Documents Required for GST Refund: A Complete Guide by Genuinefilings.com

Filing for GST refund? Great. But before you hit “submit,” there’s one thing you can’t afford to overlook—documentation.

Whether you’re claiming a refund for exports, an inverted duty structure, or excess tax paid by mistake, the refund process only works smoothly if your documents are accurate and complete.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through the essential documents needed to claim a GST refund in India. From must-have forms to supporting proofs, this is your checklist to ensure your refund application doesn’t get stuck—or worse, rejected.

Let’s break it down in simple terms.

Why Are Documents So Important for GST Refunds?

GST refunds go through government verification, and your documents are the only proof that your refund is genuine. Submitting incorrect, incomplete, or inconsistent paperwork can lead to:

• Refund delays
• Rejection of the application
• Legal complications or follow-ups

That’s why, at Genuinefilings.com, we help businesses and individuals compile accurate refund claims the first time around.

Basic Documents Required for All GST Refund Claims

While the exact documents may vary depending on the refund reason, here’s a list of standard documents that are commonly required for all types of refund claims:

1. GST Refund Application (Form RFD-01)

This is the main form used to apply for a GST refund. It’s filed online through the GST portal and must be accompanied by necessary documents and declarations.

2. GST Returns (GSTR-1 and GSTR-3B)

Your monthly/quarterly GST returns are essential for refund calculation. These returns help match tax paid vs. tax collected/supplies made.

✔ GSTR-1: Details of outward supplies
✔ GSTR-3B: Summary of sales, tax paid, and ITC claimed

3. Invoice Copies

You must provide copies of all relevant tax invoices related to the refund:

• Sales invoices for goods/services supplied
• Export invoices (with shipping bills or Airway Bills for exports)
• Purchase invoices (to justify ITC)

✔ Ensure the invoices match what’s reported in returns.

4. Bank Account Proof

Refunds are credited directly to your business bank account, so you need to upload a:

• Cancelled cheque OR
• Bank passbook copy showing account number, IFSC code, and name

Make sure the bank details are pre-validated on the GST portal.

5. Declaration of No Unjust Enrichment

This is a self-declaration stating that you haven’t passed on the tax burden to someone else.

 Mandatory for most refund categories unless exempt (like exports).

Additional Documents Based on Refund Type

Let’s look at documents specific to certain refund scenarios:

1. For Export of Goods (with or without payment of tax)

If you’re exporting goods/services, you’ll need:

• Shipping bill or Airway bill
• Export General Manifest (EGM) from customs
• Bank Realization Certificate (BRC) or FIRC (for foreign remittance proof)
• Letter of Undertaking (LUT) (if export is without tax payment)
• Statement 2 of RFD-01 (in Excel format)

2. For Export of Services

• Invoice copies for services exported
• FIRC/BRC for payment received
• LUT copy (if tax not paid)
• Agreement or contract with foreign client (sometimes requested)

3. Inverted Duty Structure (Higher Tax on Inputs than Outputs)

• Purchase invoices showing higher input tax
• Sales invoices for output with lower GST rate
• Input-output tax analysis sheet
• Statement 1A (summary of input and output tax)

4. Excess Tax Paid Due to Mistake

• Proof of duplicate or excess payment
• Bank challan or electronic cash ledger showing extra tax
• Invoice copy to match claimed error
• Explanation letter (sometimes requested)

5. Refund to UN Bodies, Embassies, or Specialized Agencies

• Authorization letter from the concerned body
• Invoices with GST details
• Statement 5 (prescribed format)
• Undertaking of purpose/use

6. Deemed Exports

• Copy of supply invoices
• Payment proof
• Certificate from recipient
• Declaration by supplier and recipient

7. Final Assessment Order Refunds

• Provisional vs. final assessment comparison
• Copy of final assessment order issued by GST officer
• Refund calculation sheet

When to Submit the Documents?

All documents must be uploaded along with Form RFD-01, which should be filed within 2 years from the relevant date (depends on the type of refund).

 Pro Tip: Upload documents in PDF format (less than 5MB) and ensure naming conventions are clean to avoid confusion during processing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Documentation

Even a single document error can stall your refund. Here’s what to watch out for:

•  Mismatched invoices and returns
• Incomplete BRC/FIRC proofs
• Unvalidated bank accounts
• Submitting Excel sheets instead of PDFs (when not allowed)
•  Missing or unsigned declarations

That’s where Genuinefilings.com steps in—to ensure every file you upload is accurate, complete, and compliant.

Why Choose Genuinefilings.com for GST Refund Filing?

Handling GST refunds isn’t just about forms—it’s about understanding the rules and preparing the right documentation. At Genuinefilings.com, we:

✅ Review eligibility and refund type
✅ Collect and validate all documents
✅ Prepare and submit RFD-01 with attachments
✅ Liaise with authorities for queries or clarifications
✅ Ensure faster refunds with fewer delays

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What happens if I forget to attach a document?

Your refund may be rejected or sent back for clarification. It’s best to ensure everything is submitted together.

Q2. Can I edit documents after submission?

No, once submitted, documents cannot be edited. If needed, a fresh application or revised form must be filed.

Q3. Can I claim refund without GSTR-3B?

No, GSTR-3B filing is mandatory for most refund claims as it reflects your tax payment.

Q4. What if I submit wrong bank details?

The refund may fail to credit. You’ll need to revalidate your bank account on the GST portal and update it in your application.

Final Thoughts

Getting your GST refund isn’t hard—but it’s only smooth if you’ve got your documents in order. From invoices and shipping bills to LUTs and declarations, every file matters.

At Genuinefilings.com, we ensure you don’t miss a single step. With our expert support, your refund journey becomes hassle-free, fast, and accurate.

Ready to File Your GST Refund the Right Way?

Let Genuinefilings.com take care of your refund from start to finish—no delays, no confusion. Reach out now for a consultation, and let’s get your paperwork right the first time.