GST Portal Essentials: Know How to Track Return Status
Know how to track the status of your GST returns on the GST portal using ARN, filing period, or return status to ensure timely compliance.
The Goods and Services Tax (GST) regime in India emphasizes transparency, compliance, and digital efficiency. A critical part of this system is the ability for registered taxpayers to track the status of their GST returns online through the official GST portal. Whether you are a small business owner, an accountant, or a compliance officer, understanding how to track return status can...
The Goods and Services Tax (GST) regime in India emphasizes transparency, compliance, and digital efficiency. A critical part of this system is the ability for registered taxpayers to track the status of their GST returns online through the official GST portal. Whether you are a small business owner, an accountant, or a compliance officer, understanding how to track return status can ensure timely follow-ups and reduce the risk of late fees or compliance errors.
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This article explains, in detail, how to use the GST portal to track return status using various methods, including Application Reference Number (ARN), return filing period, and return status type.
Why Tracking Return Status Is Important
GST return filing is a periodic compliance requirement. After submission, it is essential to verify whether the return has been successfully filed and accepted by the system. Tracking the return status:
- Confirms successful filing
- Helps detect errors or rejections early
- Assists in maintaining compliance records
- Facilitates communication with GST officers in case of disputes
Step-by-Step Guide to Track Return Status on the GST Portal
To track your return status, you will need to log in to the GSTPortal with your registered credentials. Here is the process in detail:
Step 1: Log in to the GST Portal
Visit www.gst.gov.in and log in using your username and password. Once logged in, the homepage dashboard will be displayed.
Step 2: Navigate to the ‘Track Return Status’ Option
From the top menu, go to: Services > Returns > Track Return Status
This option allows you to access multiple ways to search for the return status depending on what information you have available.
Methods to Track GST Return Status
The GST portal provides three different methods to search and track your return status:
1. Using Application Reference Number (ARN)
Every time a GST return is successfully submitted, an Application Reference Number (ARN) is generated and sent to your registered email.
To track via ARN:
- Select the relevant Financial Year from the dropdown list.
- Choose the ARN radio button.
- Enter the ARN received in your email.
- Click Search.
The system will display the return status corresponding to that ARN for the selected year.
2. Using Return Filing Period
If you do not have your ARN but remember the filing period, this method is suitable.
To track by return period:
- Select Return Filing Period as the option.
- Use the calendar to select the month and year of submission.
- Click Search.
The GST portal will fetch and display the returns filed in the selected time period, including details such as return type, tax period, date of filing, and filing mode.
3. Using Return Status Type
This method is useful when you want to check the filing status of returns based on their current system classification, such as ‘Filed-Valid’, ‘Filed-Invalid’, or ‘Not Filed’.
To track by status:
- Choose the Status radio button.
- Select the appropriate status from the drop-down list.
- Click Search.
A table will be displayed showing all returns in that financial year that match the chosen status. It will also include the tax period, ARN, date of filing, and filing mode (online or offline).
Read More: How to Handle Inadvertently Rejected Records in IMS: GSTN Clarifies ITC and Liability Process
What Information Does the Status Display?
The results page provides the following details for each return entry:
- Return Type: Such as GSTR-1, GSTR-3B
- Financial Year and Tax Period
- ARN
- Date of Filing
- Status: Filed-Valid, Filed-Invalid, Not Filed
- Mode of Filing: Online or via GST offline tool
Common Return Status Descriptions
- Filed-Valid: Return successfully submitted and accepted.
- Filed-Invalid: Return submitted but contains discrepancies or errors.
- Not Filed: No return has been submitted for the given tax period.
These statuses help taxpayers determine whether any action is needed, such as rectification or resubmission.
Practical Tips for Effective Tracking
- Always save the ARN received upon return submission.
- Check return status periodically, especially after submission or amendments.
- In case of errors or rejection, promptly rectify the return to avoid penalties.
- For multiple GSTINs, ensure you are logged in to the correct user profile before tracking.
Conclusion
Tracking return status on the GST portal is a straightforward but essential compliance activity. With multiple methods available, including ARN, filing period, and return status type, taxpayers can monitor their GST filings efficiently. The portal’s real-time tracking ensures transparency and empowers users to remain informed and compliant.
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