TRN Full Form in GST: Meaning, Usage and Validity

Starting a business in India? One of the first steps is GST registration - and that’s where the TRN number comes into play. The full form of TRN is Temporary Reference Number. This 15-digit number, generated early in the registration process, offers a flexible and secure way to manage your application before it's officially submitted. Curious how it works or why it's so important? Read on to uncover everything you need to know about TRN.

What is TRN Full Form?

The TRN full form in GST is “Temporary Reference Number.” It is a unique 15-digit number generated by the GST portal when an applicant initiates the GST registration process but has not yet completed and submitted the entire application. The TRN allows users to temporarily save their registration details and access the application in multiple sittings before final submission.

What are the Uses of TRN?

The Temporary Reference Number (TRN) serves several important purposes during GST registration:

• Enables applicants to save partially filled GST registration forms and resume later.

• Allows multiple logins to update or complete the registration application within the validity period.

• Permits uploading of required documents and information before final submission.

• Provides a secure way to access the registration process before an Application Reference Number (ARN) is generated.

How to Obtain a TRN ?

Obtaining a TRN is a simple process that can be completed online through the GST portal:

• Visit the official GST portal

• Click on ‘New Registration’ under the Registration tab.

• Fill in basic details such as business name, PAN, email address, mobile number, and state/UT.

• Verify your email and mobile number through OTPs sent to both.

• Upon successful verification, the GST portal generates a 15-digit TRN, which is displayed on the screen and also sent via email and SMS.

How to Track the GST Registration Status Using TRN ?

You can track the status of your GST registration application using the TRN by following these steps:

• Go to the GST portal.

• Click on ‘Services’ > ‘Registration’ > ‘New Registration’.

• Select the ‘Temporary Reference Number (TRN)’ option.

• Enter your TRN and the captcha code, then click ‘PROCEED’.

• Enter the OTP received on your registered mobile number and email address (valid for 10 minutes).

• After verification, the ‘My Saved Application’ page will display. Here, you can check the current status of your application under the ‘Track Application Status’ section.

Validity of Temporary Reference Number (TRN)

A TRN is valid for 15 days from the date of its generation. If the registration application is not completed and submitted within this period, the TRN expires, and a new TRN must be generated by restarting the registration process. The validity cannot be extended, so applicants should complete their registration within the stipulated time frame.

Conclusion

The Temporary Reference Number (TRN) is a crucial element in the GST registration process, providing applicants with flexibility to save, update, and complete their applications at their convenience within a 15-day window. Understanding how to obtain, use, and track a TRN ensures a smooth and efficient registration experience. Once the application is finalized and submitted, the TRN is replaced by an Application Reference Number (ARN), which is then used for further tracking and correspondence regarding GST registration.