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GST Registration - The Beginners guide

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- The Beginners guide

GST Registration - The Beginners Guide

In India, GST (Goods and Services Tax) registration is mandatory for businesses or individuals who supply goods or services, provided their aggregate turnover exceeds a certain threshold. Understanding the eligibility criteria and steps involved in registering for GST is essential for business owners, especially those venturing into e-commerce platforms like Amazon and Flipkart.

In this guide, we will walk you through the eligibility criteria and a step-by-step process for online GST registration.


Eligibility Criteria for GST Registration

Before proceeding with GST registration, it’s essential to understand the eligibility criteria. Here are the key points:

  1. Aggregate Turnover

    • Service Providers: If your annual revenue exceeds ₹20 lakh, GST registration is mandatory.
    • Goods Suppliers: If your annual turnover exceeds ₹40 lakh, you must register for GST.
  2. Business Between States

    • Any business engaged in the supply of goods interstate (across state borders) must register for GST, regardless of turnover.
    • For interstate service providers, registration is mandatory if their annual revenue exceeds ₹20 lakh.
    • Special category states have a reduced turnover threshold of ₹10 lakh.
  3. Online Store Platforms

    • Individuals or businesses selling goods or services through online platforms (e.g., Amazon, Flipkart) must register for GST, irrespective of their turnover.
    • This is important for e-commerce vendors who wish to start selling online.
  4. Casual Taxable Individuals

    • Businesses that operate temporarily, such as those with seasonal or occasional shops, must register for GST, regardless of their turnover.

Step-by-Step Guide to Online GST Registration

The Ministry of Finance (MoF) has simplified the GST registration process, making it more accessible online through the official GST Portal. Here is a step-by-step breakdown:

Step 1: Create GST Application Form

To begin the registration process, you first need to get a Temporary Registration Number (TRN). Follow these steps:

  • Visit the GST Portal: https://www.gst.gov.in/
  • Click on Services > Registration > New Registration.
  • Enter your PAN, email address, and mobile number. Ensure these are correct as they will be used for OTP verification.
  • Click Proceed and verify both your email and mobile number via OTPs (valid for 10 minutes). After successful verification, you will receive your Temporary Reference Number (TRN).

Step 2: Fill Out GST Application Form

After receiving the TRN, log in and begin filling out your application:

  • Log into the GST Portal using your TRN and the captcha.
  • You’ll be redirected to the My Saved Application page where you have 15 days to complete your application.

The application form is divided into 10 tabs. Here are some required details:

  • Business Details: Nature of business, business name, PAN, etc.
  • Promoters/Partners: Information of business owners.
  • Authorized Signatory: The person who will be responsible for GST-related activities.
  • Bank Account Details: Bank statement or passbook showing account information.
  • Place of Business: Proof of business address (e.g., rent agreement or electricity bill).

Remember, some documents will need to be uploaded in scanned form, such as:

  • Business Constitution: Partnership deed, registration certificate, etc.
  • Proof of Principal Place of Business: Address proof (e.g., utility bills, rent agreement).
  • Authorized Signatory Details: Proof of appointment (e.g., board resolution for a company).

Step 3: Digital Signature Registration (DSC)

Certain entities like LLPs and Companies must digitally sign the GST form to verify their application. Here’s how to do it:

  • Install DSC Software: Make sure your machine has the necessary Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) software.
  • Use Emsigner: You must download and install Emsigner to electronically sign the form on the GST Portal.

For other businesses, you can opt for E-signature or EVC verification methods.

Step 4: Verify and Submit Your Application

Once the form is filled and signed, you can proceed to submit your GST application:

  • Choose a Verification Method:

    • DSC: For companies/LLPs.
    • E-signature: For individuals or partnerships.
    • EVC (Electronic Verification Code): Alternative method using OTP.

After submission, you will receive an Application Reference Number (ARN) via email and SMS. This ARN will help you track the status of your application.

Tip: You can check the application status by navigating to Services > Registration > Track Application on the GST portal.

Once approved, you will receive your GST Identification Number (GSTIN), along with a temporary username and password. Use these to log into the portal.

Step 5: Download GST Registration Certificate

  • Once your application is approved and the GSTIN is generated, you can log in using your username and password to access your GST Dashboard.
  • Navigate to Services > User Services > View or Download Certificates and click on Download.

Conclusion

GST registration is an essential step for businesses in India to ensure compliance with tax laws. By following this guide, you can easily complete the registration process and enjoy the benefits of seamless tax filing and eligibility for various government schemes.

For e-commerce sellers, Amazon, Flipkart, and other online platforms require GST registration to start selling, making this an important step for any aspiring digital entrepreneur.

If you need help with GST registration, Dhanaay can guide you through the process. Get in touch with us for professional assistance and advice.

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