How to Download GSTR-2B from the GST Portal

When is GSTR-2B available?

GSTR-2B is auto-generated on the GST portal, typically on the 12th–14th of the month following the tax period for monthly filers. Download it as soon as it is available — do not wait until GSTR-3B filing week.

Step 1: Log in to the GST portal

Go to gst.gov.inand log in with the client's GSTIN credentials. Ensure you are logged in under the correct GSTIN if the client has multiple registrations across states.

Step 2: Navigate to GSTR-2B

1. Click Services → Returns
2. Select Returns Dashboard
3. Choose the financial year and return period
4. Click GSTR-2B (auto-drafted ITC statement)

Step 3: Download in JSON format (recommended for reconciliation)

JSON is the preferred format for reconciliation software like Complytics. It preserves all fields without Excel formatting issues.

1. On the GSTR-2B page, click Download
2. Select JSON format
3. Save the file with a clear name: e.g. GSTR2B_29ABCDE1234F1Z5_082025.json

Step 4: Download in Excel format (alternative)

Excel works for manual reconciliation or when JSON is not available. Watch for leading zeros stripped from invoice numbers — a common cause of false mismatches in VLOOKUP.

Step 5: Review IMS before reconciling

Before reconciling, check the Invoice Management System (IMS) for pending invoices. Accept valid invoices so they appear in GSTR-2B. See our IMS accept/reject guide.

Step 6: Upload to reconciliation software

Upload the GSTR-2B file alongside the purchase register export. Map columns once and save as a template for recurring monthly uploads. See the full reconciliation guide.