Procedure for Updating Geocoded Addresses on the GST Portal

The Goods and Services Tax (GST) Department mandates geolocation for taxpayers when initiating new GST registrations or adding additional business locations. Geolocation features within GST enable businesses to precisely update their Google-verified addresses, enhancing accuracy and simplifying the process for new registrations or modifications to existing accounts. This article provides a comprehensive guide on accepting and updating your business's geocoded address on the official GST portal.

Geocoding Steps for Existing GST Taxpayers

This section outlines the procedure to geocode or geolocate your business address on the GST portal:

1. Step 1: Access the GST Portal by logging in with your user ID and password. Upon successful login, an alert will be displayed to all eligible taxpayers regarding geocoding.
2. Step 2: Click 'Continue' on the displayed message or navigate through Services > Registration > Geocoding principal place of business.
3. Step 3: A screen will appear, showing all current details of your primary business location as recorded in your GST registration.

How to Accept a Geocoded Address

If the proposed geocoded address details are correct, follow these instructions:

1. Step 1: Select the 'Accept geocoded address' button.
2. Step 2: The system will display the accepted address below the map, automatically populating and locking all relevant fields.
3. Step 3: Mark the Verification checkbox, select the authorized signatory's name from the dropdown list, and specify the application's location.
4. Step 4: Depending on your setup, click either 'Submit with DSC' or 'Submit with EVC'.
5. Step 5: For DSC submissions, choose your certificate and sign to proceed. For EVC submissions, input the One-Time Password (OTP) sent to your registered email and mobile number.
6. Step 6: A confirmation message will appear after successful verification, and notifications will be sent to your registered contact details via email and SMS.

How to Update a Geocoded Address

If the geocoded address is not visible or requires modifications, click 'Update geocoded address' and follow these steps:

1. Step 1: After clicking 'Update geocoded address', the existing principal place of business details, based on your registration, will be shown alongside a map.
2. Step 2: Adjust the map pin to the precise business location and click 'Confirm'. The corresponding address fields will automatically populate based on this selection. Alternatively, enter the address into the "Locate your address" field and pick from the suggestions; the map and location will update accordingly.
3. Step 3: The fields will be automatically populated based on your map selection; complete any remaining empty fields. You can also use 'Reset address' if you wish to enter an entirely different address.
4. Step 4: Attempting to move the map pointer outside of India will result in an error message.
5. Step 5: Check the verification box, select the authorized signatory's name from the dropdown, and specify the filing location.
6. Step 6: Based on eligibility, choose either 'Submit with DSC' or 'Submit with EVC'. A 'Remind me later' option is available if you prefer to finalize the process at a later time.
7. Step 7: For DSC, select your certificate and sign. For EVC, enter the OTP sent to your registered email and phone number.
8. Step 8: A confirmation message will appear, and notifications will be sent to your registered email and SMS.

It is important to note that modifying the geocoded address does not alter the principal place of business stated on your Registration Certificate. A separate core amendment application is necessary for such changes.