GST notices are issued for mismatches, late filing, wrong ITC claims and more. Ignoring them leads to heavy penalties. Here is how to respond to every type of GST notice.
Why Did You Receive a GST Notice?
GST notices are issued by the GST department for various compliance gaps. The most common reasons: discrepancy between GSTR-1 and GSTR-3B, ITC mismatch with GSTR-2B, late filing of returns, excess ITC claimed, short payment of tax, non-filing after registration, and random scrutiny.
Types of GST Notices and Their Sections
| Notice Type | Section | Reason | Deadline |
| ASMT-10 | 61 | Return scrutiny — mismatch found | 30 days |
| DRC-01 | 73/74 | Tax shortfall (non-fraud / fraud) | 30 days |
| REG-03 | 25 | Clarification needed for registration | 7 working days |
| REG-17 | 29 | GST cancellation notice | 7 working days |
| RFD-08 | 54 | Deficiency in refund application | 15 days |
| GSTR-3A | 46 | Notice for non-filer | 15 days |
GSTR-1 vs GSTR-3B Mismatch — Most Common Notice Reason
If your declared outward supplies in GSTR-1 do not match your GSTR-3B tax payment, the department issues ASMT-10. Causes: typographical errors, invoices missed in one return, B2B vs B2C classification errors. Response: reconcile both returns, pay the difference with interest (18% per annum), and explain discrepancy in writing.
ITC Mismatch Notice (DRC-01)
If you claimed Input Tax Credit that does not appear in your GSTR-2B (supplier has not filed GSTR-1), you may receive a DRC-01 demand. Response: check GSTR-2B, reverse ineligible ITC, pay interest on reversed amount, or provide proof that supplier filed their return subsequently.
How to Respond to GST Notice — Step by Step
1. Login to gst.gov.in → Services → User Services → View Notices and Orders. 2. Download and read the notice carefully. 3. Identify exact issue (mismatch amount, period, section). 4. Gather documents: invoices, GSTR-2B, bank statements, ledgers. 5. Respond online through the portal within the deadline. 6. Pay any outstanding tax + interest before responding (this avoids penalties under Section 73). 7. Keep track of hearing dates if case goes to adjudication.
Key Deadlines and Penalties
Section 73 (non-fraud): Pay before notice = no penalty. Pay within 30 days of notice = 10% penalty. Adjudication order = 10% penalty minimum. Section 74 (fraud/suppression): Minimum 100% penalty. Voluntary payment before notice = 15% penalty. Not responding to GSTR-3A (non-filing notice) leads to suo-motu best judgement assessment.
When You Need a GST Expert
Get professional help immediately for DRC-01 demands above ₹1 lakh, Section 74 notices (fraud allegation), GST audit notices, cancellation notices if business is active, and complex reconciliation cases spanning multiple financial years. TaxWhizz GST experts handle notice responses, reconciliations, hearings, and appeals.
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