GST Registration
Since its introduction on 1 July 2017, the Goods & Services Tax (GST) has been mandatory for all service providers, traders, manufacturers, and even freelancers in India. The GST system was implemented to replace Central and state-level taxes such as Service Tax, Excise Duty, CST, Entertainment Tax, Luxury Tax, and VAT, making the tax process more streamlined. The GST registration charges vary depending on the type of business and turnover.
For those taxpayers whose annual turnover is less than 1.5 crore, the GST framework provides an option for a composition scheme. This scheme allows them to undergo simplified GST procedures and pay taxes at a predetermined rate according to their turnover.
The GST mechanism operates throughout various stages of the supply chain. This includes acquiring raw materials, production, wholesale, retail, and the eventual sale to the end consumer. Notably, GST is imposed at every one of these steps. For example, when a product is produced in West Bengal and then used in Uttar Pradesh, the GST revenue generated is allocated entirely to Uttar Pradesh, emphasizing the consumption-based nature of GST.
Key Components of GST Registration
Central Goods and Services Tax (CGST): This tax is levied by the Central Government on the supply of goods and services within a particular state. CGST applies to transactions carried out entirely within the boundaries of one state.
State Goods and Services Tax (SGST): SGST is charged by the State Government on the supply of goods and services within its jurisdiction. Similar to CGST, SGST is also limited to transactions happening within a specific state.
Integrated Goods and Services Tax (IGST): This tax is imposed by the Central Government on the supply of goods and services that occur between different states or between a state and a Union Territory. IGST is relevant for transactions where goods or services cross state or Union Territory boundaries.
Who is required to register for GST?
GST registration is essential for the following persons:
Business Entities: Any enterprise with an aggregate annual turnover exceeding Rs. 40 lakhs. For special category states under GST, the threshold is Rs. 20 lakhs.
Service Providers: Those with an aggregate annual turnover surpassing Rs. 20 lakhs. For special category states, this limit is Rs. 10 lakhs.
Exemptions: It’s important to note that entities dealing exclusively in GST-exempted goods or services are not bound by these thresholds.
Previously Registered Entities: Entities that were registered under older tax frameworks (like Excise, VAT, Service Tax, etc.) need to migrate and register under the GST regime.
Inter-State Suppliers: Any entity or individual involved in the supply of goods across state boundaries.
Casual Taxable Entities: Those who undertake taxable supply occasionally.
Entities under Reverse Charge Mechanism: Businesses obligated to pay tax under the reverse charge.
Input Service Distributors & Agents: Distributors of input services, including their representatives.
E-Commerce Platforms: Operators or aggregators of e-commerce platforms
Non-Resident Taxable Entities: Individuals or entities that are non-resident but engage in taxable supply within India.
Supplier’s Agents: Representatives who supply on behalf of a principal supplier.
E-Commerce Suppliers: Individuals or entities that offer goods or services through an e-commerce aggregator.
Online Service Providers: Entities delivering online information, database access, or retrieval services from outside India to an individual in India, excluding those already registered under GST.
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