GST Registration Cancellation (REG-17) and Revocation (REG-21)

The proper officer can propose cancellation of registration through Form REG-17, often with immediate suspension. If cancelled, an application for revocation can be made in Form REG-21.

GST, Chhattisgarh

What this notice means

Cancellation stops you from issuing tax invoices and affects your buyers’ ITC. Prompt replies and filing of pending returns are usually needed for restoration.

Common reasons it is issued

  • Returns not filed: six continuous months for monthly filers, two continuous tax periods for quarterly filers, or the composition annual return more than three months late
  • Bank account details not furnished (Rule 10A)
  • Registration obtained by fraud, wilful misstatement or suppression of facts (Section 29(2)(e)), which is often alleged where the business is not found at the registered place

From 1 November 2026, Rule 21 (substituted by Notification No. 05/2026-Central Tax) lists only the return, bank account and Rule 23 grounds. Earlier grounds such as not conducting business from the declared place, or availing ITC in violation of Section 16, are no longer in Rule 21, so a notice issued on or after that date must be checked against the ground it actually states.

Time limit to respond

Reply to REG-17 in REG-18 within 7 working days. Revocation application in REG-21 within 90 days from the service of the cancellation order. The Additional or Joint Commissioner, or the Commissioner, can extend this by up to 180 days for sufficient cause (Rule 23(1)).

Documents to keep ready

  • REG-17 notice or cancellation order
  • Proof of place of business (rent agreement, photos, electricity bill)
  • Pending returns and tax payment

How we handle it

  1. File all pending returns with tax, interest and late fee
  2. Reply in REG-18 or apply for revocation in REG-21 with evidence
  3. Attend the hearing or physical verification
  4. File an appeal if revocation is rejected

Points to note

  • Retrospective cancellation affects buyers’ ITC and can be challenged
  • Physical verification reports should be sought and rebutted
  • From 1 April 2027, suspension and cancellation for non-filing will be system-driven (new Rules 21A, 22 and 23A), with revocation in REG-21 within 180 days once all returns and dues are filed

What usually comes next

Frequently asked questions

Can I appeal against cancellation?

Yes. An appeal lies before the Appellate Authority under Section 107, in addition to the revocation route.

Official sources

Received a notice or an order?

Call us to talk it through. Keep the notice and its response date handy.

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