Export Incentives & Taxation
GST Refund Calculator for Exporters
Estimate your GST refund on exports under the LUT route (Rule 89(4)) or the IGST-paid route. Enter your turnover and ITC figures below to see an instant, browser-based estimate.
then press Calculate.
GST Refund Formula Reference — for Exporters
Compiled with reference to CGST Rule 89(4) (LUT / zero-rated route) and Section 16 of the IGST Act (IGST-paid route). Always verify the exact figures on your GSTR-1, GSTR-3B and shipping bill before filing Form RFD-01.
| Route | Applicable When | Refund Formula | Filed Via |
|---|---|---|---|
| LUT / Bond Route | Export made without paying IGST, under a Letter of Undertaking | (Zero-Rated Turnover × Net ITC) ÷ Adjusted Total Turnover | Form RFD-01 on GST Portal |
| IGST-Paid Route | IGST paid at the time of export, refund claimed afterward | 100% of IGST paid, matched to Shipping Bill data | Auto-processed via ICEGATE + GSTR-1/3B |
This calculator gives an indicative estimate only. The actual refund sanctioned by the GST department depends on data matching between GSTR-1, GSTR-3B, GSTR-2B and your shipping bill / EGM, along with any restrictions under Rule 96(10) or pending notices.
What is the LUT Route?
Under a Letter of Undertaking (LUT), an exporter ships goods or services without paying IGST at the time of export. The accumulated Input Tax Credit (ITC) on inputs is then claimed back as a cash refund using the Rule 89(4) formula above.
What is the IGST-Paid Route?
Here, the exporter pays IGST on the export invoice like any other GST-liable supply, and later claims a refund of that exact IGST amount. This route is usually faster since it is largely auto-processed once the shipping bill matches GSTR-1 and the Export General Manifest (EGM).
Frequently Asked Questions
Most regular exporters prefer the LUT route since it avoids blocking working capital in IGST payment. The IGST-paid route can be simpler for one-off or occasional exporters since the refund process is largely automated through ICEGATE.
It generally means the total turnover of the registered person during the relevant period, excluding the value of exempt supplies (other than zero-rated supplies) and turnover of supplies for which refund is claimed under Rules 89(4A) or 89(4B).
Yes. A refund application must generally be filed within two years from the relevant date (typically the date of export for goods), so refunds should be claimed promptly after each tax period.