Got a GST notice? What to do in the first 7 days
Most GST notices can be closed at the first reply — if you answer the right question, with evidence, before the deadline. The worst response is silence: an unanswered notice can turn into a one-sided demand. Here is a calm, day-by-day plan for the first week.
Day 1: find out exactly what you’ve received
The form number tells you how serious the notice is and what the department wants:
- REG-03 — a query on your GST registration application. The reply (REG-04) is due within 7 working days.
- ASMT-10 — scrutiny of your returns: the officer has spotted discrepancies and wants an explanation. A clear reconciliation often ends the matter here.
- DRC-01A — an intimation before a show cause notice. It is your chance to pay or object before formal proceedings start.
- DRC-01 — a show cause notice proposing tax, interest and penalty. This is formal; the reply must be thorough.
- DRC-07 — the order (summary of demand). From here, an appeal must be filed within 3 months.
Day 1–2: note the dates
Write down the date the notice was issued on the portal and the reply deadline printed on it. Download every attachment. If a personal hearing is offered, note that date too. Deadlines run from communication, not from when you happen to open the portal.
Day 2–4: check whether the notice is even valid
Before arguing the numbers, check the basics: which section it is issued under, which period it covers, and whether it is within time. Sections 73 and 74 govern periods up to FY 2023-24; Section 74A applies from FY 2024-25. Notices issued after the time limit, or under the wrong section, can be challenged on that ground alone.
Day 3–6: reconcile before you write a word
Most notices come from mismatches. Line up GSTR-1, GSTR-3B, GSTR-2B and your books for the period, and check e-way bills where goods moved. For input tax credit, confirm the supplier filed and the invoice appears in your 2B. Often the "difference" is a timing issue, an amendment in a later month, or a credit note the officer has not seen.
Day 6–7: reply with evidence — or pay where it’s cheaper
Reply point by point, with an index of supporting documents. Where part of the demand is genuinely payable, paying it early (with interest) can reduce or remove penalties in non-fraud cases — sometimes the cheapest way to close a small issue. Contest what is wrong; settle what is right.
Key takeaways
- Identify the form first — REG-03, ASMT-10, DRC-01A, DRC-01 and DRC-07 need very different replies.
- Check section, period and time limit before arguing the numbers.
- Reconcile 1, 3B, 2B and books — most notices are mismatches.
- Never ignore a notice: silence can lead to a one-sided order.
Our GST notice reply starts at ₹3,500 — notice diagnosis, reconciliation, reply with evidence and one personal hearing. हिंदी में पढ़ें.
General information, reviewed on 2 October 2026 — not advice for your specific case. Rules change; talk to us before acting.