Updated on July 08, 2025 05:54:38 PM
The Goods and Services Tax Identification Number (GSTIN) is a unique 15-digit code assigned to each business or person who has a GST registration in India. The GSTIN is your tax identity. It allows you to legally collect GST, add live returns, and claim input tax credits for GST you paid to others. Businesses, tax professionals, and consumers must understand how the GSTIN is structured and how to use the GSTIN structure for registration verification and compliance with the GST Act and rules.
The GST number doesn't just consist of random characters or letters, it follows a different format that provides useful information about the taxpayer. For example, the first two digits are the state code of the state in which the business is established.
The following 10 digits represent the Permanent Account Number (PAN) of the business or person. The 13th digit shows the number of registrations a person has (with the same PAN) in that state. The 14th digit currently is the default “Z” character, and the 15th digit is a check code that can be used to detect a mistake or error.
The GSTIN under discussion, for example, is 07ABCDE1234F1Z5. In this, “07” represents Delhi, “ABCDE1234F” is the Permanent Account Number or PAN, “1” depicts the number of registrations, “Z” denotes default, and "5" is the check digit. It is easy to identify and valid GSTIN structure as GSTINs are often used by suppliers, vendors, or clients.
GST Number, also known as Goods and Services Tax Identification Number (GSTIN), is a 15-digit unique registration number allotted to registered businesses and individuals registered under the Goods and Services Tax (GST) system in India. GSTIN is a tax identity for the business and it is mandatory to obtain a GST number if you are involved in supply of goods or services with an annual turnover above the limit defined in the GST law (for goods it is currently ₹40 lakh and ₹20 lakh in most of the states for services).
GSTIN is issued by the GST Department upon successful registration on the GST portal and thus empowers businesses to legally charge GST from customers, claim input tax credit, and file GST returns. The number enables tax authorities to monitor transactions and ensure transparency and compliance in the taxation system.
The Goods and Services Tax Identification Number (GSTIN) is an integral part of the GST system in India, assigned to every registered business or taxpayer. A GSTIN is a unique and distinct 15-character alphanumeric code forming the official tax identity under GST law. It is important to understand the format of a GST number to have a full understanding of compliance, as well as to verify the legitimacy of businesses, and therefore the correctness of their tax status.
The format of the GST number is intentional. Each character of the 15-character GSTIN provides us with useful information, like the state of registration, the taxpayer’s PAN (Permanent Account Number), and the total number of registrations a business may have in a state. Ultimately, this design and format are made so that all GST numbers are unique, traceable, and usable consistently throughout the country.
For example, in the case of this GSTIN:
GST on mobile phones involves a series of crucial steps for businesses in their dealings of manufacturing, selling, or distributing mobile devices. Here's an easy-to-understand explanation:
After submitting the OTP, you will get a Temporary Reference Number (TRN) which is used to complete Part B of the application.
Your ARN will be generated after your submission to track your application.
Once government officials verify your information, your GST number (GSTIN) is issued.
To get a GST number in India, you need to provide a few basic documents. Here’s a simple list to help you:
| Document Type | Required Documents |
|---|---|
| Personal ID Proof | PAN Card, Aadhaar Card, Photo, Voter ID / Driving License / Passport (any one) |
| Business Address Proof | Electricity Bill, Rent Agreement, Property Paper, NOC from Owner (if rented) |
| Business Proof | Partnership Deed / Incorporation Certificate / Shop Act License (based on business type) |
| Bank Details | Cancelled Cheque, Bank Statement, or First Page of Passbook |
| Digital Signature (DSC) | Required for LLPs and Companies (Class 2 or Class 3 DSC) |
GST registration in India is free of cost from the government. However, if you take help from professionals or need additional services like DSC, you may incur some charges.
| Fee Type | Details | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Government Fees | No government charges for GST registration | ₹0 |
| Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) | Required for companies/LLPs | ₹1,000 – ₹2,000 approx |
| PAN or Other Document Costs | If applied freshly for registration | Varies as per provider |
| Amendment Fees (if any) | If changes are made later by a professional | ₹300 – ₹1,000 approx |
Conclusion
The GST Number (GSTIN) is a critical business identifier for businesses operating in India under the Goods and Services Tax system. It provides transparency between the buyer and seller, legal compliance, and allows businesses to quickly and easily collect and remit GST taxes. Regardless of whether you are a small trader or a large business, obtaining a GST number is an integral part of operating smoothly as a business, claiming input tax credits, and developing trust with your customers and suppliers. The registration process is free, easy to navigate, and completed entirely online through the official Government of India GST portal.
At Professional Utilities, we leverage our industry knowledge and expertise to help businesses navigate complex regulations, minimize risks, and optimize operations for maximum efficiency and profitability.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
GST Number (GSTIN) is a 15-digit unique code issued to all businesses registered under the Goods and Services Tax in India.
No, businesses are only required to register under GST if turnover is above threshold limits (for example, 40 lakh for goods, 20 lakh for services in most of the states).
No, there are no fees to register for GST on the official GST portal. The only fees are if you are registering through a paid consultant outside of the GST portal.
Within 7 working days after you submit your application along with supporting documents, you will receive your GSTIN.
Yes, you can register for a number online at the official GST portal at www.gst.gov.in
Yes, you must have a valid PAN card to sign up as an applicant for GST registration. (Non-resident taxpayers have different requirements for registration.)
Yes, you can apply for more than 1 GST Number if you are conducting business in multiple states or if you have different business verticals.
If you are required to register for GST, and you do not, you could be liable for penalties, interest on unpaid tax, and legal action by tax authorities. Non-registration may also result in forfeiture of input tax credits and disruption to your ability to do business with GST-registered suppliers.
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