GST Number (GSTIN) Example, Format, and How to Get it Online
- PRITI SIRDESHMUKH
- Nov 12
- 11 min read
Prior to the implementation of the Goods & Services Tax (GST), all business owners and dealers were required to register under VAT. In their sphere of influence, state laws were in charge. As a result, each of them was given a TIN by the authorities in charge of collecting state-level taxes. The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) assigns a comparable registration number to service providers. But since the GST was put into place, all taxpayers have been placed on the same administrative platform. For a taxpayer, it is important to understand the GSTIN number format, its overall importance, and the process to get it online.
Table of Contents
What is the GST Number (GSTIN)?
Prior to the introduction of GST, the state tax authorities assigned a distinct TIN number to each dealer registered under the state VAT statute. In a similar vein, the CBIC issued service tax registration numbers to service providers. For administrative and regulatory reasons, all registered taxpayers are combined onto a single platform under the GST regime. A distinct Goods and Services Tax Identification Number, or GSTIN, is given to each company that operates in a state or union territory.
Why is GSTIN Required?
If your annual sales surpass a certain threshold, you must obtain a GSTIN in order to lawfully conduct business in India. You can avoid fines and penalties by registering for GST and obtaining a GSTIN.
GST Return Filing: Filing GST returns, which are recurring summaries of your company's transactions and tax obligations, requires a GST number. Even if there is no economic activity or tax liability during the period, all GST-registered businesses are required to file returns.
Making an Input Tax Credit Claim: To claim the input tax credit, which enables you to deduct the GST paid on business purchases, you must have a GST number. Only if the supplier has posted the invoice details to the GST system and included your GST number on the invoice can you make this claim.
Preventing Penalties: You can avoid fines for breaking the GST Act by using a GST number. A penalty of 10% of the tax owed or Rs. 10,000, whichever is higher, may be imposed for failing to register when necessary. Additionally, there may be a 100% penalty on the tax amount if GST is collected but not sent to the government.
Benefits of Getting GSTIN
GSTIN is essential for companies in a number of ways, including:
Adherence to GST laws and regulations is essential. Penalties of Rs 10,000 or the amount of tax owed, whichever is higher, may be imposed if unregistered.
Reduces overall tax obligation and improves cash flow by allowing businesses to claim credit for GST paid on purchases.
Enables smooth transportation of products and services between states without requiring separate state registrations.
Increased credibility creates credibility and fosters confidence among stakeholders, suppliers, and consumers.
Needed for government tenders, contracts, and e-commerce platform registration.
Through methodical tracking, this lowers the danger of tax avoidance and permits accurate billing.
Because GST compliance increases financial credibility, a registered business frequently has easier access to loans and credit facilities.
GSTIN Format
Every taxpayer is assigned a 15-digit PAN-based Goods and Services Tax Identification Number (GSTIN) based on their state. The GSTIN number format is provided below:
According to the 2011 Indian Census, the state code is displayed in the first two digits. Each state has its own code. For instance, the GSTIN will begin with the state code if Delhi's state code is 07 and Karnataka's is 29.
The taxpayer's PAN number will be the next 10 digits.
The number of registrations within a state determines the assignment of the thirteenth digit.
By default, the fourteenth digit is "Z."
The cheque code is represented by the final digit. It could be a number or an alphabet.
GSTIN Example
Consider the following as an example of the GSTIN format. The GSTIN is 07ABCDE1234F2Z5. Here are the details:
The state code 07 is for a business registered in Delhi.
The PAN number is ABCDE1234F.
The thirteenth digit, ‘2’, represents the number of registrations done by the business within the same state with the same PAN number.
The fourteenth digit is ‘Z’.
The fifteenth digit is 5, which is a check code and can be a number or an alphabet.
Steps to Get GSTIN Number
In India, obtaining a Goods and Services Tax Identification Number (GSTIN) is a straightforward procedure.
Steps to Get GSTIN Online through the GST Portal
Here's how to apply for a GSTIN online step-by-step:
Step 1: Open the GST Portal and log in.
Part A and Part B comprise the two sections of the application form.
Step 2: The New Registration page appears in Part A of the Registration Application. Choose "New Registration."
Step 3: Choose the Taxpayer as the sort of taxpayer to be registered in the I am a drop-down list.
Step 4: Choose the state and district for which registration is necessary from the State/UT and District drop-down list.
Step 5: Enter the legal name of your company or entity as it appears in the PAN database in the Legal Name of the Business (As stated in PAN) area.
Step 6: Enter your company's or the proprietor's PAN in the Permanent Account Number (PAN) area.
Step 7: Enter the Primary Authorised Signatory's email address in the Email Address section.
Step 8: Enter the Primary Authorised Signatory's current Indian mobile number in the Mobile Number column. For authentication, a separate One Time Password (OTP) will be given to the email address and mobile number you provided.
Step 9: Enter the captcha text in the "Type the characters you see in the image below" section, then click "PROCEED."
Step 10: The GST Portal shows all of the GSTINs, Provisional IDs, UINs, and GSTP IDs that are linked to the same PAN throughout India when you select "Proceed." Press the PROCEED button. To obtain the current registration details in PDF format, click the obtain button.
The following colour code has been used to denote various ARN statuses:
Green: The approved registration application is represented by the colour green.
Red: The Rejected Registration Application is represented by the colour red.
Orange: The colour orange indicates that the order registration application is pending processing.
Step 11: The page for OTP Verification appears. Enter the OTP that was sent to your cell number in the cell OTP field. OTP is only good for ten minutes.
Step 12: Enter the OTP that was sent to your email address in the Email OTP area. OTP is only good for ten minutes. Email addresses and phone numbers receive various OTPs. If the OTP is invalid, try again by clicking the "Click here to resend the OTP" link. The OTP will be sent to your registered email address or mobile number once more. Enter both of the just obtained OTPs once more.
Step 13: Press the PROCEED button.
Step 14: The Temporary Reference Number (TRN) produced by the system is shown. Press the PROCEED button. The TRN acknowledgement details will be sent to both your mobile number and email address. To log in using the Temporary Reference Number (TRN), you may also click Services > Registration > New Registration and choose the TRN radio button.
Section B of the Registration Application:
Step 15: Click the PROCEED button after entering the created Temporary Reference Number (TRN) and the captcha text as displayed on the screen.
Step 16: The Verify OTP page appears. The identical OTP will be sent to you via email and mobile. The OTPs you were given in the previous stage are not the same as these.
Step 17: Enter the OTP that was sent to your email address and phone number in the phone/Email OTP section. OTP is only good for ten minutes. The OTP sent to the email address and mobile number is identical. Click the Need OTP to be resent> Click here link to try again if the OTP is invalid. The OTP will be sent to your registered email address or mobile number once more. Enter the newly obtained OTP once more.
Step 18: Press the PROCEED button.
Step 19: The page titled "My Saved Application" appears. Click the Edit icon (blue square with white pen) in the Action column. Take note of the expiration date displayed in the screenshot below. The TRN and all of the data entered against it will be deleted after 15 days if the applicant does not submit the application. The registration application is in "Draft" status until it is submitted. The status of the application is changed to "Pending for Validation" after it is submitted.
Step 20: It displays the Registration Application form with many tabs. Ten tabs, including Business Details, Promoter/Partners, Authorised Signatory, Authorised Representative, Principal Place of Business, Additional Places of Business, Goods and Services, State-Specific Information, and Aadhaar Authentication and Verification, are located at the top of the page. To enter the information, click each tab.
Steps to Get GSTIN Offline
Visit GST Seva Kendra, a government facility that assists with GST procedures like registration, filing, payment, and refund, if you are unable to apply for a GSTIN online. Locate one under Contact Us on the GST Portal. Send the application form and supporting documentation to the GST officer. Your documents and information will be verified by the GST officer before being uploaded to the GST Portal. You will receive an acknowledgement slip with the ARN from the GST officer. To monitor the progress of your application, use the ARN.
Documents Required for GSTIN
To guarantee a seamless application process, you must provide a set of information and supporting documentation when applying for a GSTIN. Important prerequisites consist of:
PAN Card: PAN Card is used to confirm the owner's and the company's identities.
Business Registration Details: A partnership deed, incorporation certificate, or other comparable business formation document serves as proof of business registration.
Identity Proof: The owner's or authorised signatory's passport, voter ID, or Aadhaar card.
Address Proof: To verify the business address, use utility bills, rental agreements, or property tax receipts.
Details of the Bank Account: To confirm bank account details, use a cancelled check or bank statement.
Mobile Number and Mail ID: During the registration procedure, a working phone number and email address are required for communication and OTP-based authentication.
Photos: Current passport-sized pictures of the owner or designated signatory.
Jurisdiction Details: Details about the state code and applicable local jurisdiction that the business is operating under.
Digital Signature Certificate (where applicable): It is necessary for businesses and LLPs to provide digital form submission and verification.
Steps to Verify a GSTIN
A business should typically check its GSTIN while processing and reconciling invoices, when making an ITC claim, before completing new vendor contracts, and for the purpose of a compliance audit. Convenient features on the GST portal enable users to get taxpayer information quickly by searching by PAN or GSTIN. To stop fraud and guarantee legal business transactions, the GSTIN's legitimacy is crucial. You can check the following information while confirming a company's GSTIN details on the GST portal:
The invoice data matches the business name.
"Active" is the registration status displayed.
The address matches the real location of the business.
The sort of taxpayer (regular or composition scheme, for example)
Regularity in submitting returns
Difference Between GSTIN and GSTN
Businesses registered under the Goods and Services Tax are uniquely identified by their GSTIN (Goods and Services Tax Identification Number). However, the organisation in charge of overseeing the GST portal's whole IT infrastructure is the Goods and Services Tax Network (GSTN) portal. In order to ensure seamless operations under the GST system, the Government of India uses this portal to monitor all financial activities and offer taxpayer services like registration, tax filing, and tax record maintenance. The only identification number for enterprises is the GSTN (goods and services tax number), which has superseded state VAT regulations. In addition to offering legal recognition, it fosters confidence among clients and business associates. Businesses can comply with tax rules and file their GST returns with the use of a GSTIN.
Conclusion
All state VAT legislation and distinct TIN numbers have been superseded by GSTIN as the business's unique identification number. It serves as the company's legal recognition and fosters confidence with clients and business associates. Anyone having a GSTIN can simply use the GST portal, enter their information to receive advantages, and claim input credit for goods and services. As a result, GSTIN facilitates better tax compliance for companies and streamlines the process entirely online, leading to transparent transactions and expanding commercial opportunities.
FAQs
Q1. What does GSTN mean?
The IT infrastructure and organisation that oversees the entire GST portal system is called GSTN, or Goods and Services Tax Network. It differs from GSTIN in that GSTN is the technology platform that makes GST operations easier, whereas GSTIN is your business identification number.
Q2. Is GST a 15-digit number in India?
Yes, in India, the GSTIN is a 15-digit alphanumeric code. State code (2 digits), PAN (10 digits), entity code (1 digit), default alphabet (1 digit), and checksum (1 digit) comprise the format.
Q3. Can an individual have more than one GSTIN?
It is possible for a company or individual to have more than one GSTIN under the same PAN.
Q4. Is GSTIN mandatory for all businesses?
Businesses that surpass sales thresholds (Rs 40 lakhs for commodities and Rs 20 lakhs for services in normal states), interstate suppliers, e-commerce operators, and certain categories, including casual taxable individuals, are required to obtain a GSTIN. Smaller companies can choose to voluntarily register in order to receive benefits, nevertheless.
Q5. How to find your GSTIN number?
There are various ways to find your GSTIN. It can be found on GST-compliant invoices, prior GST returns, and the GST registration certificate. The GST portal's search by PAN tool is another way to look for it.
Q6. How to get GSTIN online?
By providing the necessary information and supporting documentation on the official GST portal, you can apply for GST registration and receive your GSTIN. The entire procedure is computerised, guaranteeing a seamless, paperless experience.
Q7. How to activate the GSTIN number?
Your GSTIN is instantly activated and active upon approval of your GST registration. Without further manual activation, all you have to do is begin using it for submitting taxes and compliance.
Q8. What is the cost of obtaining a GSTIN number?
Obtaining a GST registration number, or GSTIN, and registering for GST are both free.
Q9. Are GST and PAN numbers the same?
PAN and GST numbers are not interchangeable. In addition to the state code, entity code, and checksum digit, the GST number is derived from the business's PAN number. The Income Tax Department issues PAN numbers, which are 10-digit alphanumeric numbers used to identify taxpayers.
Q10. How can I amend or update details in my GSTIN?
Enter your login information to access the GST portal. Next, select Services > Registration > Amend Registration (Core or Non-Core fields) according to the modifications you want to make. Fill out the form with the updated information, then submit it. The modifications will be updated against your GSTIN once they have been accepted by the authorities.
Q11. What happens if I use an incorrect or inactive GSTIN?
When a GSTIN is used incorrectly or is inactive, it can cause problems with compliance and result in the rejection of claims or invoices. To prevent inconsistencies and associated fines, it is crucial to confirm the GSTIN information on the GST system.
Q12. When can a GSTIN be cancelled or suspended?
If a registered business does not file returns for a predetermined amount of time or does not comply with GST requirements, the GSTIN may be suspended or revoked. If there is fraudulent activity or inconsistencies in the information given, it may also be suspended.
Q13. What to do if my GSTIN is blocked?
You should get in touch with your tax expert or the GST helpdesk right away if your GSTIN is blocked in order to find out why and start the resolution process. Your GSTIN status can be restored and any problems can be resolved with prompt action.
Q14. How do I file a complaint regarding a forged GSTIN?
On the GST Grievance Redressal Portal, you can report a fake GSTIN. To file your complaint and give the information required for additional inquiry, just follow the instructions on the GST portal or other approved websites.
Q15. Is it compulsory to pay GST?
You must pay GST if you are registered under GST and provide taxable products or services. Adhering to this condition guarantees that your company complies with GST requirements.
Q16. What should I do once I've obtained my GSTIN?
To stay in compliance with GST requirements, you must create GST-compliant invoices on time, submit regular GST returns, and pay any GST that is due by the deadlines.
Q17. How does GSTIN relate to Input Tax Credit (ITC)?
Your GSTIN is an essential identification that connects your business activities to the correct Input Tax Credit (ITC) claim. To guarantee that ITC claims are legitimate and appropriately documented in your GST returns, accurate and current GSTIN information is crucial.
