Wondering how to get the GST number? Learn the simple steps to the GST registration process and secure your GST number today
The Goods and Services Tax (GST) is an all-encompassing indirect tax levied on the supply of goods and services throughout India. It was implemented in India on July 1, 2017, replacing several indirect taxes that were previously applicable at both the central and state levels. The businesses registered under the GST regime collect taxes from their customers and remit the collected GST to the government, creating a unified and streamlined tax structure.
One crucial aspect of operating within this GST regime is acquiring a GST number. How to get the GST number though, you wonder?
The Goods and Services Tax Number, or the Goods and Services Tax Identification Number (GSTIN), is a unique 15-digit alphanumeric code assigned to businesses registered under India’s GST system. It’s a unique ID card for businesses registered within the GST framework.
Here’s a breakdown of what the GST number comprises:
Next up: obtaining a GST number, which begins with the GST registration process.
GST registration is the process through which businesses in India enrol under the Goods and Services Tax (GST) system. It’s a mandatory procedure for businesses that meet the authority’s turnover threshold or fall within specific categories specified by the GST law. There are different types of GST registration depending on the nature and turnover of the business. Some of the types of GST registration are:
Normal taxpayer registration is the most common type of GST registration for businesses with turnover exceeding Rs. 40 lakhs for goods and Rs. 20 lakhs for services. An average taxpayer is not required to pay any deposit and has no expiration date for paying the taxes.
The casual taxable person registration is one of the types of GST registration applicable for people who occasionally supply taxable goods or services. Individuals who set up a seasonal shop or stall are the ones who choose this registration category. The GST registration under this category is valid for 90 days or the duration of the supply period, whichever ends earlier.
The composition scheme of GST registration is for small businesses whose turnover is under Rs. 1.5 crore for goods and Rs. 50 lakhs for services. Under this scheme, the taxpayer has to pay GST at a fixed rate on turnover, and compliance is also less than normal registration. However, the input tax credit cannot be obtained under this category.
The non-resident taxable person registration for people residing outside India but supplying goods or services in India. The GST registration under this category is applicable for 90 days or the supply period duration, whichever ends earlier. However, it can be extended or renewed at the time of expiry.
These were some of the most common types of GST registration. There are a few more types that can be checked out here.
Before starting with the GST registration process, certain documents are needed. Here is the list of documents required for GST registration:
Check out the document advisor on the official website for more clarity on the documents required for GST registration.
Before acquiring a GST number, now you have to complete the online GST registration process.
To start the online GST registration process, follow the given steps:
A success message will appear once the online GST registration process is completed. The
Application Reference Number (ARN) and an acknowledgment will be sent to the registered phone number and email address.
The GST number is automatically generated and assigned to your business upon completing the online GST registration process. You can check the validity of the GST number if you have doubts by following these steps:
The website will display an error if the entered GST number is invalid.
Registering under the GST scheme and obtaining the GST number has several benefits: