If you are facing issues where IGST refund on exports through e-commerce is not being credited, here is a step-by-step guide on what to do to trace, rectify, and claim your refund effectively:
1. Verify Shipping Bill Filing
- Ensure that the Shipping Bill is filed as 'Export with payment of tax' (not LUT/bond).
- Confirm that the correct GSTIN, invoice number, invoice date, HSN code, and port code are mentioned.
- The invoice value and tax details in the Shipping Bill must exactly match GSTR-1.
2. Cross-Check GSTR-1 and GSTR-3B
- In GSTR-1, report the export under Table 6A/6B as 'Export with payment of tax.'
- In GSTR-3B, ensure the export turnover is correctly shown in Table 3.1(b) under zero-rated supplies.
- Both returns must be filed and matching in order for refund data to flow from GSTN to ICEGATE.
3. Use ICEGATE Refund Status Tracker
- Visit https://www.icegate.gov.in ? Login/Register ? Go to IGST Refund Status.
- Check for status of refund transmission for each Shipping Bill.
- If marked “SB005 - Invalid Invoice Details” or similar, mismatch exists between SB and GSTR-1.
4. Correct the Mismatches
- File amended GSTR-1 (via Table 9A) to correct any invoice mismatch (value, number, date).
- Make sure that your invoice value in GSTR-1 matches exactly with the one declared in the Shipping Bill.
5. Declare E-Commerce Platform GSTIN (If Required)
- For export through platforms like Amazon or Flipkart, correctly mention the E-commerce Operator’s GSTIN in GSTR-1 if applicable.
- Some errors happen due to incorrect tagging under “through E-commerce operator.”
6. Coordinate with Courier/Logistics Partner
- In case you are using courier exports (especially Express Cargo Clearance System or India Post), ensure:
- The Shipping Bill is generated and acknowledged by ICEGATE.
- The courier partner has filed consolidated EDI data that links your invoice with Customs.
7. Validate Bank Account with PFMS
- Make sure your bank account is linked to your GSTIN and PAN, and validated in the PFMS portal.
- If bank validation fails, even approved refunds will be stuck at disbursal stage.
8. File Refund Grievance (if Required)
- If all corrections are done but refund is still not received:
9. Contact GST Helpdesk and Jurisdictional Officer
- Reach out to the GST Helpdesk (1800-103-4786) or email: [email protected].
- Simultaneously, contact your jurisdictional GST officer with supporting documents to escalate.
?? Checklist of Documents to Keep Ready
- Shipping Bill copy
- GSTR-1 and GSTR-3B for relevant period
- Proof of tax payment (challan or payment ledger)
- Bank account validation proof
- Invoice and e-way bill (if applicable)
- Courier/shipping tracking documents
Pro Tip
Maintain accurate, real-time reconciliation between your GST returns and export documents. Using a GST return reconciliation software can help avoid mismatches in future.
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