Learn how to check GST ARN status easily online, track your application, and understand related FAQs. A simple guide for Indian taxpayers with updated 2025 information.
Goods and Services Tax (GST) is a major indirect tax reform introduced in India in 2017. When you apply for GST registration, you receive an Application Reference Number (ARN). Tracking your GST ARN status helps you know where your application stands—whether it is approved, pending for clarification, or under processing. This article explains how to check GST ARN status step-by-step, answers common queries like How do I check my GST ARN status?, How do I check my ARN?, and covers related topics such as How much time does it take for GST number after ARN? and How to check the GST payment status?. We use simple Indian English, at an 8th-grade reading level, and include recent examples up to 2025. Throughout, we integrate SEO keywords naturally, add image prompts for visuals, and include a handy table of processing times. By the end, you’ll be confident in tracking your ARN status, understanding GST approval timelines, and navigating GST portal features.
What Is GST ARN?
Application Reference Number (ARN) is a unique 15‑digit number generated by the GST portal when you submit your registration application. Think of it as a query ticket number. You can use ARN to track your GST application status at any time, without logging into the portal. The ARN ensures secure, verifiable communication between taxpayers and the GST department. Every taxpayer receives their ARN by email and SMS on the mobile number provided during registration. How do I get my ARN number online? It appears instantly upon successful submission, and you can note it down or take a screenshot. In case you lose it, you can retrieve ARN through the GST portal by providing your PAN and other details.
Why Checking GST ARN Status Is Important?
Knowing how to check GST ARN status is crucial because it:
- Confirms Submission: Verifies if your application reached the department safely.
- Tracks Processing Stage: Shows stages like pending, clarification, or approval.
- Helps Tax Planning: You can plan input tax credit and liabilities when registration is complete.
- Avoids Delays: Detects if additional documents are required to avoid application rejection.
Imagine you need to claim input tax credit for business purchases—if your GST registration isn’t active, you cannot claim. By tracking your ARN status frequently, you stay informed and take timely action if any issue arises.
How to Check GST ARN Status Online
Follow these simple steps to check your GST ARN status pending for clarification how long or approval:
- Visit GST Portal: Go to https://www.gst.gov.in.
- Navigate to Services > Registration > Track Application Status.
- Select ARN Option: You will see options “Application Reference Number (ARN)” or “Temporary Reference Number (TRN).” Choose ARN.
- Enter ARN: Input your 15‑digit ARN and the captcha code.
- Click ‘SEARCH’: Your current status displays automatically, e.g., Pending, Clarification, or Approved.
If status shows “Pending for Clarification,” it means the tax officer needs more documents. Typical clarifications take up to 7 working days (see our table below for more details). Always respond promptly through the portal under the Clarification section.
Understanding GST Status Messages
After you search, you might see messages like:
- Pending: Application received, processing yet to start.
- Pending for Clarification: Officer requires more documents. Respond within 7 days.
- Approved: GSTIN assigned; certificate available for download.
- Rejected: Application denied; reasons given.
Each message guides your next step. If approved, you can download your GST certificate and begin filing returns.
Try Our Free Online GST Tools
How Much Time Does It Take for GST Number After ARN?
How much time does it take for GST number after ARN? Generally, the GST department issues GSTIN within 7–15 working days after ARN generation, provided all documents are valid. In some states, processing can be quicker—3–5 days—while complex cases (e.g., multiple branches) may take up to 21 days. Below table shows average processing times in 2025:
| State/UT | Average Processing Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Maharashtra | 5–7 days | Well‑resourced state GST office |
| Delhi | 7–10 days | Moderate load |
| Uttar Pradesh | 10–15 days | Higher volume of applications |
| West Bengal | 8–12 days | Varies by region |
| Tamil Nadu | 6–9 days | Efficient digital handling |
How to Check GST Payment Status?
Tracking How to check the GST payment status is different from ARN. To check payment:
- Log into GST Portal with credentials.
- Go to Services > Payments > Track Payment Status.
- Enter Payment Reference Number (PRN) and captcha.
- Click ‘GO’: View status like Paid, Pending, or Failed.
This helps ensure your liability is settled on time and avoids interest or penalty.
How Many Days for GST Approval?
How many days for GST approval? As explained, average is 7–15 working days. Approval can be faster if:
- All documents are clear and legible.
- Aadhaar verification is successful.
- No manual intervention by tax officer.
Keep in mind weekends and government holidays are excluded from working days.
How Do I Check My ARN?
You might ask, How do I check my GST ARN status? or how to check GST status with ARN number? Both refer to the same portal steps under Track Application Status. Always keep your ARN handy. If you lost it, go to Services > Registration > Application Status, choose “Search by PAN” option, enter PAN, state, and captcha—your ARN appears on screen and is sent to your email and mobile.
How to Track GST Status by ARN Number
Tracking through ARN is straightforward:
- Use steps in “How to Check GST ARN Status Online” section.
- You can also use the GST Suvidha Provider mobile app with ARN login.
- For bulk tracking (e.g., multiple GSTINs), use the offline tool provided by GSTN by uploading a CSV of ARNs.
Can I Claim GST on ARN?
Can I claim GST on ARN? No. ARN is only a reference for application—no input tax credit can be claimed until your GSTIN is active. Only after GST approval and certificate download can you claim input tax credit on purchases.
Is GST Applicable Below 1000?
No monetary limit like Rs. 1,000 exists for GST applicability. GST registration is mandatory if your aggregate annual turnover crosses Rs. 20 lakh (Rs. 10 lakh for certain NE and hill states) in a financial year, irrespective of individual invoice value. Thus, a sale of Rs. 500 is taxable, but registration depends on turnover threshold.
How Much Money Is Required to Get a GST Number?
There is no fee for GST registration. The process is free on the GST portal. However, if you engage a CA or consultant, you may pay professional fees ranging from Rs. 500 to Rs. 2,000. Remember, how much money is required to get a GST number? Zero portal fee; only possible advisory charges.
How to Check if GST Number Is Active or Not?
To verify How to check if GST number is active or not?, use:
- Go to GST Portal > Search Taxpayer > Search by GSTIN/UIN.
- Enter GSTIN and captcha.
- Click SEARCH: If active, details of the taxpayer display; if cancelled or suspended, status shows accordingly.
Alternatively, use third‑party sites providing GST validation API.
Who Cannot Claim GST?
Certain persons cannot claim input tax credit:
- Composition scheme taxpayers.
- Exempt supplies dealers.
- Non-resident taxable persons without registration.
- Input service distributors on some services.
Thus, Who Cannot claim GST? includes those under composition or making exempt supplies.
Tips for Smooth GST ARN Tracking
- Keep ARN and PAN details safe.
- Respond quickly to clarification notices.
- Use portal SMS/email alerts.
- Check payment status to avoid mismatches.
- Download certificate as soon as approved.
Also Read
Common Queries and Solutions
| Query | Solution Summary |
|---|---|
| how do i check my arn? | Services > Registration > Application Status > Search by PAN |
| how to check arn status in gst portal | Services > Registration > Application Status > Enter ARN |
| gst arn status pending for clarification how long | Typically 7 working days for response |
| how to track gst application status by arn | Use portal or offline CSV upload |
| how to check arn status of gst | Same as above steps |
Conclusion
Tracking your GST ARN status is simple and essential for timely GST registration. Using the GST portal, you can quickly find your ARN, track application stages, check payment status, and verify if your GSTIN is active. Understanding timelines like how much time it takes for GST number after ARN? and how many days for GST approval? helps plan your business activities and claim input tax credit without delays. Remember, GST registration is free, and reacting to clarification notices swiftly ensures approval within average timelines of 7–15 working days. Stay updated with GST portal notifications, and maintain digital records for hassle-free compliance.
FAQ
How do I check my GST ARN status?
Visit GST portal > Services > Registration > Track Application Status. Select ARN, enter details, and click SEARCH.
How do I check my ARN?
If lost, go to Track Application Status, choose Search by PAN, enter PAN and state to retrieve ARN.
How much time does it take for GST number after ARN?
On average 7–15 working days, depending on state and document clarity.
How to check the GST payment status?
GST portal > Services > Payments > Track Payment Status. Enter PRN and view status.
How many days for GST approval?
Typically 7–15 working days; complex cases up to 21 days.
Can I claim GST on ARN?
No. Input tax credit can be claimed only after GSTIN approval and activation.
What is the limit of GST?
No invoice limit; registration threshold is Rs. 20 lakh (Rs. 10 lakh for special states).
Who cannot claim GST?
Composition taxpayers and those making exempt supplies.
Is GST applicable below 1000?
GST applies on all taxable supplies, regardless of invoice value.
How to check if GST number is active or not?
GST portal > Search Taxpayer > Search by GSTIN/UIN. Enter GSTIN to view status.