How to Check GST Status

Goods and Services Tax (GST) is the cornerstone of India’s indirect tax system, unifying multiple levies into a single, streamlined framework. For businesses, professionals, and even consumers, verifying GST status is not merely a compliance formality—it’s a critical step in ensuring legal operations, validating vendor credibility, and preventing financial risks. Whether you’re onboarding a new supplier, processing invoices, or auditing your own records, knowing how to check GST status accurately and efficiently can save time, avoid penalties, and strengthen your business relationships.

The GST status of a taxpayer reveals whether their registration is active, suspended, cancelled, or under review. An inactive or cancelled GSTIN can render invoices invalid, disqualify input tax credit claims, and trigger compliance issues with tax authorities. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step approach to checking GST status, including best practices, recommended tools, real-world examples, and answers to frequently asked questions—all designed to empower you with confidence and clarity in managing GST-related tasks.

Step-by-Step Guide

Method 1: Using the Official GST Portal

The most authoritative and reliable way to check GST status is through the official Government of India GST portal. This method ensures you receive real-time, verified data directly from the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC).

Begin by opening your preferred web browser and navigating to https://www.gst.gov.in/. Do not rely on third-party links or search engine results—always type the URL directly to avoid phishing sites.

Once on the homepage, locate the “Services” menu at the top of the screen. Hover over it and select “Search Taxpayer” from the dropdown list. This will redirect you to the taxpayer search interface.

You will be presented with three search options: Search by GSTIN/UIN, Search by PAN, and Search by Name. For the most precise results, use the GSTIN/UIN option. Enter the 15-digit GST Identification Number of the entity you wish to verify. If you don’t have the GSTIN, you can use the PAN number (10-digit alphanumeric) of the business owner or company. The name-based search is less reliable due to potential spelling variations and duplicate entries.

After entering the identifier, complete the CAPTCHA displayed on the screen. Click “Search.” The system will process your request and return a detailed result page. Here, you will find the taxpayer’s legal name, trade name (if any), state of registration, GSTIN, status (Active, Cancelled, Suspended, etc.), registration date, and last filing date.

Pay close attention to the “Status” field. An “Active” status means the entity is compliant and eligible to issue valid tax invoices. If the status reads “Cancelled,” the entity is no longer registered under GST and cannot legally charge or collect tax. “Suspended” indicates a temporary restriction due to non-compliance, such as failure to file returns. In such cases, transactions with the entity should be paused until status is restored.

Method 2: Using the GSTN Mobile App

For users who prefer mobile access, the GSTN mobile application provides a convenient alternative. Available on both Android and iOS platforms, the app allows you to verify GST status on the go.

Download the official “GSTN” app from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store. Ensure you are downloading from the verified publisher—“National Informatics Centre (NIC).” Avoid third-party apps claiming to offer GST services, as they may be unreliable or malicious.

Open the app and tap on “Search Taxpayer.” You will be prompted to enter the GSTIN, PAN, or business name. The interface mirrors the web portal, allowing you to search using the same parameters. After entering the details and solving the CAPTCHA, tap “Search.”

The results will appear instantly, displaying the same key data points as the web portal: legal name, status, registration date, and jurisdiction. The mobile app is especially useful for field staff, logistics personnel, or procurement officers who need to verify vendor details during site visits or delivery confirmations.

Method 3: Checking via GST Portal’s e-Way Bill System

If you are involved in the movement of goods, the e-Way Bill portal offers an additional method to validate GST status. When generating an e-Way Bill, the system automatically cross-checks the GSTINs of both the consignor and consignee.

Visit the e-Way Bill portal at https://ewaybillgst.gov.in/. Click on “Generate New e-Way Bill” and enter the GSTIN of the supplier or recipient in the respective fields. As soon as you tab out of the GSTIN field, the system performs an instant validation. If the GSTIN is invalid or inactive, you will receive an immediate error message stating “Invalid GSTIN” or “GSTIN is cancelled/suspended.”

This real-time validation is particularly useful for transporters and warehouse managers who must ensure that all parties involved in a shipment are GST-compliant before initiating logistics. It acts as a built-in compliance checkpoint, reducing the risk of transporting goods to or from non-compliant entities.

Method 4: Using the GSTN API for Businesses with High Volume Needs

For enterprises processing hundreds or thousands of invoices daily, manual checks are impractical. These organizations often integrate with the GSTN’s Application Programming Interface (API) to automate GST status verification.

To access the API, businesses must register on the GSTN Developer Portal and obtain authentication credentials. Once registered, the API allows automated queries to be sent to the GST system, returning structured JSON or XML responses containing taxpayer status, registration details, and filing history.

Common use cases include ERP systems (like SAP, Tally, or Oracle), accounting software, and e-commerce platforms that automatically validate vendor GSTINs during onboarding or invoice processing. This eliminates human error and ensures every transaction is backed by verified compliance data.

Developers can find API documentation, sample code, and sandbox testing environments on the GSTN Developer Portal. Integration typically requires technical expertise in RESTful services and secure authentication protocols like OAuth 2.0.

Method 5: Verifying via GST Returns (GSTR-1 and GSTR-3B)

While not a direct method of checking GST status, reviewing a taxpayer’s filing history through their GSTR-1 (outward supplies) and GSTR-3B (summary return) can provide indirect insight into their compliance posture.

If a business consistently files returns on time, it is more likely to maintain an active GST status. Conversely, repeated delays or non-filing may indicate potential suspension or cancellation. You can access this information indirectly through the “Public Search” feature on the GST portal under “View Returns.”

However, note that this feature requires the taxpayer’s credentials to view actual returns. For third-party verification, you must rely on the taxpayer to share their return filing summaries or use the “Search Taxpayer” function to check the “Last Filed Date” field, which appears in the search results.

Businesses should encourage their vendors to maintain up-to-date filings, as a gap of more than two consecutive periods may trigger system alerts and potential suspension.

Best Practices

Verify Before Onboarding

Never initiate business transactions with a new vendor, supplier, or service provider without first verifying their GST status. This should be a mandatory step in your vendor onboarding checklist. Even if a vendor provides a GSTIN on their invoice or website, cross-check it on the official portal. Fraudulent entities often use fake or stolen GSTINs to issue invalid invoices and evade tax obligations.

Regular Audits and Re-Verification

GST status can change at any time. A vendor may be active today but suspended tomorrow due to non-filing. Therefore, conduct periodic audits of your vendor database—ideally quarterly or after major financial cycles. Set calendar reminders or integrate automated alerts in your accounting software to trigger re-verification.

Document All Verifications

Keep a digital or physical record of every GST status check you perform. Include the date, GSTIN, result, and source (e.g., GST portal, mobile app). This documentation serves as evidence of due diligence in case of a tax audit or dispute. In the event of a mismatch or fraudulent invoice, having a trail of your verification efforts can protect your business from liability.

Use Multiple Methods for Critical Transactions

For high-value transactions or contracts, do not rely on a single verification method. Use both the web portal and mobile app to cross-validate. If discrepancies arise, contact the taxpayer directly to resolve the issue. Never proceed with a transaction if the GST status is unclear or inconsistent across platforms.

Train Your Team

Ensure that procurement, finance, and logistics teams are trained on how to check GST status. Create a simple internal guide with screenshots and step-by-step instructions. Conduct biannual refreshers to keep staff updated on portal changes or new features.

Watch for Red Flags

Be alert to warning signs such as:

• GSTINs that are too short or contain invalid characters
• Business names that don’t match the registered legal name
• Entities registered in states where they have no physical presence
• Repeated changes in trade name or address without explanation
• Zero filing history despite active registration

Any of these anomalies should prompt deeper investigation before proceeding with business.

Stay Updated on Policy Changes

The GST system evolves. New rules, portal upgrades, and compliance requirements are introduced regularly. Subscribe to official notifications from the GST Council and CBIC. Follow reputable tax advisory blogs or industry associations to stay informed about changes that may affect verification procedures.

Tools and Resources

Official Government Platforms

The primary tools for verifying GST status are maintained by the Government of India:

• GST Portal – https://www.gst.gov.in/ – Central hub for all GST services, including taxpayer search.
• e-Way Bill Portal – https://ewaybillgst.gov.in/ – Real-time validation during goods movement.
• GSTN Mobile App – Available on iOS and Android for on-the-go verification.
• GSTN Developer Portal – https://developer.gst.gov.in/ – For API integration and technical users.

Third-Party Compliance Tools

Several private platforms offer enhanced GST verification features, often bundled with accounting, invoicing, or ERP solutions:

• Tally.ERP 9 – Automatically validates GSTIN during invoice entry and flags inactive status.
• Zoho Books – Integrates with GSTN to verify vendor GST details before processing payments.
• ClearTax – Offers a GSTIN checker tool on its website with additional compliance alerts.
• Khatabook – Used by small businesses to record transactions and validate GST status of customers and suppliers.

These tools are not replacements for official verification but serve as valuable assistants that reduce manual effort and improve accuracy.

Browser Extensions and Plugins

Some browser extensions, such as “GSTIN Validator” for Chrome or Firefox, allow you to highlight and verify a GSTIN on any webpage with a single click. These are useful for researchers, auditors, or procurement staff who frequently encounter GSTINs in emails, PDFs, or websites.

Always ensure that any extension you install is from a trusted developer and does not request unnecessary permissions. Review user ratings and privacy policies before installation.

Government Publications and Guides

For deeper understanding, consult official resources:

• CBIC GST Handbook – Available for download on the GST portal.
• GST Law and Rules – Published by the Ministry of Finance.
• FAQs on GST Registration and Compliance – Updated quarterly on gst.gov.in.

These documents provide authoritative context for why GST status matters and how it impacts tax liability, input credit, and legal obligations.

Online Communities and Forums

Platforms like Reddit’s r/IndiaTax, Quora, and LinkedIn groups dedicated to Indian taxation offer peer insights and troubleshooting tips. While not official sources, they can help you understand common pitfalls and real-time challenges others face when verifying GST status.

Real Examples

Example 1: Supplier Verification Before Payment

A manufacturing company in Pune receives an invoice from a supplier in Gujarat for raw materials worth ₹8.5 lakhs. The invoice includes a GSTIN: 24AABCF1234D1Z5.

Before making payment, the accounts team opens the GST portal and enters the GSTIN. The result shows:

• Legal Name: ABC Supplies Pvt. Ltd.
• Trade Name: ABC Raw Materials
• Status: Active
• Registration Date: 01/07/2018
• Last Filed Date: 20/06/2024

Everything matches. The company proceeds with payment and records the input tax credit. Later, during an internal audit, the same GSTIN is re-checked and still shows active status—confirming compliance.

Example 2: Suspended GSTIN Leads to Rejected Claim

An e-commerce seller in Delhi files GSTR-3B and claims input tax credit on purchases from a vendor in Bangalore. The GSTIN provided is 29AAECC5678F1Z9.

During a routine reconciliation, the finance team verifies the GSTIN and discovers the status is “Suspended.” The reason: failure to file GSTR-3B for three consecutive months.

The seller immediately halts payment to the vendor and requests a revised invoice from a compliant supplier. The original claim is adjusted in the next return, avoiding a notice from the tax department. This incident prompts the company to implement mandatory GST checks before every vendor payment.

Example 3: Fraudulent GSTIN Detected

A small business owner receives an email from a “new logistics partner” offering discounted shipping rates. The vendor’s website lists a GSTIN: 37AAAAA0000A1Z5.

Upon checking, the portal returns: “No records found.” The GSTIN is invalid—likely fabricated. The business owner reports the incident to the GSTN portal’s fraud reporting section and avoids the scam. This case highlights the importance of always verifying even seemingly legitimate offers.

Example 4: API Integration in an ERP System

A multinational corporation with 500+ vendors uses SAP ERP. The finance team integrates the GSTN API to auto-validate every vendor GSTIN during master data creation.

When a new vendor is added, the system sends a query to GSTN. If the status is “Cancelled,” the system blocks the entry and notifies the procurement manager with a reason code. This has reduced non-compliant vendor onboarding by 92% and eliminated over ₹2.3 crore in potential input credit losses in one year.

Example 5: E-Way Bill Rejection Due to Invalid GSTIN

A transporter attempts to generate an e-Way Bill for a shipment from Mumbai to Hyderabad. The consignee’s GSTIN is entered as 33AABCD1234E1Z8.

The system rejects the request with the message: “Invalid GSTIN.” The transporter contacts the consignee, who realizes they had recently changed their legal name and updated their GST registration—but forgot to update the GSTIN on their website and invoices. The consignee provides the correct GSTIN, and the e-Way Bill is generated successfully.

This example illustrates how real-time validation prevents delays and operational disruptions.

FAQs

Can I check GST status without a GSTIN?

Yes, you can search using the PAN number of the business owner or entity. The system will return all GST registrations linked to that PAN. However, if the entity has multiple registrations (e.g., in different states), you may need to cross-check each one.

What does “Cancelled” status mean?

A “Cancelled” status means the taxpayer’s registration has been terminated by the tax authority, either voluntarily (by the taxpayer) or involuntarily (due to non-compliance). An entity with cancelled status cannot issue valid tax invoices or collect GST. Any invoice issued after cancellation is legally invalid.

Is there a fee to check GST status?

No, checking GST status via the official portal, mobile app, or API is completely free. Be cautious of websites or services that charge for this information—they are not authorized and may be scams.

How often is GST status updated on the portal?

The GST portal updates taxpayer status in near real-time. Changes such as cancellation, suspension, or activation are typically reflected within 24–48 hours after the tax authority processes the action.

Can I check GST status for a foreign entity?

No. The GST portal only displays details of entities registered under India’s GST regime. Foreign businesses without a GSTIN cannot be verified through this system. For international transactions, rely on other compliance documents like VAT numbers or tax identification codes from the respective country.

What if the GSTIN is valid but the name doesn’t match?

If the GSTIN is active but the business name differs from what’s on the invoice, proceed with caution. The entity may have changed its name after registration. Request official documentation (e.g., a certificate of name change from the Registrar of Companies) and update your records. Never proceed if the discrepancy cannot be resolved.

Does GST status affect input tax credit?

Yes. You can only claim input tax credit if the supplier’s GSTIN is active and their invoice is valid. If the supplier’s status is suspended or cancelled at the time of invoice issuance, the credit claim will be rejected during GSTR-2A/2B reconciliation.

Can I check GST status of a deceased person’s business?

If a sole proprietor passes away, their GST registration is typically cancelled. You can verify this by searching the GSTIN. If the status is “Cancelled,” the business cannot legally operate under that GSTIN. Any transactions should be halted until the legal heir re-registers under a new entity.

What happens if I unknowingly transact with a cancelled GSTIN?

If you have paid for goods or services from a vendor with a cancelled GSTIN, you cannot claim input tax credit. You may also face scrutiny during a tax audit. While you won’t be penalized for ignorance, you will be required to reverse the credit claimed and may need to pay interest. Always verify before transacting.

Is there a way to get alerts when a vendor’s GST status changes?

Officially, the GST portal does not offer automated alerts. However, third-party compliance platforms like ClearTax, Taxmann, or Zoho Books provide subscription-based alerts for vendor status changes. Alternatively, businesses using ERP systems with API integration can set up internal notifications.

Conclusion

Knowing how to check GST status is not optional—it is a fundamental business practice in today’s compliance-driven economy. Whether you are a small retailer, a large manufacturer, or a digital platform operator, verifying the GST status of every party you transact with protects your finances, ensures legal compliance, and safeguards your reputation.

The tools and methods outlined in this guide—from the official GST portal to API integrations—provide multiple layers of assurance. By adopting best practices such as pre-onboarding verification, regular audits, and documentation, you turn GST compliance from a reactive chore into a proactive strategic advantage.

Remember: A valid GSTIN is not a guarantee of compliance. The status—active, suspended, or cancelled—is the true indicator. Always verify, always document, and always stay informed. In the world of GST, diligence is your best defense against risk.

As the tax landscape continues to evolve, staying ahead means leveraging technology, trusting official sources, and never assuming. Make checking GST status a non-negotiable part of your business workflow—and watch how it transforms your financial integrity and operational efficiency.