SOFTEX or EDF: which one do software exporters file?
Last reviewed
Software exporters have two forms in their vocabulary: SOFTEX and the EDF. Most freelancers and small IT shops only ever deal with the EDF. Here is how to tell which applies to you.
What is SOFTEX?
SOFTEX is the form that software units registered with STPI (Software Technology Parks of India) or located in an SEZ (Special Economic Zone) have used to declare their software exports. It is certified through STPI or the SEZ, not filed directly by a freelancer with their bank.
What is the EDF?
The EDF, or Export Declaration Form, is the monthly declaration every exporter of services files with their AD bank from October 2026. An AD bank (Authorised Dealer bank) is a bank RBI allows to handle foreign exchange; for you, it is the bank that receives your foreign currency. One EDF covers a whole month of invoices.
Who files which
| You are | What you file |
|---|---|
| A software unit registered with STPI | Has used SOFTEX for its software exports. Ask STPI or your AD bank how to declare exports from October 2026. |
| A software unit in an SEZ | Has used SOFTEX through the SEZ. Ask the SEZ office or your AD bank how to declare exports from October 2026. |
| A freelancer, agency or IT company outside STPI and SEZ | Files the monthly EDF with its AD bank. SOFTEX was never its route. |
| Any exporter of non-software services | Files the monthly EDF with its AD bank, whatever the service. |
STPI registration is something a business applies for; it is not automatic. If you never applied, and you do not work from an SEZ, you are not a SOFTEX filer.
The P0802 note
A purpose code tells the bank what kind of service you exported. Software consultancy and implementation uses P0802. HDFC's own description of it reads: "Software consultancy/implementation (other than those covered in SOFTEX form)".
In plain words: P0802 is the code for software work that is not on a SOFTEX form. If you file an EDF for software services, P0802 is usually the code. If your branch suggests another, follow the branch.
What EDF Filing covers
EDF Filing makes the monthly EDF for exporters of services. It does not handle SOFTEX filings, SEZ units or goods exports. If you still have SOFTEX filings pending, ask STPI or your AD bank how to complete them.
Common questions
What is SOFTEX?
SOFTEX is the form that software units registered with STPI (Software Technology Parks of India) or located in an SEZ (Special Economic Zone) have used to declare software exports, certified through STPI or the SEZ.
I am a developer or an IT shop, not an STPI or SEZ unit. Which do I file?
The monthly EDF with your AD bank, the bank that receives your foreign currency. The SOFTEX route was never yours.
I am an STPI or SEZ unit. Do I still file SOFTEX?
Ask STPI or your AD bank how your software exports are to be declared from October 2026. This page and EDF Filing do not cover the SOFTEX process.
Which purpose code do software services use on the EDF?
Usually P0802. HDFC describes it as "Software consultancy/implementation (other than those covered in SOFTEX form)", so it is the code for software work that is not on a SOFTEX form.
EDF Filing is a document generator; you remain the declarant. Nothing here is legal or tax advice.
Make this month's EDF from your invoices in a few minutes.
Generate my first EDF freeRelated questions
- Does the EDF apply to me? Who files the monthly EDF from October 2026: individuals, proprietors, LLPs, companies and agencies, and what RBI said on 7 October 2026.
- EDF for HDFC Bank customers: the format and where to send it HDFC Bank's EDF for services: the request letter cum EDF, the annexure, the cover letter, where to send them, and a submission checklist.
Does this apply to me?
Get the EDF due date by email
Not ready to sign up? We email you on the 20th of every month with the due date for last month's invoices and what to gather. No account needed.
One mail a month with the due date. Unsubscribe with one click.
Your details are encrypted and stored in India.