🌐 Export Invoice & Revenue Details
Export GST Benefit Breakdown
GST LUT Export Guide for Freelancers & IT Firms
With LUT vs Without LUT Comparison
Without LUT: You pay 18% IGST on export invoices out of pocket and file refund claims with GST authorities.
With LUT: You pay ₹0 IGST upfront, preserving 100% of your export cash flow.
Mandatory FIRC / BIRC Condition
To satisfy zero-rated export rules, foreign payments MUST be realized in convertible foreign exchange (USD, EUR, GBP) supported by FIRC/BIRC certificates from PayPal, Stripe, Payoneer, or banks.
💡 Pro Hack: File Before April 1
LUT is valid for 1 financial year. Always file Form GST RFD-11 online before April 1 to avoid export invoice delays.
⚡ Claim Unutilized ITC Refund
Under LUT, you can claim a cash refund for the 18% GST paid on business laptops, cloud servers, and office software under Section 54(3).
🛡️ Add LUT ARN on Invoices
Always print the declaration "Supply Meant for Export Under LUT Without Payment of IGST" along with your LUT ARN on client invoices.
⚠️ 3 Common GST LUT Export Mistakes
- • Receiving Payment in Indian Rupees (INR): Export payments received in INR (unless from Nepal/Bhutan) do NOT qualify as zero-rated exports under LUT.
- • Failing to Realize Payment Within 1 Year: If foreign remittance is not received within 1 year from invoice date, 18% IGST plus interest must be paid.
- • Forgetting Annual LUT Renewal: Exporting under an expired LUT forces you to pay 18% IGST with penalty.