How to Get a GST Number in India: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide

What is GST and Why Do You Need a GST Number?

GST (Goods and Services Tax) is a comprehensive indirect tax levied on the supply of goods and services across India. A GST number, officially known as a GSTIN (Goods and Services Tax Identification Number), is a unique 15-digit identifier assigned to every registered business under the GST regime.

According to the official GST portal, you need GST registration if:

• Your business turnover exceeds ₹40 lakhs (₹20 lakhs for special category states)
• You engage in inter-state supply of goods
• You are an e-commerce operator or supplier
• You are required to pay tax under reverse charge (for imported services/goods or notified RCM supplies)
• You are a casual taxable person or non-resident taxable person

Types of GST Registration

There are several types of GST registration in India:

1. Regular Taxpayer: For most businesses exceeding the turnover threshold
2. Composition Scheme: For small businesses with turnover up to ₹1.5 crore (thresholds may differ by state and for services)
3. Casual Taxable Person: For seasonal businesses
4. Non-Resident Taxable Person: For foreign businesses supplying to India

Step-by-Step Process to Get GST Number

Step 1: Prepare Required Documents

You'll need:

• PAN card of the business/individual
• Aadhaar card of the proprietor/partners/directors
• Proof of business registration (if applicable)
• Bank account details
• Address proof for place of business
• Digital signature (for companies and LLPs)

Step 2: Online Application

Visit the GST portal and follow these steps:

1. Click on 'Services' > 'Registration' > 'New Registration'
2. Fill Part-A of Form GST REG-01 with basic details
3. You'll receive a Temporary Reference Number (TRN) via SMS and email
4. Using the TRN, complete Part-B of the form within 15 days
5. Upload all required documents

Step 3: Verification Process

After submission:

• The application is verified by GST officers
• You may receive a notice if additional information is required (Form GST REG-03)
• You'll need to respond within 7 working days (Form GST REG-04)

Step 4: Receive GSTIN

Upon successful verification:

• You'll receive your GSTIN via email and SMS
• The GST registration certificate (Form GST REG-06) will be available on the portal
• The entire process typically takes 3-7 working days

Post-Registration Requirements

After obtaining your GST number:

• Display your GSTIN on all invoices and business documents
• File regular GST returns (monthly/quarterly based on scheme)
• Maintain proper books of accounts
• Comply with e-invoicing requirements (mandatory for businesses with ₹5 crore+ turnover, ₹10 lakh for many small taxpayers from April 2025)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Based on data from the GST Council, these are frequent errors applicants make:

• Incorrect PAN details entered
• Wrong business classification selected
• Incomplete address details
• Uploading unclear documents
• Not verifying mobile and email before submission

Conclusion

Obtaining a GST number is a straightforward process when you have all the required documents and follow the steps correctly. With your GSTIN, you can legally conduct business across India and claim input tax credits. Remember to use professional invoice templates (like those from Invoicessy) that include your GSTIN for all business transactions.