What Is the GST Application Reference Number (ARN) And How To Apply For It?

GST ARN refers to Application Reference Number which is a 15-digit unique code assigned to you to enable you to do a GST ARN status check of your application. The GST ARN number can then be used to track the status of application of GST registration until GST Certificate and GSTIN is issued by the Government.

The GSTN Portal generates an ARN, Application Reference Number, when an enrollment application is signed electronically or a Digital Signature (DSC) via the GSTN Portal at the time of submission. Every transaction at the GST System Portal requires a unique number.

Let’s read to know more on the application reference number (ARN), its format, how to track GST ARN status, and more.

What is the GST ARN Number?

ARN stands for Application Reference Number in GST. It is a unique number generated when submitting an enrollment application that is electronically or digitally signed on the GSTN portal. The ARN unique code generated can be used in the future course of the GSTN portal. 

ARN is generated upon successful submission of enrollment application documents on the GST portal and can be used to track the status of your application. The beauty of the ARN is that it enables you to migrate into the new goods tax and services (GST).

It is important to understand that the GST portal is a government portal that allows you to do all your activities concerning GST online. The ARN is mainly used to track and verify the status of your registration process on this online platform, and it is generally called the GST ARN check.

Format of GST ARN

The ARN strictly adheres to a format that is a standard format. The ARN is a 15-digit alpha-numeric unique code generated for every enrollment.

The format of the ARN:

• Part 1: The first two digits of the code are alphabets.
• Part 2: The third and fourth digits represent the state code.
• Part 3: The next four subsequent digits represent the month and year.
• Part 4: The following six digits are generated by the system. This is a unique number for every application.
• Part 5: The last digit is the checksum digit.

Also Read: GST Cancellation Rules And Norms That You Should Be Aware Of

How to Track Status of GST ARN?

As mentioned earlier, you can easily track the GST ARN status. You Can follow these simple steps to track your status. The steps include:

• Step 1: Log on to the GST government-authorized portal.
• Step 2: Click on the “Services” tab.
• Step 3: Choose the “Registration” subtab under the ‘Services” tab.
• Step 4: After choosing the tab, click on the “Track Application Status” link from the drop-down list.
• Step 5: A new page is loaded after clicking the “track application status” tab, where you must enter your ARN to get a GST ARN status check.
• Step 6: Hit on the search to reveal your application status.

If you have not received your ARN, an email will be sent to your registered mail id with instructions for further action.

Documents Required for GST Application Reference Number (ARN) 

A bunch of identification and verification documents are required to successfully enrol on the GST portal. Here’s a list of all that you will need for successful enrollment on the GST portal:

1. For Business Purposes: A detailed list of all the partners and directors involved in the business, along with all the related identification documents and address proofs, will be required. This document must also include details regarding how the partnership works or if it is a joint venture.

2. Business Registration Proof: As proof for the business, you must offer documents like Memorandum of Association (MoA), Partnership Bond, Certificate of Incorporation, and Articles of Association (AoA) documents.

3. Address Proof: Location verification documents will be needed for successful enrollment. A rent agreement/lease agreement signed by the landlord along with a copy of the electricity bill of your business’s dwelling is needed.

4. PAN Card: This is another mandatory document. A PAN card for your business should be in-hand or successful registration. Any government id proof can also be used.

5. Bank Documents: A bank account proof is also needed for your business- a cancelled cheque with IFSC code, account holder’s name, and bank branch-related details. MICR number, etc., will be required.

All the above mentioned documents will help you register and enrol successfully on the GST portal.

Process of Enrol for GST ARN (Application Reference Number) in India

It is relatively simple to enrol on the GST platform provided you follow these steps and ensure that you have all the necessary documents on-hand. ARN status in GST can be easily tracked as well. Here’s the process of the GST ARN registration in India:

Step 1: Visit the GST online portal and register yourself. 

Step 2: After successful registration on the GST portal, you will receive a one-time unique OTP, on the registered email id and phone number. Upon entering the OTP your PAN verification will be complete.

Step 3: It is necessary to fill Part A of GST REG-01 by specifically mentioning the details and proofs, including the PAN card number, 

Step 4: After  successfully submitting the Part A portion of the application on the GST online portal, you shall be allotted a Temporary Registration Number (TRN) on the registered mobile number and email ID. A confirmation number will also be sent to your registered credentials.

Step 5: Provide all the necessary details in the Part-B portion of the application GST REG-01. 

Step 6: Once you have completed the GST REG-01 form, you will also get an acknowledgement receipt in the GST REG-02 form. The acknowledgement will contain all the necessary information regarding the application along with the Application Reference Number (ARN). 

Tracking the status of your application can be easily done using the ARN. In case of any queries or doubts, you can raise an issue using the ARN.

What are the Types of Application Status of GST ARN Number?

The government web page has an option that enables GST track application status. ARN is the Application Reference Number, a 15-digit unique number generated when a taxpayer successfully submits an application on the GST Portal.  Different types of statues are listed below:

Your application can have any one of the following ARN status in GST:

1. Pending for processing
2. Site verification assigned
3. Site verification completed
4. Pending for clarification
5. Pending for order- Clarification filed
6. Pending for order- Clarification not field
7. Approved
8. Rejected

Also Read: What Are IGST, SGST And CGST And What Are The Differences?

Final word

In conclusion, GST ARN is a 15-digit unique number that allows you to track your application details when you have applied on the GST portal. You can identify all the different statues after using this number. Furthermore, it also allows you to download the application acknowledgment. It is important to understand that the ARN is an alpha-numeric code.

FAQs on GST Application Reference Number (ARN)

Before you go…

• Looking for instant 🚀 personal loans 24*7 anywhere, anytime? Get personal loans up to ₹20 lakh starting at 9.9% p.a. Install the Navi app now!!
• Or, maybe you’re looking to buy that house you’ve been eyeing 🏠 and you need a loan of up to ₹5 crore. Install the Navi app now and get instant in-principle approval right away! Interest rates starting at 7.89% p.a.
• How about an affordable health insurance policy👨‍⚕️ starting at a monthly premium of just ₹235? Install the Navi app now and get your policy in under 2 minutes.
• Instead, want to put your savings into action and kick-start your investment journey 💸 But don’t have time to do research. Invest now with Navi Nifty 50 Index Fund, sit back, and earn from the top 50 companies.

Disclaimer: Mutual Fund investments are subject to market risks, read all scheme-related documents carefully.

This article has been prepared on the basis of internal data, publicly available information and other sources believed to be reliable. The information contained in this article is for general purposes only and not a complete disclosure of every material fact. It should not be construed as investment advice to any party. The article does not warrant the completeness or accuracy of the information, and disclaims all liabilities, losses and damages arising out of the use of this information. Readers shall be fully liable/responsible for any decision taken on the basis of this article.