CBIC Launches ICEGATE e-Payment Platform for Collection of Voluntary Payment Electronically:

CBIC Launches ICEGATE e-Payment Platform for Collection of Voluntary Payment Electronically The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) has announced the launch of the ICEGATE e-Payment Platform for voluntary or self-initiated payments (SIP) via a circular. The ICEGATE e-Payment Platform now supports Voluntary/Self-Initiated Payments (SIP), replacing the previous manual TR-6 Challan payment method, simplifying the payment procedure for importers, exporters, and others. Users can generate self-initiated challans and make voluntary payments online without the need for previous Customs officer approval. This facility, available after login for registered ICEGATE users, accepts payments for prior imports/exports but not for live consignment clearing. Currently, ICEGATE users can make voluntary payments as a debit from the Electronic Cash Ledger (only available for IEC holders and Customs Brokers). In case users wish to initiate a challan-wise payment, the ICEGATE platform also allows users to make transaction-wise payments on the platform, whereby the system's design takes care of routing the payment instantaneously through Electronic Cash Ledger before accounting for duty payment. Apart from above mentioned details, the following have been noted:

• Payment options include internet banking (9 banks), NEFT/RTGS, payment aggregators, and electronic cash ledgers (for IEC holders and customs brokers).
• Manual TR-6 payments will be discontinued after December 31, 2024, unless specifically approved.
• A complete user manual on the Voluntary/ Self-Initiated Payment (SIP) facility is accessible on the ICEGATE portal to help stakeholders.

Trade and Customs officers should publicise and facilitate the shift to this digital payment system. For Official Circular Download PDF Given Below: