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Having Trouble Filing GST Amnesty Applications? Here’s What You Should Know

📌 What Is the GST Amnesty Scheme Under Section 128A?

The amnesty scheme is a one-time relief provided by the government under Section 128A of the CGST Act, 2017.

It allows taxpayers to:

Waive off late fees and penalties
File old pending returns without heavy financial burden
Settle outstanding demands with a simplified process

To apply for this relief, taxpayers must file forms SPL-01 or SPL-02 on the GST portal.

A Small Trader’s Big Concern

Neha owns a small garments shop in Jaipur. Like many small business owners, she got busy during the pandemic and missed filing some of her GST returns. When the government announced an amnesty scheme under Section 128A of the CGST Act, she breathed a sigh of relief.

But when she tried filing the SPL-01 waiver application on the GST portal, she ran into a technical glitch. The portal simply refused to proceed, and she started worrying—Will I miss this golden chance to clear old dues?

If you’re in the same situation, you’re not alone. More than 3 lakh applications have already been filed, but many taxpayers are still facing technical problems.

Let’s break down what’s happening and how you can still apply under this valuable scheme.

⚠️ What’s the Problem? Why Are Some Taxpayers Stuck?

As of June 8, 2025, over 3,02,658 waiver applications have already been successfully submitted. However, the GSTN (Goods and Services Tax Network) has received several complaints from taxpayers who are unable to file the forms due to:

Technical glitches on the portal
Auto-population errors (especially in payment sections)
Trouble navigating or submitting the form due to system load
Unresponsive buttons or incomplete validation

🔄 Alternate Filing Method Now Available

Responding to these concerns, various trade associations and professional bodies reached out to the government, asking for an alternative route.

In response, GSTN has provided an alternate filing method for taxpayers facing these technical issues.

👉 You can find the detailed filing steps in this official link:
Click to download the step-by-step filing guide (PDF)

This guide explains:

How to navigate errors
What details to prepare in advance
Workarounds for known portal issues

🛠️ What Should You Do If You’re Facing Issues?

If you’re unable to file SPL-01 or SPL-02 through the regular portal, follow this plan:

✅ Step-by-Step Checklist:

Try again using the guide: Go through the official PDF tutorial and attempt the filing using the alternate method.
Prepare your data: Make sure all your challans, returns, and payment details are in place before starting.
Use a different browser: Sometimes switching from Chrome to Firefox (or vice versa) helps.
Clear your cache: Portal errors are often due to stored cookies or browser cache.
Try non-peak hours: Filing late at night or early morning may reduce load-related issues.

📞 Still Facing Problems? Raise a Ticket

If you’ve tried everything and still can’t file the application, don’t panic. The GSTN has provided a dedicated self-service portal for you to raise a complaint.

🖱️ Visit: https://selfservice.gstsystem.in
Here you can:

Submit a technical complaint
Attach screenshots of your issue
Track the status of your ticket

It’s important to raise the issue early, especially since the deadline is fast approaching.

⏰ Don’t Wait! The Deadline Is Closer Than You Think

The last date to file waiver applications under this scheme is not far away. If you miss it:

You’ll lose the chance to reduce your late fees
Your old GST dues may attract penalties or legal action
You may face notices or even ITC restrictions

If you haven’t filed your application yet, now is the time.

📊 Quick Summary: What You Need to Know

✔️ SPL-01/02 are forms used to apply for GST waiver under the amnesty scheme.
✔️ Some taxpayers are facing technical issues on the portal.
✔️ GSTN has provided an alternate method to help such users.
✔️ A step-by-step PDF guide is available here.
✔️ You can also raise complaints on the GST Self-Service Portal.
✔️ Filing early helps avoid last-minute technical rush.

✅ Conclusion: Don’t Miss This Opportunity

This amnesty scheme is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to clean your GST records and avoid unnecessary penalties. Whether you’re a small trader, a freelancer, or a business with older dues, it’s better to act now than regret later.

And if you’re facing problems on the portal, don’t give up! Try the alternative method and raise a complaint if needed. The government is listening, and help is available.

💡 Pro Tip: Don’t wait till the last date. Portal traffic and errors tend to peak at the end. File early, stay stress-free.

If you need help with filing your GST amnesty application, our team at Taxgyany is just a call away.

SOURCES- https://tutorial.gst.gov.in/downloads/news/link_data.pdf