In this article, you will learn about the meaning of ARN and how to check the status of GST registration.
Overview
The Goods and Services Tax (GST) was implemented nationwide on 1 July 2017. GST is a unified tax that consolidates multiple indirect taxes imposed by both the State and Central governments. Businesses must determine if they are required to register for GST and, if so, obtain GST registration.
To apply for GST registration, a business must complete Form Reg-01 and submit the necessary documents using Form Reg-02. After the registration form is successfully submitted, the taxation officer will conduct a series of verifications. Once the documents are verified, an ARN number will be issued and sent to the registered email address. You can check the status of your GST registration using the ARN number. Follow the steps outlined below to verify your GST registration status.
The Process of Obtaining ARN Status Approval
There are two primary steps involved in obtaining ARN status approval. These involve filing the GST application and tracking its approval process. The process is explained below.
1) Submitting Your GST Application
To obtain an ARN (Application Reference Number), the initial step is to apply for GST registration. Here’s a streamlined guide to help you through the process:
- Eligibility Check: Ensure that your business activities and turnover meet the criteria for GST registration
- Choose the Correct Form: GSTN provides different registration forms based on the type of taxpayer, such as new businesses, existing entities, or casual taxable persons
- Gather Required Documents: Collect all necessary documents, including ID proofs, address proofs, bank statements, and business licenses, as per the selected form
- Complete and Submit the Online Application: Accurately fill out the form on the GST portal and upload the required documents
- Pay the Registration Fees: Submit the applicable fees for processing your registration
- Receive Acknowledgement and ARN: After successful submission, you will receive an acknowledgment receipt containing your unique ARN.
2) Tracking Application Progress and Obtaining Approval
Once you have your ARN, you can monitor the status and follow these steps:
- Track Application Status: Use your ARN to check the status of your application on the GST portal
- Respond to Requests: Address any requests for additional information from the authorities promptly to avoid delays
- Await Verification: The authorities will verify your application details and documents, which may include a physical verification of your business premises
- Receive Approval: Upon approval, you will receive a notification, and the ARN status will be updated on the portal
- Download GSTIN: After approval, you can download your GST registration certificate, which includes your unique GSTIN.
ARN Full Form
In the context of GST (Goods and Services Tax) in India, ARN stands for “Application Reference Number.” It is a unique reference number generated after the successful submission of a GST registration application or any other GST-related application or form. The ARN helps in tracking the status of the application and serves as a reference for communication with the GST authorities regarding that particular application.
ARN Number Generation
After submitting a GST registration application on the GST Portal, an ARN number is generated. This unique ARN number allows tracking the status of the GST registration application efficiently.
Why is an ARN Number Considered So Important?
While often overlooked, the Application Reference Number (ARN) plays a pivotal role in the GST registration process, holding several key advantages for applicants. Here’s why an ARN number is deemed crucial:
Temporary ID for Business Transactions: The ARN number, generated post-GST registration application, serves as a temporary identification until the official Goods and Services Tax Identification Number (GSTIN) is acquired. This ensures a seamless continuation of business transactions.
Legitimacy Certification: During the GST application, various documents, including the Memorandum of Association (MOA) and PAN Card, are submitted. The ARN number acts as a certification of legitimacy for business partners until the formal GSTIN is issued.
Facilitating Bill of Supply: Vendors can utilise the ARN number to conduct transactions, issuing bills of supply without the GSTIN. Once the GSTIN is obtained, they are required to update invoices with the new details.
Authentic Identification for Intermediaries: In financial sectors such as mutual funds, ARN numbers serve as authentic identification for mutual fund advisers, agents, mediators, and distributors. This code ensures transparency and eliminates the risk of deception.
Calculation Aid for Mutual Fund Transactions: In the realm of mutual funds, the ARN code becomes instrumental in calculating brokerage amounts for agents and mutual fund advisors, streamlining financial transactions. Asset Tracking for Intermediaries: The ARN number allows for comprehensive tracking of assets in which intermediaries have invested their funds, providing a clear overview of financial portfolios.
ARN Format
The format of ARN is as follows:
- ARN is a 15-digit alpha-numeric code, with the first two codes being alphabets
- The next two digits are the state code
- The following four codes represent the month and year
- The six digits after that are the unique system-generated number
- The final code displays the checksum digit
A typical ARN, for example, will have the following format: AA 01 02 20 000000 1
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How to Check GST ARN Status?
The steps outlined below will help taxpayers quickly check their GST registration status or GST ARN status on the GSTN portal.
- Simply open a web browser and navigate to the official website https://gst.gov.in.
- The GST portal is accessible through supported web browsers such as Firefox, Chrome, Safari, Microsoft Edge, and Internet Explorer.
- Click the Services menu on the GST portal’s homepage, then under Registration, click Track Application Status.
- You will be guided to the Status page to Track the Application, where you must enter the ARN issued during GST registration. To proceed further, enter the ARN and click the Search button.
Note: If the page contains a Captcha code, enter it into the text box to verify it.
- The status of your Application ARN will be displayed on the screen.
Note: Please ensure that your Application ARN status details will also be sent to your registered phone number and e-mail address.
GST Tracking Number Status
When an applicant monitors the ARN status, there are six likely outcomes, which are as follows:
GST Officer Assigned Form
This ARN Status appears when the GST application is assigned or offered to the GST officer for processing and approval. It is important to remember that this status does not imply that your GST Registration application has been canceled.
Pending Clarification
The above-mentioned ARN status appears when the GST officer requests clarification on the filed GST Registration application. In this case, the applicant must submit or provide the clarification via the GST Portal soon.
Clarification Requested – Order Pending
This status is displayed when the applicant files a clarification in response to the GST Officer’s concerns. However, the approval has been put on hold by the GST officer.
Clarification not filed – Order pending
This ARN status is assigned when the applicant fails to provide clarification to the GST officer within the time frame specified. Furthermore, the relevant GST officer may reject the applicant’s GST registration application.
Application Approved
If you receive this status after tracking it, the GST Officer has accepted your GST Registration Application. Once this status is displayed, the applicant will receive a GST identification number (GSTIN) and a GST registration certification.
Rejected Application
This ARN status is displayed when the GST officer rejects or disapproves of the GST Registration application. If applicants wish to register for GST, they must resubmit the GST Registration form. Taxpayers can track the progress of their application for GST registration on the GST portal and take appropriate action based on the ARN status.
Track GST Registration Application Status Before Login
ARN is an abbreviation for Application Reference Number. After a taxpayer successfully submits their GST registration application on the GST (Goods and Services Tax) portal, the ARN number is usually generated automatically.
When submitting an enrolment application on the GSTN (Goods and Services Tax Network) portal, ARN must be electronically signed or contain a Certificate of Digital Signature. A GST Registration Application is prepared 15 days after it is submitted through the GST portal.
Every taxpayer receives a distinct ARN. It is official evidence that the taxpayer applied for GST registration on the GSTN portal and was successful.
Considerations Before Checking GST Registration Status With ARN
If you want to check your GST registration status, you must have the following documents on hand:
- List of directors or partners, along with identification and address proof. It is very important to mention that you are conducting business through a partnership or incorporation.
- Memorandum of Association (MOA) / Articles of Association (AOA), Certificate of Incorporation, and Deed of Partnership
- A business organization or individual PAN card
- A canceled bank account cheque includes the account holder’s name, IFSC code, MICR, and bank branch information.
- A feature and document of the business area is either a rent agreement or an electricity bill.
Other Factors to Consider
- Apart from what we have mentioned in this article, there are a few additional factors to consider when checking the GST Application ARN status on the portal of GST.
- If a taxpayer has received the Application Reference Number (ARN), there should be an option to access the Provisional Registration Certificate from the GST portal’s Download Certificates section.
- A taxpayer saves the enrolment form with all the details but doesn’t submit it with a Digital Signature Certificate, EVC, and e-Sign. The ARN will be sent to their registered e-mail address if the validation fails. If the validation fails, the taxpayer can log back into the portal and correct the errors. The error details can be obtained via registered e-mail.
- A taxpayer who has completed the enrolment form may log in to the GST portal on the date mentioned above and complete the remaining form.
- If an existing taxpayer wishes to sign up under GST, they may submit a new registration application through the GST portal.
As a result, the ARN number has significant value, and taxpayers must keep it secure because it can be used for reasons other than checking the Application for GST ARN Status.
Conclusion
This article discusses the ARN and how it helps to check the GST status using the registration number. We have also mentioned other factors that should be considered when checking the GST applications ARN status on the official GST portal. You can refer to this article on Vakilsearch for detailed information regarding ARN on GST registration in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does ARN stand for in the context of GST application, and where can I find my ARN (Application Reference Number)?
ARN stands for Application Reference Number. You can find your ARN after submitting your GST application on the official GST portal. It is a unique identifier assigned to your application.
What is the significance of the Application Reference Number (ARN) in the GST registration process?
ARN is crucial as it acts as a temporary ID until you obtain your GSTIN, facilitating business transactions and certifying the legitimacy of the application.
Can I check the GST application status online, and if so, where can I access the official portal or platform for this purpose?
Yes, you can check the GST application status online. Access the official GST portal at the designated web address.
What steps do I need to follow to check the GST application status using the ARN?
To check the GST application status, use your ARN on the GST portal's dedicated section, following the specified steps for status verification.
How long does it typically take for the GST application status to be updated, and are there different stages in the processing timeline?
The processing timeline varies, but it generally takes around fifteen days. Different stages include submission, verification, and approval.
If my GST application status is showing as 'Pending,' what does it indicate, and what should be my next course of action?
A 'Pending' status suggests the application is under review. Wait for further updates, and if necessary, follow up with the GST authorities for clarification.
What are the possible statuses that my GST application can have, and what do they signify in terms of progress or completion?
Possible statuses include 'Pending,' 'Approved,' or 'Rejected.' Each signifies a different stage – under review, successfully processed, or declined.
If there are discrepancies or issues with my GST application status, how can I address them, and is there a helpline or customer support available?
Address discrepancies by contacting the GST helpline or customer support. They can guide you on resolving issues and provide assistance.
Can I receive notifications or updates about my GST application status, and what channels are available for communication from the GST authorities?
Yes, you can receive updates on your GST application status through email or SMS. Ensure your contact details are updated for seamless communication from the GST authorities.
