DSC GST FAQ | Top Questions Answered in One Guide

GST filing is can be a complicated task, and it's normal to have questions or face confusion sometimes.
What happens if an error occurs while filing? Who do you turn to for help?

Well, there's no need to worry! This FAQ guide breaks down everything you need to know about Digital Signature Certificates (DSC GST).

Whether you're a CA, a business owner, or a first-time GST user, DSCs can feel technical—but with the right guidance, you can navigate them smoothly, avoid errors, and file with confidence.

Want to get DSC for GST filing? Buy Capricorn DSC today and simplify your filing process!

DSC GST Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is Submit with DSC and EVC in GST?

When filing GST returns or other documents, you have two options to authenticate your submission:

DSC (Digital Signature Certificate): A secure digital signature used mainly by companies, LLPs, and other registered entities. It ensures the authenticity and integrity of your data.

EVC (Electronic Verification Code): Submit with EVC in GST means a one-time code sent to your registered mobile/email, usually used by individuals and proprietors for quick verification.

2. How to Update DSC in GST Portal?

Updating your DSC on the GST portal is simple:

1. Log in to the GST portal using your credentials.

2. Navigate to My Profile -> Update/Register DSC.

3. Select the signatory and apply for re-registration.

4. Select a new DSC certificate from the list. Click update.

4. Submit the request, and your new DSC GST will get updated.

3. How to do GST Digital Signature download?

You must first download and install the GST DSC Utility (GST DSC Signer), To use your DSC for GST filing:

1. Go to the GST Portal and sign in to your account.

2. Open My Profile from the dashboard menu.

3. Click on Register Digital Signature Certificate. On this page, you'll see a link that says “Click here for instructions on installing signer utility.” Select that.

4. A new tab will open showing the DSC GST Signer Utility download page. Choose the download link based on whether you use Windows, Mac, or Linux.

5. The installer file for the DSC GST Signer Utility will be downloaded to your system.

6. Open the downloaded file to start the installation. Click Next to proceed.

7. You can install it in the default location or choose a custom folder. Click Next, then select Install to begin.

8. After installation, click Finish to close the setup.

9. On your desktop, you'll now see the DSC GST Signer Utility icon. Right-click it and select Run as Administrator.

10. When the utility starts, you'll see a confirmation message. Press OK to continue.

11. The utility is now running in the background, and your system is ready to register and use your DSC on the GST portal.

4. Is DSC required for GST registration for company?

Yes. Companies, LLPs, and other legal entities must use a DSC for GST registration and filing. The DSC verifies the authenticity of the authorized signatory.

5. Is DSC required for GST registration for proprietorship?

No. Proprietors and individual taxpayers can use EVC for GST registration and filing. A DSC is optional for proprietorships unless specifically needed for certain returns or forms.

6. What is DSC and EVC full form in GST?

DSC: Digital Signature Certificate

EVC: Electronic Verification Code

7. I'm already registered as a taxpayer and now want to enroll under GST. But when I try to submit GST FORM-20 using a DSC, I get an error saying: “DSC is not registered with authorised signatory.” What should I do?

This error usually appears when the Digital Signature Certificate (DSC GST) you're trying to use has not been linked to the authorised signatory profile on the GST portal. Even if you're an existing taxpayer, you must map your DSC once before using it for any GST submission.

How to fix this issue:

1. Log in to the GST portal with your existing username and password.

2. Go to My Profile -> Register/Update DSC.

3. Connect your DSC token and make sure the DSC GST Signer Utility is running on your system.

4. Select the authorised signatory from the dropdown list.

5. Choose your DSC certificate from the options displayed.

6. Click Register DSC to link it with your profile.

7. After registration, go back to GST FORM-20 and submit it again.

8. Why is my DSC not showing on the GST portal?

Your DSC may not appear due to several reasons:

- The DSC GST Signer Utility is not running.

- Token drivers are not installed or are outdated.

- You're using a browser that blocks Java/utility support.

- The DSC is expired or not inserted properly.

9. What type of DSC is required for GST filing?

For GST filing, you must use a Class 3 Signing Certificate. Encryption is not required — only the Signing variant is needed.

10. Can I use Aadhaar e-sign instead of DSC for GST?

Individuals and proprietors can use EVC for filing returns. However, companies and LLPs must use DSC; e-sign is not allowed for them.

11. Why does the GST portal say “Failed to establish connection with signer”?

This message appears when the GST Signer Utility isn't running or your browser can't connect to it.

Fix it by:

- Running the DSC GST Signer Utility as Administrator

- Restarting the browser

- Checking if another signer utility is conflicting

- Reconnecting the USB token

12. Can I use the same DSC for multiple GST registrations?

Yes. One authorized signatory can use the same DSC across multiple GSTINs, provided their name and PAN match across all registrations.

13. My DSC is expired. Can I still file GST returns?

No. Once a DSC expires, you cannot use it to sign GST forms. You must renew your DSC and register the new one under your name.

14. Does the GST portal support DSC on mobile devices?

No. DSCs require token drivers and the GST Signer Utility, which are not supported on mobile phones or tablets. You must use a desktop.

15. Why is GST showing the error “PAN mismatch in DSC”?

This error appears when the DSC PAN does not match the PAN of the authorized signatory in GST records.

You must use a DSC issued in the same PAN as the person registered in the GST portal.

16. Can I change the authorised signatory's DSC in GST?

Yes.

You can update or replace the DSC anytime by going to:
My Profile -> Register/Update DSC
Just plug in the new DSC token and register it.

17. Does a partnership firm require DSC for GST filing?

A partnership firm can use DSC or EVC, but a DSC is not mandatory for a partnership firm It can use a EVC.

18. What to do if the DSC utility shows “No certificate found”?

Try these fixes:

- Make sure your USB token is properly inserted

- Install or update token drivers

- Restart the DSC GST Signer Utility

- Ensure the certificate is valid and not expired

19. Do I need to re-register my DSC on the GST portal after renewal?

Yes. When your DSC is renewed, it is treated as a new certificate, so you must register it again.

You must get your DSC renewal done quickly from a trusted Certifying Authority like Capricorn CA.

20. How to register DSC on GST portal?

1. Log in

2. Go to My Profile

3. Select Register/Update DSC

4. Run the DSC GST Signer Utility

5. Connect your USB token

6. Select your certificate

7. Click Register DSC.

Want to know the steps to register DSC on GST portal in full detail? CLICK HERE

21. Can I use a DSC issued in someone else's name for my GST filing?

No. The DSC must belong to the authorised signatory registered in the GST portal.
A DSC in any other person's name will be rejected.

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Final Words

Navigating DSC-related processes on the GST portal doesn't have to be confusing. With the right clarity, you can avoid common errors, complete filings smoothly, and stay fully compliant. This DSC GST FAQ guide was created to simplify every step.

If you ever need a quick reference, you can refer to this instead of wasting time searching for a DSC GST FAQ PDF everywhere.

And remember — having a reliable DSC makes a big difference in your GST filing experience.