About GST
GST stands for Goods and Services Tax, a value-added tax levied on most goods and services sold for domestic consumption. It is a comprehensive indirect tax in India, introduced on July 1st, 2017, replacing multiple cascading taxes levied by the central and state governments. GST is administered by the Central and State Governments in India, with input tax credit mechanism to avoid double taxation. It is a comprehensive, multi-stage, destination-based tax that is levied on every value addition. The tax replaces multiple indirect taxes levied by the central and state governments. The aim of GST is to simplify the tax structure and create a common market for goods and services within a country.
How GST is Calculated
GST is calculated as a percentage of the value of goods and services being sold. The exact percentage varies depending on the type of goods or services being sold and the country in which the sale is taking place.
The calculation of GST involves determining the taxable value of the goods or services being sold, which is typically the sale price excluding any taxes. Then, the applicable GST rate is applied to this taxable value to determine the amount of GST to be collected.
For example, if the taxable value of a product is Rs.100 and the GST rate is 18%, the amount of GST to be collected would be Rs.18 (18% of Rs.100). This amount would be added to the taxable value of the product to arrive at the final price including GST.
GST Number Search
A GST (Goods and Services Tax) number is a unique identification number assigned to businesses registered under the GST system. To search for a GST number, you can use the following methods:
- GST Portal: You can visit the official GST portal and use the GST Number Search facility to find a GST number by using the name or GSTIN (GST Identification Number) of the registered business.
- TRACES website: The TRACES (TDS-CPC) website is a government portal where you can verify the GSTIN of a business.
- GST Suvidha Provider (GSP): GST Suvidha Providers are authorized entities that offer GST compliance and filing services to businesses. You can contact a GSP to search for a GST number.
It’s important to note that the GST number of a business may not be publicly available if the business is not registered under the GST system. In such cases, you may need to directly contact the business for information on their GST number.
GST Online Payment
GST (Goods and Services Tax) online payment can be made through the official GST portal or through authorized intermediaries such as banks or GST Suvidha Providers (GSPs). The steps for making an online GST payment are as follows:
- Login to the GST Portal: Visit the official GST portal and login to your account using your GSTIN and password.
- Navigate to the Payment Section: Once you are logged in, navigate to the “Payments” section and select the appropriate tax head for the payment you wish to make (e.g. CGST, SGST, IGST, etc.).
- Fill in the Details: Fill in the required details such as the amount of tax to be paid, the tax period, etc. and select your preferred payment method (e.g. net banking, credit/debit card, etc.).
- Confirm the Payment: Review the details and confirm the payment. You will then be redirected to the payment gateway where you can complete the payment using your preferred payment method.
- Receipt Generation: Once the payment is successful, you will receive a receipt indicating the payment has been made. You can download and save this receipt for your records.
It’s important to keep in mind that the GST portal may be subject to downtime or maintenance, so it’s a good idea to plan ahead and make your payment well in advance of the due date to avoid any late payment penalties.
GST Verification Online
To verify a GST (Goods and Services Tax) number online, you can use the following methods:
- GST Portal: You can visit the official GST portal and use the GSTIN Verification facility to verify the validity of a GST number. You can enter the GSTIN of the business you wish to verify and the portal will provide you with the details of the registered business, including the name, address, and status of the GST registration.
- TRACES website: The TRACES (TDS-CPC) website is a government portal where you can verify the GSTIN of a business. You can enter the GSTIN of the business you wish to verify and the portal will provide you with the details of the registered business, including the name, address, and status of the GST registration.
- GST Suvidha Provider (GSP): GST Suvidha Providers are authorized entities that offer GST compliance and filing services to businesses. You can contact a GSP to verify the GST number of a business.
It’s important to note that the GST number of a business may not be publicly available if the business is not registered under the GST system. In such cases, you may need to directly contact the business for information on their GST number.
GST Registration Status Check:
To check the GST (Goods and Services Tax) registration status of a business, you can follow the steps below:
- Visit the GST Portal: Go to the official GST portal and click on the “Services” tab.
- Click on the “Registration” Option: From the drop-down menu, select the “Registration” option and then click on the “Track Application Status” link.
- Enter the Application Reference Number (ARN): Enter the Application Reference Number (ARN) that was generated when you applied for GST registration. You can also use the name and PAN (Permanent Account Number) of the business to search for the ARN.
- View the Status: The portal will display the current status of your GST registration application, such as “under process,” “approved,” or “rejected.”
- Download the Certificate: If your GST registration has been approved, you can download the GST registration certificate from the portal.
It’s important to note that the status of your GST registration application may take some time to update on the portal, so it’s a good idea to check back at a later time if you don’t see any changes immediately. If you continue to experience issues, you can contact the GST helpdesk for assistance.
Types of GST
There are three main types of GST (Goods and Services Tax) in India:
- CGST (Central GST): This type of GST is levied and collected by the central government on the supply of goods and services within a state.
- SGST (State GST): This type of GST is levied and collected by the state government on the supply of goods and services within a state.
- IGST (Integrated GST): This type of GST is levied and collected by the central government on the supply of goods and services between different states or imported into India from outside the country.
Together, CGST, SGST, and IGST form the GST system in India, which replaces the previous indirect tax system. The GST system is a single indirect tax that is applied uniformly across the country and is designed to simplify the tax structure and reduce the tax burden on businesses and consumers.
GST Suvidha Kendra
GST Suvidha Kendra is a term used to refer to the GST (Goods and Services Tax) Service Centers in India. These centers are authorized entities that offer GST compliance and filing services to businesses. They help businesses to comply with GST regulations, file GST returns, make GST payments, and perform other GST-related tasks.
Some of the services offered by GST Suvidha Kendras include:
- GST registration: Helping businesses to register for GST and obtain a GSTIN (GST Identification Number).
- GST return filing: Assisting businesses in preparing and filing GST returns, including monthly and annual returns.
- GST payment: Providing businesses with a platform to make GST payments online.
- GST compliance: Providing businesses with assistance in complying with GST regulations and ensuring that they are up-to-date with the latest GST laws and regulations.
GST Suvidha Kendras are authorized by the government and provide a convenient and cost-effective solution for businesses to comply with GST regulations. By using a GST Suvidha Kendra, businesses can save time and effort, and avoid the stress and confusion associated with GST compliance.
GST Returns Due Date
The due date for filing GST (Goods and Services Tax) returns in India depends on the type of GST return and the turnover of the business. Some of the common types of GST returns are:
- GSTR-1: This is a monthly return that businesses with a turnover of up to Rs. 1.5 crore must file. The due date for filing GSTR-1 is the 11th of the next month.
- GSTR-3B: This is a monthly summary return that all businesses must file, regardless of their turnover. The due date for filing GSTR-3B is the 20th of the next month.
- GSTR-2: This is a monthly return that businesses must file to report the details of their inward supplies. The due date for filing GSTR-2 is the 15th of the next month.
- GSTR-3: This is a monthly return that summarizes the details of inward and outward supplies, input tax credit, and tax liability. The due date for filing GSTR-3 is the 20th of the next month.
- Annual Return (GSTR-9): This is an annual return that all businesses must file, regardless of their turnover. The due date for filing GSTR-9 is December 31st of the next financial year.
It’s important to note that the due dates for filing GST returns may vary based on the type of return, the turnover of the business, and other factors. Businesses must stay up-to-date with the latest GST regulations and file their returns on time to avoid penalties and interest charges.
GST Audit Due Date
The due date for conducting a GST (Goods and Services Tax) Audit in India depends on the taxpayer’s GST turnover. Below are the due date for GST Audit:
- Taxpayers with a GST turnover of up to Rs 2 crore in the preceding financial year: There is no requirement to conduct a GST audit in this case.
- Taxpayers with a GST turnover of more than Rs 2 crore but less than Rs 5 crore in the preceding financial year: The due date for conducting a GST audit is December 31st of the next financial year.
- Taxpayers with a GST turnover of more than Rs 5 crore in the preceding financial year: The due date for conducting a GST audit is September 30th of the next financial year.
In case of a GST Audit, a GST auditor must be appointed, who will conduct the audit and issue a GST Audit Report. The taxpayer must then file the GST Audit Report along with the annual return (GSTR-9) by the due date.
GSTR-9C is a reconciliation statement that must be filed by taxpayers who are registered under the GST (Goods and Services Tax) in India and whose annual turnover exceeds Rs 2 crore in the preceding financial year.
The GSTR-9C is a declaration of reconciliation between the details of the GST returns filed by a taxpayer (GSTR-1, GSTR-2A, and GSTR-3B) and the financial statements (i.e. the balance sheet and profit and loss account) of the taxpayer. The GSTR-9C must be signed by a chartered accountant or a cost accountant and submitted along with the annual return (GSTR-9) by the due date.
The GSTR-9C is a crucial document as it helps the government to verify the accuracy of the GST returns filed by the taxpayer and to prevent tax evasion. The government may conduct a scrutiny of the GSTR-9C and if any discrepancies are found, the taxpayer may be penalized.
It’s important to note that the due date for filing the GSTR-9C may change, so it’s essential to stay up-to-date with the latest GST laws and regulations to ensure that the GSTR-9C is filed on time.
E-way Bill
E-way bill is an electronic way bill for movement of goods worth more than Rs 50,000 within India, under the GST (Goods and Services Tax) regime. The e-way bill system was introduced to ensure compliance with GST rules and to prevent tax evasion by monitoring the movement of goods.
An e-way bill must be generated by the person in charge of the transportation of goods, whether it be the consignor, consignee, or the transporter. The e-way bill must contain details such as the name and GSTIN of the consignor and consignee, the type and value of goods being transported, and the vehicle number used for transportation.
The e-way bill must be carried by the person in charge of the transportation of goods and must be presented to any GST inspector who requests it. The e-way bill is valid for a period of 1 day for distances up to 100 km and for a period of 15 days for distances exceeding 100 km.
E-way bills can be generated through the GSTN portal or through authorized intermediaries. It’s important to note that failure to generate an e-way bill or to carry a valid e-way bill during the transportation of goods may result in penalties.
The limit for generating an e-way bill under the GST (Goods and Services Tax) regime in India varies from state to state. In general, the limit for generating an e-way bill is Rs 50,000, regardless of the state in which the goods are being transported.
However, some states may have higher limits for generating an e-way bill based on their specific tax laws and regulations. For example, the state of Uttar Pradesh has a limit of Rs 5 lakh for generating an e-way bill, while the state of Tamil Nadu has a limit of Rs 10 lakh.
It’s important to check the e-way bill limits in the relevant state before transporting goods within India to ensure compliance with GST laws and to avoid any penalties. The e-way bill limits may change from time to time, so it’s essential to stay up-to-date with the latest GST laws and regulations.
GST Emsigner
GST e-Signer is a digital signature solution for Goods and Services Tax (GST) returns and forms in India. It allows taxpayers to electronically sign and submit GST returns and forms, eliminating the need for physical signatures and reducing the turnaround time for processing.
GST e-Signer is a secure and reliable solution that is authorized by the Goods and Services Tax Network (GSTN). It is designed to ensure the authenticity and integrity of electronic documents and transactions, making it easier for taxpayers to comply with GST regulations.
Using GST e-Signer, taxpayers can sign and submit GST returns and forms online, from anywhere and at any time, with just a few clicks. The digital signature is treated as equivalent to a physical signature, and it ensures the authenticity and integrity of the data being submitted.
GST e-Signer is easy to use and does not require any special technical knowledge. Taxpayers can use their existing digital signature certificates or obtain a new one through authorized certifying authorities. The solution helps taxpayers save time, reduce costs, and improve compliance with GST regulations.
GST Interest Calculator
A GST (Goods and Services Tax) interest calculator is a tool used to calculate the interest payable on late payment of GST. The interest rate for late payment of GST is 18% per annum.
To use a GST interest calculator, you will need to input the following information:
- The date on which the GST was payable
- The date on which the GST was paid
- The amount of GST payable
Based on this information, the GST interest calculator will calculate the interest payable on the late payment of GST. It takes into account the number of days for which the GST was overdue and applies the interest rate of 18% per annum.
GST interest calculators are readily available online and can be used for free. They are a useful tool for businesses and taxpayers to determine the amount of interest payable on late payment of GST and to ensure compliance with GST regulations.
Note: The calculation of GST interest is subject to change based on any updates or changes to the GST laws and regulations. It’s important to check the latest GST laws and regulations before using a GST interest calculator.
GST Late Fee Calculator
A GST (Goods and Services Tax) late fee calculator is a tool used to calculate the late fee payable for delayed filing of GST returns. The late fee for delayed filing of GST returns is INR 100 per day, up to a maximum of INR 5,000.
To use a GST late fee calculator, you will need to input the following information:
- Due date of the GST return
- Date on which the GST return was filed
Based on this information, the GST late fee calculator will calculate the late fee payable for delayed filing of the GST return. It takes into account the number of days for which the GST return was overdue and applies the late fee of INR 100 per day, up to a maximum of INR 5,000.
GST late fee calculators are readily available online and can be used for free. They are a useful tool for businesses and taxpayers to determine the amount of late fee payable for delayed filing of GST returns and to ensure compliance with GST regulations.
Note: The calculation of GST late fee is subject to change based on any updates or changes to the GST laws and regulations. It’s important to check the latest GST laws and regulations before using a GST late fee calculator.
GST Jurisdiction
GST (Goods and Services Tax) jurisdiction refers to the geographical area or location within which a particular GST authority has the power to administer, enforce and collect GST. GST jurisdiction is based on the place of supply of goods or services, which determines the tax liability and the GST authority responsible for collecting the tax.
In India, the GST jurisdiction is divided between the Central GST (CGST) and the State GST (SGST) authorities. The Central GST (CGST) is administered by the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC), while the State GST (SGST) is administered by the state tax departments.
The place of supply of goods or services determines the GST jurisdiction and the tax authority responsible for collecting the tax. For example, if the place of supply is within the same state, the tax is collected by the SGST authority, while if the place of supply is outside the state, the tax is collected by the CGST and the SGST authority of the recipient state.
GST jurisdiction is an important concept for businesses and taxpayers to understand in order to comply with GST regulations and ensure the proper payment and collection of GST.
How to Check GST Jurisdiction
To check the GST (Goods and Services Tax) jurisdiction in India, you can follow these steps:
- Visit the GST portal: Go to the official GST portal, https://www.gst.gov.in/
- Login to the portal: Login to the portal using your GST credentials. If you don’t have an account, you can register for one.
- Navigate to the “Services” section: After logging in, click on the “Services” tab on the top menu.
- Select “Registration” from the drop-down menu: From the drop-down menu, select the “Registration” option.
- Check the GSTIN: Your GST Identification Number (GSTIN) will be displayed on the registration page.
- Check the GST jurisdiction: The GST jurisdiction can be found by checking the first two digits of your GSTIN. The first two digits represent the state code, and the state tax department of the state code will have jurisdiction over your GST compliance.
For example, if your GSTIN is 22AAAA0000A1Z1, the first two digits “22” represent the state code for Chhattisgarh, so the Chhattisgarh state tax department will have jurisdiction over your GST compliance.
By checking the GST jurisdiction, you can determine which tax authority is responsible for administering, enforcing and collecting GST for your business or taxable supplies. This information is useful for ensuring compliance with GST regulations and for determining the proper payment and collection of GST.
GST Registration Status Check
To check the GST (Goods and Services Tax) status in India, you can follow these steps:
- Visit the GST portal: Go to the official GST portal, https://www.gst.gov.in/
- Login to the portal: Login to the portal using your GST credentials. If you don’t have an account, you can register for one.
- Navigate to the “Services” section: After logging in, click on the “Services” tab on the top menu.
- Select “Registration” from the drop-down menu: From the drop-down menu, select the “Registration” option.
- Check the GSTIN: Your GST Identification Number (GSTIN) will be displayed on the registration page.
- Check the status of your GST registration: The status of your GST registration can be found by clicking on the “View/Download certificate” button. The certificate will indicate if your GST registration is active or inactive.
You can also check the status of your GST returns by navigating to the “Returns Dashboard” section and checking the status of the returns you have filed.
By checking the GST status, you can ensure that your GST registration and returns are up-to-date and in compliance with GST regulations. This information is useful for ensuring that your business is in good standing with the GST authorities and for determining the proper payment and collection of GST.
GST Return Status Check
To check the status of your GST (Goods and Services Tax) return in India, you can follow these steps:
- Visit the GST portal: Go to the official GST portal, https://www.gst.gov.in/
- Login to the portal: Login to the portal using your GST credentials. If you don’t have an account, you can register for one.
- Navigate to the “Services” section: After logging in, click on the “Services” tab on the top menu.
- Select “Returns Dashboard” from the drop-down menu: From the drop-down menu, select the “Returns Dashboard” option.
- Check the status of your GST returns: The status of the GST returns you have filed will be displayed on the Returns Dashboard page. You can check the status of each return by selecting the return form and period for which the return was filed.
The status of your GST return can indicate if the return has been filed, is being processed, has been rejected, or has been accepted. If the return has been accepted, it means that the GST authorities have accepted the return and that you have fulfilled your GST compliance obligations for the period covered by the return.
By checking the status of your GST returns, you can ensure that your GST compliance is up-to-date and in compliance with GST regulations. This information is useful for ensuring that your business is in good standing with the GST authorities and for determining the proper payment and collection of GST.