The process of GST compliance always involves filing refund applications. For QRMP taxpayers (Quarterly Return Monthly Payment), the Validation for Filing Refund Application has recently undergone a key update as per the latest advisory issued by the GST portal (https://www.gst.gov.in/). The goal is to improve the method of filing refunds and checks for accuracy at the same time.
In May 2025, a system-level validation was deployed on the GST Portal to ensure adherence to the provisions outlined in Para 6 of According to Circular No.125/44/2019-GST dated 18.11.2019, refund claims must align with the respective GSTR-1 and GSTR-3B returns filed by the applicant.
1. Mismatch Due To IFF Usage: Since the Invoice Furnishing Facility (IFF) was used by a lot of taxpayers in the first two months of every quarter, their invoices weren’t reflected in the GSTR-1 and GSTR-3B for the quarter, causing their refunds to be rejected.
2. Delays in Refunds for Exporters/ITC Claims: There were delays in giving refunds to exporters and companies claiming Input Tax Credit (ITC) because their information differed from the information entered in IFF.
3. Updated System Validation Logic: The GST online portal has started combining invoice data from both IFF and the GSTR-1 of the third month to ensure better validation of tax refund applications and lessen any chances of failures or fines for QRMP taxpayers.
This is to inform the taxpayers that the above-mentioned technical issue has now been resolved. Taxpayers under the QRMP scheme can now file refund applications for the invoices for which GSTR-3B has already been filed. Please note that invoices furnished through IFF for which GSTR-3B has not yet been filed in the coming return period should not be included in the refund application.
For enhanced compliance tips, explore our guide on HSN Reporting in GSTR-1 for B2B & B2C and how to align your invoices properly.
Here are the steps that QRMP taxpayers should take going ahead:
This updated Validation for Filing Refund Application mechanism is a step in the right direction, especially for QRMP taxpayers. It will avert the problem of wrong refunds and bring consistency in processing all refund requests. For enhanced compliance tips, explore our guide on HSN Reporting in GSTR-1 for B2B & B2C and how to align your invoices properly.
How to file a refund application in GST?
Go to the GST portal, choose Services > Refunds > Application for Refund, decide on the refund type, and finish filling in the form.
How to apply for a refund?
Ensure you have filed relevant GSTR-1 and GSTR-3B returns and have supporting documents like invoice details, shipping bills (for exports), and tax payment proofs.
When should an applicant file an application for a GST refund?
Anyone looking for a refund must file an application within two years of the date listed by the GST law.
How to claim a GST refund under LUT?
Send a Letter of Undertaking (LUT) through the GST portal, avoid paying tax on exported goods, and apply to get a refund of your unused Input Tax Credit (ITC).