Invalid Summary Payload Error in GSTR 10: Reasons and Solutions

Invalid summary payload errors are commonly seen in GSTR-9 and GSTR 10. Knowing the resolution is essential for proceeding to file the returns. This article will explore the causes of invalid summary payload errors and how a taxpayer can resolve them.

Key Takeaways:

• Missing fields, length of values, data format mismatch or address errors lead to an invalid summary payload error.
• Ensure to use up-to-date filing solutions and those that support data validations before submission of returns to avoid these errors.

What is an Invalid Summary Payload Error?

"Invalid Summary Payload" error is generated by the GST portal at the time of submitting returns. This error states that the data submitted doesn't meet the GST portal's data structure requirement or data validation rules. This error most commonly appears while filing GST returns such as GSTR-9 and GSTR-10. 

What is Meant by 'Invalid Summary Payload in GSTR 10?

GSTR-10 is filed by a taxpayer when their GST registration has been cancelled or surrendered by them. An invalid summary payload error in GSTR 10 may be generated on account of any of the below-

1. The taxpayer’s physical address error, or
2. Data formatting issue, or
3. Missing mandatory fields while submitting the form.

What is an Invalid Summary Payload in GSTR 9?

GSTR 9, or the annual return, is filed by a taxpayer for each financial year. This return requires data input related to sales, purchases and GST liability/refund reconciliation for the financial year. An invalid summary payload error in GSTR 9 may be generated for the following reasons:

1. Input numbers in numerical fields of GSTR 9 should not exceed 14 digits, and any decimals in the input numbers are allowed, or
2. GSTR 9 is submitted with inputs missing in mandatory fields, or
3. Input other than numbers (for example, text or special characters) is placed in numeric fields, also called data mismatch errors.

For resolutions, read our article on ‘Invalid summary payload in GSTR-9’.

Invalid Summary Payload Error Reasons

Broad reasons for invalid summary payload errors in GSTR 9 & GSTR 10 are summarised as follows:

1. The number of digits entered for numerical fields is more than 14. Decimals are used while inputting numeric data. 
2. Mandatory fields are left blank or missing, especially for nil values, which are required in case there is no numeric input.
3. Data formatting issues, such as using the wrong data types when inputting data, for instance, brackets or quotation marks in the input data.
4. Sometimes, technical glitches on the GST portal can occur, which may cause errors despite the correct data being entered.

Invalid Summary Payload Error Solutions

1. Review all values for digit length and decimals; ensure the number of digits is restricted to 14 and no decimals are used for numeric values, i.e., the values should be rounded to the nearest integer.
2. Enter "0" or “.” for mandatory fields instead of leaving them empty. This is only applicable when complete data is already incorporated in the respective returns.
3. Ensure to use trusted/authorised compliance solution providers such as Clear Finance Cloud or GSTN’s online or offline tools for return preparation and uploading, as it minimises data incompatibility.
4. For GSTR-10, if there are errors related to updating address details (GSTR-10) for future correspondence, try entering the address manually, even if it has already been generated by the GST Portal.
5. When using the Excel tool provided by the GST Portal, the user should use the 'Paste Value' function rather than just the 'Paste' function; the Excel tool will automatically apply the desired format required by the portal. 
6. Lastly, if this error is not resolved, you can reach out to GSTN Helpdesk at helpdesk@gst.gov.in or call 1800-103-4786.