep in mind the different GST refund statuses and their meanings to understand the status of their refund application. If you face any issues while tracking the GST refund application status, you can always contact the GST helpdesk for assistance.