How to Check GST Registration and Application ARN Status

To make filing GST easy and user-friendly, the Indian Government has given every taxpayer access to an online portal. The official GST portal simplifies the process, but to start, you need to register your company. You can proceed with an online application and complete the registration online. Once done, it takes 15 days for your application to get registered. In the meantime, you can check the GST registration status using your Application Reference Number (ARN) on the GST official portal.
 

What is the ARN number?

ARN stands for Application Reference Number (commonly referred to as ARN full form in GST), which is generated on the GST portal and assigned to each registration application submitted by taxpayers. Currently, the ARN provided after submitting a GST registration form is the most straightforward way to check the status of a GST registration online. However, the ARN is only issued once the initial step of document verification in the GST registration process is completed. This makes the ARN a crucial element in tracking your GST application effectively.

Why is the GST ARN number important?

The Goods and Services Tax (GST) Application Reference Number (ARN) is a unique identification number generated after the initial filing of GST returns. The ARN number is essential as it acts as proof of submission of the GST return and is necessary to track the return's status.

The ARN number is also required to make any amendments or changes to the GST return. It ensures that all GST tax-filing procedures are tracked and transparent for businesses. Furthermore, it helps streamline the tax administration process, minimizes errors, and promotes accountability in the GST system.

ARN number generation process

• Application submission: The applicant submits the GST registration application online through the GST portal.
• Verification: The GSTN (Goods and Services Tax Network) verifies the application and documents submitted by the applicant.
• ARN generation: Upon successful verification, the GSTN generates an Application Reference Number (ARN) and sends it to the applicant via email and SMS.
• Tracking: The applicant can track the status of their application using the ARN on the GST portal.
• Further processing: Once ARN is generated, the application undergoes further processing, including scrutiny and approval by the tax authorities.

Documents to have before checking GST registration status using ARN

• Application reference number (ARN): Ensure you have the ARN provided to you when you submitted your GST registration application.
• Email address and mobile number: Make sure the email address and mobile number provided during registration are accessible, as updates on the status will be sent to these.
• GST portal credentials: Have your username and password for the GST portal ready to log in and check the status.
• Valid identification documents: Keep any identification documents used during registration handy, as they may be required for verification purposes.
• Pen and paper: Have a pen and paper ready to note down any important information or instructions provided during the status check process.

How to check GST registration status

• Step 1: First, make your way to the GST official portal.
• Step 2: Proceed to the 'services' tab. Under this tab, you will find a header by the name of 'registration'.
• Step 3: Next, click on the 'registration' header to get three options: 'New Registration', 'track application status', and 'application for filing clarifications'
• Step 4: Now, click 'track application status' and enter your ARN in the given space. Input the captcha code in the next step and click 'search'.

If you enter the right code without any spaces or typos, you will receive your GST registration status on your screen within seconds. However, each terminology represents a different set of information. Read on to the next segment to know what each entails.

Additional Read: What is GSTIN (Goods and Services Tax Identification Number)

What are the different types of GST ARN application status?

The GST ARN (Application Reference Number) status indicates the stage of processing an application has reached, and there are six different types of GST ARN application status:

1. Submitted: This status indicates that the application has been successfully submitted.
2. Pending for processing: This status indicates that the application is waiting for processing.
3. Validation against error: This status indicates that the application has failed validation, and there is an error in the application.
4. Re-submission requested: This status indicates that the applicant needs to rectify the errors and re-submit the application.
5. Approved: This status indicates that the application has been approved.
6. Rejected: This status indicates that the application has been rejected due to incorrect or incomplete information.

What does each GST registration status mean?

At every stage of your registration application, you will get a written status basis of the stage it is. By decoding your status, it will be easy for you to gauge your application's progress. Here are the terms that you will come across when checking your GST registration status:

Track GST registration application status before login

Tracking GST registration application status before login is beneficial for businesses needing quick updates on their application:

• Visit GST Portal: Go to the official GST portal.
• Navigate to Services > Registration > Track Application Status: Locate and click on the 'Track Application Status' under the Registration tab.
• Enter ARN: Input your Application Reference Number (ARN) provided during the registration process.
• Security verification: Complete the captcha or security verification to proceed.

View status: Instantly view the current status of your GST registration application without needing to log in, ensuring timely updates and compliance management.
 

Track GST registration application status after login

Tracking GST registration application status after logging into the GST portal provides detailed insights and updates:

• Login to GST portal: Access the official GST portal using your credentials.
• Navigate to dashboard: Once logged in, navigate to the dashboard or home page.
• Click on Services > Registration > Track Application Status: Locate and click on 'Track Application Status' under the Registration tab.
• Enter ARN: Enter your Application Reference Number (ARN) in the designated field.
• View detailed status: Gain access to detailed status updates, including stages of processing, pending actions, and approval status.
• Download documents: Download necessary documents or responses related to your GST registration application directly from the portal.

Tracking after login ensures businesses have comprehensive oversight and can manage GST registration effectively within regulatory timelines.

Importance of tracking GST registration ARN

Tracking GST registration Application Reference Number (ARN) is crucial for businesses to ensure compliance and operational efficiency:

• Verification: ARN enables verification of the status of GST registration applications submitted online.
• Compliance: Tracking ARN ensures businesses meet regulatory requirements promptly, avoiding penalties or legal issues.
• Operational continuity: Knowing the ARN status allows businesses to plan operations effectively, anticipating timelines for GST registration approval.
• Communication: It facilitates communication with tax authorities regarding any queries or additional information required for processing the registration.
• Transparency: Tracking ARN promotes transparency in the GST registration process, enhancing trust between businesses and regulatory authorities.

Regular monitoring of ARN status supports smooth business operations under the GST regime.

Key considerations and additional steps for checking GST ARN status

• Validity of ARN: Ensure that the ARN provided is accurate and matches the details submitted in the GST registration application.
• Update contact information: Verify that your email address and mobile number registered with GST are up-to-date to receive status updates.
• Secure login: Use secure credentials and avoid sharing login details to protect your GST portal account.
• Follow-up communication: Be prepared to respond to any follow-up queries or requests from the tax authorities promptly.
• Patience: Understand that the processing time for GST registration applications may vary, so exercise patience while awaiting the status update.

Conclusion

Checking the GST ARN status is a crucial step in the GST registration process, ensuring that applications are processed efficiently and accurately. By following key considerations such as verifying the ARN's validity, updating contact information, maintaining secure login credentials, and being responsive to follow-up communication, applicants can streamline the registration process and stay informed about their application status. Patience is essential, as processing times may vary, but proactive engagement and adherence to guidelines help expedite the process. Overall, thorough attention to these considerations enhances the registration experience and facilitates compliance with GST regulations.