How to Claim Google Ads TDS Refund in India (2025 Guide)

Google Ads is one of the most popular platforms used by Indian businesses to run online advertising campaigns. However, since Google charges advertising fees in India, advertisers are required to comply with TDS (Tax Deducted at Source) rules under the Income Tax Act.

But here's the issue most advertisers face

• Google charges the full invoice amount, including GST
• You cannot deduct TDS before making a payment

This means you need to deposit TDS separately from your own pocket, even though legally the TDS should be deducted from Google's payout.

The good news?

Google allows advertisers to claim a TDS refund (reimbursement).

This updated guide explains how to claim your Google Ads TDS refund, eligibility, deadlines, required documents, and the complete step-by-step process.

Is TDS Required on Google Ads Payments?

Yes. Under Section 194C of the Income Tax Act, TDS must be deducted if:

• Your total yearly Google Ads payment exceeds Rs 1,00,000, or
• Any single payment is above Rs 30,000

TDS Rate for Google Ads

• 2% on invoice amount (excluding GST)
• Never calculate TDS on GST.

How to Claim Google Ads TDS Refund (Step-by-Step Process)

1. Deposit TDS to the Income Tax Department

Pay the TDS amount under Section 194C using a Challan.

2. File Your TDS Return

While filing TDS returns, ensure that the entry is linked with Google's PAN (available on your Google Ads invoices).

3. Download Form 16A from TRACES

Log in to the TRACES portal and download Form 16A for the relevant quarter.

4. Email All Documents to Google

Send an email to: tds.certificates@google.com

Attach:

• Form 16A
• Google Ads invoices
• Google Ads account/billing ID
• TDS + Invoice Summary (Excel recommended)
• Contact details (Phone & Email)

5. Google Reviews & Credits the Refund

After verification:

• Google will add the refund amount as ad credits
• You can use these credits for future advertising campaigns

Important Things to Remember

• Form 16A is compulsory for each claim.
• Submit TDS certificates every quarter.
• Google accepts TDS certificates from the current financial year only.
• The previous year's TDS documents must be submitted before May 31.
• Calculate TDS only on the taxable value, not on GST.
• TDS rate for Google Ads = 2%.

Eligibility: Who Can Claim a Google Ads TDS Refund?

You can claim a refund if:

• You are a Google Ads advertiser
• You have closed your Google Cloud Billing account
• You submit Form 16A for the correct quarter
• Your TDS matches Google's invoice values

Quarterly Submission Deadlines (Very Important)

Final Cutoff

• All TDS certificates for the previous FY must be submitted by May 31.
• Missing deadlines may result in refund rejection.

Where to Send Your TDS Documents?

Send all documents to: tds.certificates@google.com

Include:

• Form 16A
• Google Ads invoices
• Google Ads account number
• TDS summary (Excel format preferred)
• Contact details

How Will You Receive the Refund?

Google will credit the TDS amount to your Google Ads account as ad credits. These credits can be used to run future campaigns without additional payment.

Official Source

You can verify the information from Google's official help page: Taxes in your country - Google Ads Help: https://support.google.com/google-ads/answer/2375370?hl=en

Conclusion

Claiming a Google Ads TDS refund in India may seem complicated, but once you understand the steps, the process becomes simple. Just ensure that:

• You deposit TDS correctly
• File TDS returns with Google's PAN
• Download Form 16A
• Submit documents on time (every quarter)

Google will then verify your documents and credit the refund as ad credits, reducing your ad cost. By following this guide, Indian advertisers can easily get their TDS amount reimbursed and stay fully compliant with tax regulations.