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Chapter XXI - Miscellaneous

Section 161

Section 161: Rectification of errors apparent on record

The issuing authority may correct an error apparent on the face of its GST decision, notice or document within the section 161 windows.

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Need advice on Section 161?

This article is for general information. Refer to the Central Goods and Services Tax Act, 2017 official text for the official provisions. If you need professional advice for your situation, contact Bizeneed.

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Statutory text

Bare law

Without prejudice to the provisions of section 160, and notwithstanding anything contained in any other provisions of this Act, any authority, who has passed or issued any decision or order or notice or certificate or any other document, may rectify any error which is apparent on the face of record in such decision or order or notice or certificate or any other document, either on its own motion or where such error is brought to its notice by any officer appointed under this Act or an officer appointed under the State Goods and Services Tax Act or an officer appointed under the Union Territory Goods and Services Tax Act or by the affected person within a period of three months from the date of issue of such decision or order or notice or certificate or any other document, as the case may be: Provided that no such rectification shall be done after a period of six months from the date of issue of such decision or order or notice or certificate or any other document: Provided further that the said period of six months shall not apply in such cases where the rectification is purely in the nature of correction of a clerical or arithmetical error, arising from any accidental slip or omission: Provided also that where such rectification adversely affects any person, the principles of natural justice shall be followed by the authority carrying out such rectification.

Key takeaways

1

Who can flag

The authority can act on its own or on notice from a GST officer or affected person within three months of issue.

2

Six-month outer limit

Ordinary rectification cannot occur after six months; a purely clerical or arithmetical accidental-slip correction is excepted.

3

Adverse correction

An adverse rectification must follow natural justice.

Who can flag

The authority can act on its own or on notice from a GST officer or affected person within three months of issue.

Six-month outer limit

Ordinary rectification cannot occur after six months; a purely clerical or arithmetical accidental-slip correction is excepted.

Adverse correction

An adverse rectification must follow natural justice.

Practical checklist

Do

  • Record the document issue date and precise apparent error.
  • Submit the correction request within three months where applicable.
  • Ask to be heard if the proposed correction is adverse.

Frequently asked questions

Can an adverse rectification be made without hearing?

No. The final proviso requires natural justice when rectification adversely affects a person.

Need help applying this provision to your situation?

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Last updated 10 October 2026