A Letter of Undertaking (LUT) under GST is a document that exporters can file to export goods or services without the payment of Integrated GST (IGST). Filing an LUT allows businesses to avoid blocking their working capital in tax payments, which would otherwise be claimed as a refund later. An LUT is valid for one financial year, and it must be renewed annually.
Any registered taxpayer who intends to export goods or services without paying IGST can file an LUT, provided they have not been prosecuted for any offense under the GST law where the amount exceeds ₹250 lakh.
Filing a Letter of Undertaking (LUT) under GST is a streamlined process with minimal documentation, as it is primarily based on self-declaration. However, the following details and documents are typically needed:
GST Identification Number (GSTIN):
The unique identification number provided to the registered taxpayer under GST.
Details of the Authorized Signatory:
Name, designation, and contact details of the person authorized to sign and submit the LUT on behalf of the company or business.
Export Details (if applicable):
Previous year’s export turnover details (for existing exporters).
Estimated export turnover for the current financial year.
Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) or Electronic Verification Code (EVC):
A DSC is required if you are a company or an LLP. For others, an EVC can be used to sign the LUT.
Declaration in the LUT Form:
The LUT form includes a declaration where the exporter agrees to comply with the GST laws. No separate document needs to be uploaded, as the declaration is part of the online filing process.
No Physical Documents Required: The LUT filing is a completely online process. There is no need to upload or submit any physical documents unless specifically requested by the GST officer.
ARN and Approval: Once the LUT is filed and submitted, an Application Reference Number (ARN) is generated as proof of submission. The approval is usually granted immediately or within a few days.