Once a taxpayer receives their GST registration certificate (FORM GST REG-06) and is assigned a GSTIN (Goods and Services Tax Identification Number), it becomes mandatory to furnish bank account details on the GST portal.

This requirement is governed by Rule 10A of the Central Goods and Services Tax (CGST) Rules, 2017, inserted via Notification No. 31/2019 – CT dated 28.06.2019.

 Why is Furnishing Bank Account Details Important?

  1. Authentication of Business Identity:
    • Linking a valid bank account ensures that the entity is genuinely operational and traceable.
  2. Processing of Refunds:
    • Refunds under GST (such as for exports or inverted duty structure) cannot be processed unless bank details are furnished and verified.
  3. Compliance Requirement:
    • It is a legal obligation for all normal registered taxpayers (excluding those under Rule 12 and Rule 16).
  4. Avoiding Suspension of Registration:
    • Failure to furnish bank account details within the specified time may lead to suspension or cancellation of the GST registration.
  5. Enablement of Core GST Functionalities:
    • Essential services like return filing, credit utilization, and e-way bill generation could be affected if details are not provided.

 Time Limit to Furnish Bank Account Details

A registered person must furnish bank account details within:

  • 45 days from the date of grant of registration, or
  • Date on which the return under Section 39 (GSTR-3B) is due,
    whichever is earlier.

🔹Example:
If your GST registration is granted on 1st July, and your first GSTR-3B is due on 20th August, then the earlier of the two is 15th August (45 days), so you must update bank details before that.

❌ What Happens If You Don’t Furnish Bank Account Details?

  1. Suspension of GST Registration:
    • As per Rule 21A and other provisions, non-furnishing may lead to automatic suspension.
  2. Blocking of Return Filing and Other Services:
    • Taxpayers may be restricted from filing returns like GSTR-1 and GSTR-3B.
  3. No Refunds:
    • Refund claims cannot be processed unless valid bank account details are verified.
  4. Cancellation of Registration:
    • Continued non-compliance can lead to the cancellation of GST registration by the department.

 Who Is Exempted?

The following categories are exempted from Rule 10A:

  1. Persons registered under Rule 12:
    • Non-resident taxable persons and casual taxable persons.
  2. Persons registered under Rule 16:
    • Suo motu registration by GST officers (e.g., for unregistered persons found liable).

 Step-by-Step: How to Furnish Bank Account Details on GST Portal

🔹 Step 1: Login

  • Visit www.gst.gov.in
  • Log in using your GSTIN, username, and password

🔹 Step 2: Navigate to Profile

  • Go to Services > Registration > Amendment of Registration (Non-Core Fields)

🔹 Step 3: Update Bank Details

  • In the Bank Account Details section:
    • Click ‘Add New’
    • Enter:
      • Account Holder Name
      • Account Number
      • Type of Account (Savings/Current)
      • IFSC Code
    • Upload a copy of a cancelled cheque or bank statement

🔹 Step 4: Verification

  • Submit using DSC/EVC as applicable
  • A confirmation ARN (Acknowledgment Reference Number) will be generated

🔹 Step 5: Approval

  • The application is processed by GST authorities. Once approved, your bank details will reflect in your GST profile.