GST: Someone charging GST illegally? Here's where you can report it

It has been a little over six years since the new Goods and Services Tax (GST) regime was introduced and led to a major reform in the indirect taxation system in India. The changes have benefited thousands across the country. But, a few people have also been making attempts to trick the system and some clueless customers. As per GST Helpline India, some of the most common types of GST fraud include collecting taxes on GST-free products/services, overcharging the duty, and fraudsters posing as GST officers to dupe businessmen and small traders.

From business enterprises to shopkeepers, dealers, and even restaurants, many businesses illegally levy GST on products and services though they don't pay the tax.  

In light of such incidents, the GST Council has set up its grievance redressal portal through which customers and taxpayers can lodge their complaints or seek answers to GST-related issues.

Here is everything you need to know about the GST Complaint Portal.

What is the GST Complaint Portal and how does it work?

The GST Complaint Portal helps taxpayers and customers to file a complaint or raise their grievances regarding any issues that they have encountered. Taxpayers can also describe their concerns regarding GSTIN verification and number check, along with screenshots of the bills or relevant documents for speedy redressal.  The portal is designed in a user-friendly manner and helps individuals lodge their issues and raise tickets themselves. One can also check the progress of the ticket raised and the status of the complaints.

How can one report GST fraud?

For those who wish to file a GST-related complaint about any illegal charges or fraud, there are a number of ways through which one can raise their grievances.

1. Visit the GST portal at gst.gov.in.

2. Scroll down to find the 'Grievance Redressal Portal for GST' link and click on it.

3. You will be redirected to a new page by the portal.

4. Click on 'Report Issue' and lodge your 'Type of Issue/Concern'.

Call the toll-free number of the GST Complaint Portal:

Taxpayers can also share their concerns by calling on the toll-free number 1800-103-4786. After registering the complaint, they will be given an acknowledgment with a ticket reference number (TRN) which can be used for tracking the complaint status.