Launched in 2017, the Goods and Services Tax (GST) is a monumental tax reform to simplify India's complex indirect tax system. It is a destination-based tax system in India where businesses sometimes end up paying more tax than their liability. In such cases, businesses are entitled to claim a refund. The GST refund process has been seamless with an online system through the GST portal. If you are eligible for a refund, this blog is for you where we provide a complete step-by-step guide to online applying for a GST refund.
Check Your Availability
You can apply for a GST refund under the following circumstances: In case of excess balance in your electronic cash ledger For refunds of supplies to SEZ units and developers. For refund due to excess tax paid or tax paid on deemed exports due to errors or defects In case of accumulated Input Tax Credit due to exports / deemed exports of goods or services; IGST paid on export of services (with payment of tax) For purchases made by UN agencies or embassies;
On finalization of the provisional assessment, assessment or appeal, or any other order where the amount was deposited. While leaving the country, international tourists can claim a tax refund.
Documents Required for GST Refund
Export invoices, shipping bills, or export bills Bank realization certificates (BRC) or Foreign Inward Remittance Certificates (FIRC) Statement 2 of RFD-01 Proof of tax paid on inward supplies Any other supporting documentation as specified for your refund type.
Step-by-Step Process to Apply for a GST Refund
Step 1: Log in to the GST Portal
Visit the official GST website and log in using your GSTIN, username, and password. Ensure your profile is updated, and your bank account details are validated on the portal.
Step 2: Navigate to Refund Application
Once logged in, go to Services > Refunds > Application for Refund. The portal will ask you to select the refund type depending on your situation.
Step 3: Choose the Refund Type Select the appropriate refund type from the list, such as:
Refund of excess balance in Electronic Cash Ledger. Refund of ITC on account of exports without payment of tax. Refund on account of inverted duty structure. Choose carefully, as the portal customizes the application form based on your selection.
Step 4: File Form GST RFD-01
You will now have to fill out Form GST RFD-01: Select the tax period you claim the refund.
Enter the amount of refund being claimed under respective heads like CGST, SGST, IGST, and cess. Attach supporting documents as required. Ensure that you declare and verify the details truthfully.
Step 5: Submit the Application
After double-checking all the entered information, submit the form. You can authenticate the application through: Digital Signature Certificate for companies and LLPs, or Electronic Verification Code for proprietorships and other taxpayers
Step 6: Generation of ARN
The portal generates an Application Reference Number upon successful submission. You can use this ARN to track the status of your refund application.
Applying for a GST refund online is streamlined if you follow the steps carefully and upload all the necessary documents. Timely and accurate filing ensures a faster refund and better compliance with GST regulations. Rely on Lawgical India Business Developers Pvt. Ltd. to apply for a GST refund online. Our team of 80+ professionals will assist you in preparing all records and thoroughly understanding eligibility criteria to avoid unnecessary delays.
Whether you’re an exporter, a supplier to SEZs, or facing an inverted duty structure, Lawgical India ensures you get your due refund with minimal hassle. Moreover, we excel in other fields, such as GST registration and FSSAI licensing, Apeda Registration, MSME Registration, PAN Registration in India and other services. Our experts are well aware of the intricacies of legal processes and have ample experience in this field. You can chill while we do all the computation and legal work, ensuring you face no difficulties.
How to apply for a GST refund online?
Step 1: Log in to the GST portal using your GSTIN and password.
Step 2: Go to Services > Refunds > Application for Refund.
Step 3: Select the refund type based on your reason.
Step 4: Fill out Form GST RFD-01, providing the tax period and refund amount, and upload the required documents.
Step 5: Submit the application using a Digital Signature Certificate or Electronic Verification Code.
