How to Get GST Number in India?

A GST number is a unique number assigned to each registered taxpayer. However, many people wants to know how to get GST Number in India. This is because they want to grow their business. Getting a GST number is considered as an essential step for a business. This helps to run the business smoothly. Businesses can also get several benefits, such as Input Tax Credit. They can also access larger markets. In this blog, you will learn about the steps to get a GST number and more.

What is a GST number?

A GST number is defined as a unique 15-digit code. Every registered business gets this code under the GST system in India. It is also known as GSTIN. The full name of GSTIN is the Goods and Services Tax Identification Number. It can also be said as an official identification number for businesses. Businesses with this number can collect tax and claim Input Tax Credit (ITC). They can also follow tax regulations.

So, this number helps with:

a) Invoicing

b) Tax filing

c) Input Tax Credit (ITC) claiming

d) Other tax compliance within the system.

Who should have a GST number?

Every business or individual who has done their GST registration needs a GST number. A GST number is also called GSTIN that means Goods and Services Tax Identification Number.  

Listed below are the following entities:

a) Businesses Exceeding Turnover Threshold

b) Inter-State Suppliers

c) E-commerce Operators and Sellers of Goods via E-commerce (Service providers on e-commerce platforms can still use the Rs. 20 Lakh threshold).

d) Casual Taxable Persons

e) Non-Resident Taxable Persons

f) Agents of a Supplier

g) Input Service Distributors (ISD)

h) Persons that needs to deduct or collect Tax at Source

i) Persons Making Taxable Supplies

Documents Required for GST Number

Listed below are the key documents required for the GST Number:

a) PAN Card of the Applicant or business

b) Aadhaar Card of the applicant, proprietor, or authorized signatory.

c) Evidence of business registration or Incorporation certificate

d) Letter of Authorisation or Board Resolution for Authorised Signatory

e) Bank Account statement or Cancelled cheque

f) Identity and Address proof of Promoters or Director with Photographs

g) Digital Signature (DSC)

How to Get GST Number in India?

Below are the steps on how to get GST number:

Step 1: Access the GST Portal

Firstly, you must go to the official GST portal to get a GST number. This also helps you to check if a GST number exists.

Step 2: Initiate New Registration

This step allows you to click on the "Service" menu and select the "Registration option. You can get this option on the homepage. Next, you need to click on the "New Registration".

Step 3: Complete Part A of the Application

You need to fill out and complete Part A with the basic details. This is an initial application form. Here:

a) You must choose the "Taxpayer" option as a type of applicant.

b) Choose the state and district in which the business operates.

c) Enter the legal business name. This name will be on the PAN card.

d) Enter the PAN number of your business or a sole proprietor

e) Once you give the PAN number, submit a valid email address and mobile number. Next, you will get verification codes.

f) The portal will display the captcha code. Enter this to confirm you are not a robot.

Once all details are filled, click on the "proceed" button to continue.

Step 4: Verify OTP

You will get two One-Time Password (OTP). One on your email address and one on your registered mobile number. Enter the OTP to confirm your contact details. This will confirm the authenticity of your provided information.

Step 5: Get a Temporary Reference Number (TRN)

Once the OTP verification is completed, you will get a Temporary Reference Number (TRN). This number acts as a reference for completing the remaining registration steps. You can also save the TRN for future access.

Step 6: Complete Part B of the Application

You must choose the Temporary Reference Number (TRN) on the GST portal. You will find this option under "New Registration." After that, enter your saved TRN to verify again with an OTP to continue.

The application includes:

a) Details about the nature and activities of the business

b) Information about partners, owners, or promoters of the business

c) Identification of the authorized signatory

d) Address of the principal place in which the business operates.

e) Details of any additional business locations, if applicable

f) Description of goods and services of a business

g) While bank account details are required, you are no longer required to provide them at the time of initial registration. You must update your bank details on the portal within 30 days of getting your GSTIN or before filing your first return, whichever is earlier.

Step 7: Submit the Application

Once completed, you must finalize your submission.

You can do it by several methods:

a) Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) for Limited Liability Partnerships (LLPs) and registered companies.

b) E-signature. It is an online verification method for individuals and proprietors.

c) Electronic Verification Code (EVC). It is an OTP-based authentication for individuals.

So, you need to choose the correct verification mode.

Step 8: Receive Application Reference Number (ARN)

Once submitted, you will get an Application Reference Number (ARN). This number shows that your application is being processed. You can take this number to track the progress of your registration.

Step 9: Track Application Status

You need to revisit the GST portal to check the application status. Next, you need to visit the "Registration" option. Select the "Track Application Status" option. If you want to see the current status, enter the ARN and the captcha code. You can also check if a GST number is valid using the GST portal.

Conclusion

The GST number is a unique 15 digit code for registered business. So, it is a vital step to know how to get GST number in India. A GST number will support business growth and operations. Businesses can get this number from the official GST portal. This will avoid penalties, and other registration issues. Thus, GSTIN is essential for business credibility and assessing Input Tax Credit (ITC).

FAQ

Q1. Where can I get a GST number in India?

You can get your GST number from the official GST portal in India.

Q2. Is it important to know how to get GST number?

Yes, it is important to know how to get GST number.

Q3.  Is there a fee to get a GST number?

No, there is not a fee to get a GST number.

Q4. What is the key reason to know how to get GST number?

The key reason to know how to get a GST number is:

1. It helps to maintain legal compliance
2. Avoid heavy penalties
3. This allows vital financial benefits such as Input Tax Credit (ITC), and so on.

This number is compulsory for businesses with an annual turnover exceeding Rs. 40 lakh for goods (Rs. 20 lakh for services). However, in Special Category States like Manipur, Mizoram, Nagaland, and Tripura, the threshold is Rs. 10 lakh. This is also suitable for e-commerce sellers and inter-state suppliers.