What is API Access in GST: How to Enable API Access in GST Portal​

Have you ever been curious to know why companies are so concerned with API access in GST nowadays? Efficiency is not an option in a time when the deadlines are stricter and reporting errors can be expensive. GST API access is a connection between the government portal and your accounting software, where the data is transferred seamlessly without any manual effort. 

The ability to enable API access in the GST portal is no longer an option for professionals and enterprises, but the gateway to seamless filing of returns. 

With GST API access, you will achieve automation, precision, and real-time tax compliance. 

The result? Less anxiety, quicker submissions, and more control of your business responsibilities. 

Isn’t that what every business owner requires today?

What is API Access in GST?

Have you ever thought about how businesses effectively manage their GST returns, automate processes and stay compliant? API (Application Programming Interface) access is the secret. Simply put, API access to the GST portal enables third-party systems or software applications to integrate directly with the GSTN and share real-time data.

GST with API access allows businesses to connect their accounting or ERP systems to the GST portal. This is done to make returns filing, e-way bill generation and reconciliation of ITC easier than ever, in such a way that minimal or no manual work is required. 

What Can You Do with GST API Access?

Here’s what GST API access you can use for:

Registration and Profile Management

GST API access can help update business details, add new registrations, or modify existing information.

Return Filing Services:

This includes:

• GSTR-1 (Outward supplies)

• GSTR-3B (Monthly summary return)

• GSTR-9 (Annual return)

• Other applicable returns based on your business type

Payment and Ledger Services

Track payment status, view electronic cash ledger, and monitor input tax credit details.

Compliance Monitoring

It helps you in tracking and monitoring your GST compliance status at scale. 

GST API Access: Real-Life Use Case 

Suppose you are a wholesaler in Chennai having thousands of invoices to deal with. When you have access to the GST API, your ERP can automatically submit invoices to the GST portal, cross-check GSTINs, and file returns without you worrying about the details as you grow your business. 

How to Enable API Access in GST Portal​

It is easier than you can imagine to enable API access from the GST portal. The following are the steps that you should follow to enable API access in the GST portal: 

Step 1: Go to the GST Portal

Visit www.gst.gov.in and then log in with your valid credentials. 

Step 2: Log in to Your Profile

After logging in, you will land on the Dashboard. In the top-right corner, click on your name. And then click on ”My Profile”. This is where all your account settings are located. 

Step 3: Locate the API Access Option

Find the ”Manage API Access” option on the page and click on it. 

Step 4: Turn on the API

On the ”Manage API Access” page, find the ”Enable API Request” option. To enable this option, click on ‘Yes’. Now the drop-down menu will appear. 

Step 5: Choose the Duration

In the drop-down menu, you will see an option to choose the duration for which you want to enable API access. 

Step 6: Duration Options Include:

• 6 hours (minimum)
• 12 hours
• 24 hours
• 7 days
• 15 days
• 30 days (maximum)

Based on your requirement, you can select the duration. 

Step 7: Confirmation 

Click “Confirm” to activate the API access.

Manage API Access in GST

After enabling GST API access, it is important to manage it effectively. It is done as a precautionary step. The following are some of the important things to keep in mind:

• Access Control: Ensure that your API keys are not accessible to unauthorised users. 

• Keep Track of API Usage: You should monitor the API logs to make sure that the API calls are being correctly made and there are no errors.

• Updating API Keys: Sometimes, the GST portal may change its API. Ensure you have the latest API and update your system accordingly.

• Backup Data: It is important to have a backup of your GST data so that you do not lose data in case of API failure. ​

Closing Notes 

In this fast-paced business world, it is more important than ever to stay on top of your GST requirements. GST API access offers a convenient, efficient and accurate method to manage your returns, e-way bills and ITC reconciliations. Automation of these processes helps businesses to save time, minimise errors and remain compliant with minimum effort.

Therefore, as a small business owner, a CA with a range of clients, or any individual who wants to make GST compliance less complicated, incorporating API access into your system is the way to go. 

If you don’t want to get into the complexities of the GST API and still want to streamline your GST compliance process, then you must consider signing up with Munim GST Return Filing software. It has everything you need to manage GST compliance and is designed to execute things at a much faster speed with minimal human intervention. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

Can a startup access the GST API?

Whether you are a startup, small business or large enterprise, everyone can access the GST API if they have GST registration. ​

What is the use of API access in GST?​

The following are the primary use cases of API access in GST. 

• Automate GST Return Filing
• Generate E-Way Bills
• Input Tax Credit (ITC) Reconciliation
• Bulk Uploading of Invoices

How to enable API access in GST for Tally Prime?

The following steps are involved in enabling GST API access for TallyPrime:

• Install TallyPrime on your system
• Activate GST features in TallyPrime
• Configure API Access from the GST portal
• Link Tally to the GST Portal via API keys
• Test the integration
• Use API Access for return filing