When you're waiting for your GST registration to be processed, it can feel a little nerve-wracking. Did you submit everything correctly? Are the documents okay? At least you don't have to wait in the dark. Using your GST ARN Status, you can figure out where your application is in the search processing queue with the online platform.
This piece will explain what you need to know regarding your GST ARN Status, including what the number actually refers to, how you can check it online, and what you can do if your application gets stuck.
What is GST ARN and why is it Important?
Once you've submitted a new GST registration application, the GST portal will create a 15-digit Application Reference Number ("ARN"). This number is unique to your application and is your key to tracking its journey during the processing phase. You can think of it like a tracking ID for your parcel, which tracks a parcel's movement from depot to depot.
The ARN lets you:
Track your application’s progress in real time.
Respond to any queries from the tax officer.
See and download your GST Registration Certificate after the application has been approved.
Without the ARN, you would have no way to track your application status, so it's helpful to know how you check your ARN Status.
How to Check and Track Your ARN Status Online?
It's easy to check your ARN Status and only takes a few minutes. Follow the steps below to perform an ARN GST check and see where your application is.
Go to the GST Portal: Navigate to the official GST Portal at www.gst.gov.in.
Click on Track Application Status: On the home page, click the 'Services' tab at the top of the page. Select 'Registration' from the dropdown menu, then click on 'Track Application Status'.
Enter your ARN: This will take you to a new page. Enter your ARN in the space provided.
Enter the CAPTCHA: Enter the CAPTCHA code as it appears in the space provided and click the 'Search' button.
When you have clicked search, the portal will provide the current status of your application. You can now use your ARN to perform an ARN tracking check anytime, anywhere.
GST ARN Status: What Do the Statuses Mean?
Having a firm understanding of the various statuses is essential to know what happens next. Here is a general description of what each GST ARN Status means for your application.
Submitted: You have successfully submitted your application to the GST portal.
Pending for Processing: Your application has been received by a tax officer, and is in the process of being reviewed by that officer.
Pending for Clarification: Your application has been reviewed by a tax officer, and that officer is seeking additional documents or clarification. This is a critical status, and you need to address it immediately.
Approved: Your application has been approved, and your GSTIN will be sent to your registered email address as soon as possible.
Rejected: The tax officer did not approve your application, generally because of a discrepancy, or was unable to receive the requested documents.
Common ARN Status Issues
One common issue rookie applicants face is the "GST ARN status pending for clarification" status. This status means that the GST officer requires more information. If you see this status, you need to:
Log in to the GST Portal.
Go to the 'My Saved Applications' section.
Find your application and click on the "Clarification" link.
Upload documents or clarify any required information.
You want to respond to this type of request within the established timeline to avoid falling out of the time frame for your application to be processed. For guidance on other tax-related topics, you can read our blog on Common Mistakes to Avoid While Filing Income Tax Return.
Conclusion
Your GST ARN Status (Application Reference Number) is more than just a tracking number; it is a representation of the changing status of your business's legal identity. By simply checking your ARN status, as outlined above, you can keep track of any requests, avoid any delays, and breeze through the GST registration process.
If you are looking to become an expert in the field, our Certified GST Professional Course can provide you with comprehensive knowledge on GST compliance and filings.
If you want a general view about taxes and finance in India, we recommend you look at our blog on The Role of RBI in the Indian Economy. And if you want to expand your finance knowledge, we suggest you read about Equity Market Basics.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: How long does it take for the ARN status to change?
A: Generally, an officer will look at your application an average of 3-7 business days, but this depends on various factors. Do consider checking your ARN Status periodically.
Q2: What is the difference between TRN and ARN?
A: TRN (Temporary Reference Number) is a number allocated to you as a temporary number at the beginning stage of your application process. It also helps keep your progress saved. ARN is the number assigned to you once you have submitted the complete application.
Q3: Can I check my ARN status by SMS?
A: At this time, there is no option for official ARN tracking via SMS. The only way to check your ARN status is the official way online via the GST Portal.
Q4: My ARN status is "Approved," but I still haven't received my GSTIN number. What should I do?
A: Usually, your GSTIN number will be emailed to your registered email address within a few hours of being approved. If you haven't received it, try checking your junk folder. If it still isn't there, you can actually download your registration certificate from the GST portal itself.
If you're looking for helpful guides on taxes or investments, check out our blog on the GST Filing Process Explained for Beginners.
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