How to Cancel GST Registration Online

By Clear Fillings

Published on Oct 25, 2025

 The Goods and Services Tax (GST) system was introduced to simplify India’s indirect tax structure. However, there may be times when a business needs to cancel its GST registration—either because operations have stopped, turnover has dropped below the threshold, or the business has been transferred. Whatever the reason, the process for cancellation of GST registration in India can be easily completed online through the GST portal.

This article provides a detailed step-by-step guide on how to cancel GST registration online, along with important rules, documents required, and post-cancellation procedures.

🧩 Why Cancel GST Registration?

Before understanding the steps, it’s important to know why a GST registration might need to be cancelled. Some of the common reasons include:

1. Business Closure: When a business has permanently stopped operations.

2. Turnover Below Threshold: If the annual turnover falls below ₹20 lakhs (₹40 lakhs for goods suppliers in some states).

3. Change in Business Constitution: Conversion from proprietorship to partnership, or merger with another entity.

4. Transfer or Sale of Business: When the ownership or management changes.

5. Voluntary Cancellation: If the taxpayer wants to discontinue GST registration voluntarily.

6. Death of Proprietor: In the case of an individual business owner’s demise.

Understanding the reason helps you select the correct option while filing the cancellation application on the portal.

🌐 Where to Cancel GST Registration?

GST registration cancellation can be done only through the official GST portal (www.gst.gov.in). The online process ensures transparency, faster processing, and no need for physical visits to the GST office.

🪜 How to Cancel GST Registration Online Step by Step

Let’s go through the step-by-step process for cancellation of GST registration in India:

Step 1: Visit the GST Portal

Go to the official GST Portal.
Login using your GSTIN, username, and password.

Step 2: Navigate to the Cancellation Form

After logging in, click on:

• Services → Registration → Application for Cancellation of Registration

This section allows taxpayers to file a request for cancellation.

Step 3: Select the Reason for Cancellation

From the dropdown menu, select the reason for cancellation.
Options include:

• Discontinuance of business

• Change in business constitution

• Transfer of business

• Turnover below threshold limit

• Others

Step 4: Enter the Date of Cancellation

Provide the effective date from which you want the registration to be cancelled. Ensure this date aligns with your last GST return period.

Step 5: Furnish Details of Stock and Liabilities

You must enter details of:

• Stock held on the date of cancellation

• Tax payable on such stock
  These values ensure all tax liabilities are cleared before cancellation.

Step 6: Upload Supporting Documents (if applicable)

You may need to attach:

• Proof of business closure

• Board resolution (for companies)

• Death certificate (for proprietorship)

• Transfer agreement or merger documents (if applicable)

Step 7: Verify and Submit

After filling all details, verify your application using:

• Digital Signature Certificate (DSC), or

• EVC (Electronic Verification Code) sent to the registered mobile/email.

Once submitted, an Application Reference Number (ARN) will be generated.

Step 8: Track Application Status

You can track your cancellation status by navigating to:

• Services → Track Application Status
  Enter your ARN to check the current progress.

Step 9: Approval and Cancellation Certificate

Once approved, the GST department will issue an order of cancellation and GST cancellation certificate (Form GST REG-19).
You can download this certificate from your GST portal account.

📋 Documents Required for GST Cancellation

Before applying online, keep the following documents ready:

• PAN and Aadhaar of the business owner

• Proof of business closure or sale agreement

• Details of stock and tax payment

• Authorization letter (for companies or partnerships)

• GST return filings up to date

⚖️ Important Rules for GST Cancellation

1. Pending Dues Must Be Cleared:
   All tax dues, penalties, and interest must be paid before cancellation.

2. Final Return (Form GSTR-10):
   Within three months from the date of cancellation, you must file Form GSTR-10 to declare any remaining tax liability.

3. Re-registration Requirement:
   If you restart your business later, you’ll need to apply for a new GST registration.

4. Voluntary Cancellation:
   Businesses registered voluntarily can also apply for cancellation after one year from the date of registration.

🕒 Timeline for Cancellation Approval

Normally, it takes 15–30 working days for the GST officer to process the cancellation request. However, in some cases, if additional clarification or documents are required, it may take slightly longer.

🔍 How to Check GST Cancellation Status

After submitting your application:

1. Log in to the GST portal.

2. Go to Services → Track Application Status.

3. Enter your ARN.

4. The system will show whether your application is pending, approved, or rejected.

💡 Tips Before Cancelling GST Registration

• Ensure all GST returns (GSTR-1, GSTR-3B, GSTR-9) are filed before applying.

• Keep invoices and stock details updated.

• If you have an active business bank account linked to GST, close or update it accordingly.

• Download and store your GST registration certificate and returns records for future reference.

✅ Key Takeaways

• The process for cancellation of GST registration in India is simple and can be completed online.

• Businesses can apply voluntarily or after closure.

• Always file the final return (GSTR-10) to avoid future penalties.

• Keep all supporting documents ready before applying.

📌 Conclusion

Cancelling a GST registration is a straightforward digital process if done carefully. Whether your business has closed or your turnover is below the limit, the how to cancel GST registration online step by step method ensures compliance with GST laws. By following the correct procedure, filing the necessary returns, and maintaining documentation, you can smoothly complete the process for cancellation of GST registration in India without any legal complications.