GST Tracking – How to Track GST Registration, Return & Refund Status
The Goods and Services Tax (GST) regime in India mandates businesses and individuals to comply with various filings and processes. An essential part of this compliance is the ability to track GST registration, return filings, and refund statuses effectively. Whether you're a business owner, accountant, or tax professional, knowing how to monitor your GST progress helps avoid penalties, missed deadlines, and compliance issues. Let’s explore the complete process of GST tracking using various methods available on the GST portal.
What is GST Tracking?
GST tracking refers to the process of monitoring the status of various GST-related activities, including:
GST registration status
GST return filing status
GST refund status
GST verification using GSTIN
Tracking GST statuses is crucial for businesses to ensure smooth operations, avoid legal complications, and maintain transparency with suppliers and customers.
How to Track GST Registration Status Online?
You can easily track the status of your GST registration application online using the Application Reference Number (ARN) or GSTIN. Here’s a detailed, step-by-step guide:
1. Tracking GST Registration Status Without Logging In
Visit the official GST portal
On the homepage, go to the ‘Services’ tab.
Navigate to ‘Registration’ > ‘Track Application Status’.
In the ‘Module’ dropdown, select ‘Registration’.
Enter your ARN (Application Reference Number) or SRN (Service Request Number) received via email after submitting your application.
Enter the Captcha code as shown on the screen.
Click ‘SEARCH’.
The status of your GST registration application will be displayed. The progress is often shown in color-coded phases, with the current stage highlighted in green.
2. Tracking GST Registration Status After Logging In
Log in to the GST portal using your credentials.
Go to ‘Services’ > ‘Track Application Status’.
Select ‘Registration’ from the dropdown menu.
Enter the ARN, SRN, or select the date range of submission.
The portal will display the application status, along with other relevant details.
3. Tracking GST Registration Status Using GSTIN
On the GST portal, you can also check the status using your GSTIN (if allotted) by selecting the appropriate option under ‘Search Taxpayer’.
Types of Application Status You May See
Pending for processing: Application is under review.
Pending for clarification: Additional information or documents are required.
Clarification filed, pending for order: Clarification submitted, awaiting officer’s decision.
Clarification not filed, pending for order: No clarification submitted, pending decision.
Approved: Registration granted.
Rejected: Application denied.
Withdrawn: Application withdrawn by applicant.
How to Track GST Return Filing Status?
You can track your GST return filing status online through the official GST portal using various options such as ARN (Application Reference Number), return filing period, or return status. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Visit the GST Portal: Go to the official GST portal.
Log in to Your Account:
Click the ‘Login’ button on the top right corner.
Enter your username and password to access your dashboard
Navigate to Track Return Status:
On your dashboard, click on the ‘Services’ tab.
Go to ‘Returns’ and select ‘Track Return Status’ from the dropdown menu.
Choose Your Preferred Tracking Method: You can track your GST return filing status using any of the following methods:
a. Using ARN (Application Reference Number):
Select the ‘ARN’ option.
Enter the ARN you received when you submitted your return (sent to your registered email/SMS).
Click the ‘Search’ button.
The status of your GST return will be displayed.
b. Using Return Filing Period:
Select the ‘Return Filing Period’ option.
Use the calendar to select the start and end dates for the period you wish to check (format: DD/MM/YYYY).
Click the ‘Search’ button.
The portal will display the status of all returns filed during that period.
c. Using Return Status:
Select the ‘Status’ option.
Choose the specific return status (e.g., Filed-Valid, Filed-Invalid, Validated but not filed) from the dropdown menu.
Click the ‘Search’ button.
A list of all returns matching the selected status will be shown.
View the Status: The system will display the current status of your GST return (e.g., Filed-Valid, Filed-Invalid, Submitted but not filed, To be Filed).
How to Track GST Refund Status?
You can track your GST refund application status both with and without logging in to the GST portal. Here’s a detailed, stepwise guide:
1. Tracking GST Refund Status Without Logging In
Visit the GST Portal
On the homepage, go to Services > Track Application Status.
Select the ‘Refund’ option from the Module dropdown.
Enter your ARN (Application Reference Number) received after filing your refund application.
Enter the Captcha code and click ‘SEARCH’.
The portal will display a brief status of your refund application, with color-coded stages indicating progress. More detailed information is available after logging in.
2. Tracking GST Refund Status After Logging In
Log in to the GST Portal with your username and password.
Navigate to Services > Track Application Status.
Select ‘Refund’ from the Module dropdown.
You can search by:
ARN: Enter the ARN and click SEARCH.
Filing Year: Select the year and click SEARCH. A list of all refund applications filed that year will be displayed. Click the ARN hyperlink for details.
The portal will show detailed status, including tax period, claimed amount, and case history. Payment advice status and bank validation details are also available.
Common Issues in GST Tracking and How to Resolve Them?
In the table below, we have listed the common issues in GST tracking and how to resolve them:
Common Issues | How to Resolve |
Entering incorrect ARN, GSTIN, or credentials | Double-check and enter the correct ARN, GSTIN, or login details. |
ARN not generated or not received | Wait for confirmation email/SMS. Check spam/junk folders. If not received, contact GST helpdesk. |
Status not updating or showing as “Pending” for too long | Wait for the standard processing time. If delayed, raise a grievance through the GST portal. |
Portal not loading or technical glitches | Clear browser cache, try a different browser, or access during off-peak hours. |
Captcha not working or not visible | Refresh the page or try a different browser/device. |
Application status shows “Deficiency Memo Issued” | Log in, check for deficiency details, and submit the required clarification/documents promptly. |
Bank account validation failed (for refunds) | Update and revalidate your bank details on the GST portal. |
Return/Refund status not found despite filing | Verify the filing period and ARN. Ensure the return/refund was successfully submitted. |
Mismatch in status between GST portal and ICEGATE (exports) | Contact GST helpdesk or ICEGATE support for reconciliation and clarification. |
Forgotten login credentials | Use the “Forgot Username/Password” option on the GST portal to reset your credentials. |
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