GST Registration is mandatory for any business crossing the specified turnover threshold. This guide covers everything you need to know.
Who Needs GST Registration?
Mandatory Registration
- Turnover above ₹40L (goods — ₹20L for special category states)
- Turnover above ₹20L (services — ₹10L for special category states)
- Inter-state suppliers (any turnover)
- E-commerce sellers (Amazon, Flipkart)
- Casual taxable persons
- Non-resident taxable persons
Voluntary Registration
Many below-threshold businesses register voluntarily to:
- Claim Input Tax Credit
- Sell on marketplaces
- Appear credible to B2B buyers
- Issue tax invoices
Step-by-Step Process
1. Gather Documents
- PAN card of business
- Aadhaar of authorized signatory
- Business address proof
- Bank statement / cancelled cheque
- Photo of proprietor/partners/directors
- DSC (for companies/LLPs)
2. Register on GST Portal
Visit gst.gov.in and click "New Registration". Fill Part A with PAN, mobile, and email. OTP verification generates TRN (Temporary Reference Number).
3. Complete Part B
Use TRN to fill:
- Business details
- Promoter/partner details
- Authorized signatory
- Principal place of business
- Additional places of business
- Goods/services (HSN/SAC codes)
- Bank account
- State-specific information
4. Verification
Choose between:
- Aadhaar OTP authentication (fastest)
- EVC verification
- DSC (for companies)
5. Receive GSTIN
Within 3–5 working days, you receive your 15-digit GSTIN and certificate.
What Happens After GST Registration?
1. Issue GST Invoices — Print GSTIN on all invoices with proper format.
2. File Returns — Monthly GSTR-1 and GSTR-3B (or quarterly under QRMP).
3. Maintain Records — Sales, purchase, stock for 6 years.
4. E-way Bills — For inter-state goods movement above ₹50,000.
5. Annual Return — GSTR-9 by December 31 of next year.
Common Mistakes
- Selecting wrong HSN/SAC codes
- Entering incorrect bank details (delays refunds)
- Missing additional places of business
- Not linking Aadhaar (prevents OTP verification)
GST registration is the first step to operating a compliant Indian business. FilingLab completes the process in 3–5 days with our expert filing.