Knowledge Centre

GST

GST Practitioner and Authorised Representative: Understand the Roles

Understand the different functions of a GST Practitioner, an authorised representative and the taxable person before assigning filing or representation work.

Reviewed 19 August 2026 8 min read Author: BizSarthi Editorial Team · Reviewer: Editorial Review Desk

Important: This guide is general information, not a Government communication or approval promise. Current law, portal behaviour and the relevant authority control the actual application.

A GST Practitioner supports defined portal work

The GST portal provides a formal enrolment framework for GST Practitioners. The taxpayer should understand which returns, applications or statements are being prepared and must review the accuracy of the underlying business data.

Authorised representation is a separate scope

Appearance or representation before a GST officer or appellate authority is governed by applicable law and authorisation. The proposed representative's eligibility, authority letter and exact matter should be confirmed before engagement. A general advisory relationship does not automatically create authority to represent the taxpayer.

The taxable person retains core responsibility

Outsourcing preparation does not remove the business's responsibility to provide complete records, approve filings and preserve evidence. Credentials, OTPs and authorisations should be handled through secure and documented processes.

What to record in the engagement

  • Exact return, notice or proceeding covered
  • Period, GSTIN and authority involved
  • Who prepares, reviews, approves and submits
  • Authorisation format and validity
  • Professional fee, Government payment and exclusions
  • No guarantee of authority outcome

Frequently asked questions

Can any consultant appear as an authorised representative?

No. Eligibility and authorisation must be checked under the applicable law for the specific proceeding.

Does a GST Practitioner own the taxpayer's data responsibility?

No. The taxpayer must provide correct records, review the work and remain responsible for its statutory obligations.

Connect the guide to your case

Review the exact scope before payment.

Share your business type, location and intended use. Professional fees, Government charges, documents and exclusions will be explained separately.

Official references

Call