GST registration gives your business a GSTIN and lets you legally collect GST and claim input tax credit. Whether it is mandatory depends mainly on your turnover and the nature of your supplies.
This guide covers the thresholds, the cases where registration is compulsory regardless of turnover, and how to apply.
Turnover thresholds
Registration is generally required once aggregate turnover crosses the notified threshold. The common limits are higher for goods than for services, and lower for certain special-category states.
- Goods: registration typically required above ₹40 lakh aggregate turnover (₹20 lakh in some special-category states)
- Services: typically above ₹20 lakh (₹10 lakh in some special-category states)
- Always confirm the current threshold for your state and supply type
When registration is mandatory regardless of turnover
- Inter-state taxable supply of goods (with some exceptions)
- E-commerce operators and those supplying through them
- Casual taxable persons and non-resident taxable persons
- Persons liable to pay tax under reverse charge
- Input service distributors and agents supplying on behalf of others
Documents you need
- PAN of the business or proprietor
- Proof of business registration / constitution
- Identity and address proof of promoters / partners
- Address proof of the principal place of business
- Bank account details and a cancelled cheque or statement
- Digital signature (DSC) for companies and LLPs
How to apply
Registration is done online on the GST portal (gst.gov.in) in two parts: generate a Temporary Reference Number (TRN), then complete the full application with documents. After verification, the GSTIN is issued.
Keep your invoicing GST-ready from day one so the GSTIN, HSN, and tax split are correct on every bill once you are registered.
Key takeaways
- Thresholds: ~₹40L goods / ~₹20L services (lower in special-category states) — verify current limits.
- Some supplies (inter-state goods, e-commerce, RCM) require registration regardless of turnover.
- Keep PAN, business proof, address proof, and bank details ready.
- Apply online on the GST portal; a GSTIN is issued after verification.
This guide is general information, not tax advice. GST rules and rates can change with GST Council notifications — verify specifics on the official GST portal or with your CA.
Put this into practice with PocketGST
Create GST-compliant invoices offline, apply the right CGST/SGST or IGST split, and prepare GSTR-1/3B helper reports — no signup on the Free tier.
No signup on Free tier · Compare plans