How to get GST number?
This is one of the most common questions How to get GST number? people ask—maybe even you’ve wondered whether you actually need a GST number and how to apply for it. Don’t worry! In this article, I’ll explain briefly and clearly how to get a GST number step by step.
And if you’re interested in topics like the latest GST updates, why GST rates were reduced, who is liable to pay GST, or the GST 2.0 product list, I’ve already written separate detailed articles on those. Do check them out when you get time.
What is GST number?
GST number stands for Goods and Services Tax Identification Number (GSTIN).
A GST number is a 15-digit alphanumeric code that combines both alphabets and numbers. A GST number is only issued to registered businesses. It serves as an identification that the business is registered with the government’s GST system.
For example, a GST number looks something like 09ABCDE1234F1Z5. The first 2 digits are the state code; every state has a different code. For Uttar Pradesh, it is 09. The next 10 digits are the PAN card number of the person whose business it is. The 13th digit is the registration number (if multiple GST numbers are registered on a single PAN card). The 14th digit is the default Z. As I have shown you the GST number for your example. Lastly, the 15th digit is the check code, which is for verification from the system.
Why it is mandatory for businesses in India
There are many benefits of registering a GST number, like you get recognition, your business gets registered in the eyes of the government, and you get the right to collect tax, through which you can collect GST from the customers. This is legal only for those who have a GST number.
Input tax credit is available; it becomes easier to work with clients. If the turnover is more than the limit, then the registration number is required.
If your business is related to goods and the turnover is more than Rs 40 lakh, then in this situation a GST number becomes mandatory, or if it is related to service and the turnover is more than Rs 20 lakh, then it is mandatory to have a GST number.
If your business is growing, or you need input credit, or you want to work legally, then it is necessary to obtain a GST number.
Who Should Apply for a GST Number?
If your business is goods-related and your turnover is more than 40 lakh rupees, you must have GST registration. Similarly, if your business is service-related and your turnover is more than 10 lakh rupees, GST registration is also required. However, this limit varies in some states, and in some states, the limit is only 10 lakh rupees.
There are no special criteria for applying for a GST number; you just need to have your own business. Mainly shopkeepers (retailers and wholesalers), freelancers, service providers, online sellers or bloggers, or those doing digital marketing need a GST number.
But even if your turnover is below the limit, you can still apply for a GST number, as this will give you input tax credit and your business will look professional. Big companies prefer to deal with people who have a GST number, even if their turnover is low.
Documents Required for GST Registration
- PAN card
- Aadhar card
- Address proof (electricity bill, rent agreement, property papers)
- Passport size photo
- Mobile number
- Email id
- Passbook copy or bank statement
- Shop license
- Digital signature
Step-by-Step Process to Apply for GST Number Online
- First, you need to go to the www.gov.in website. The Register Now option will appear, and you need to click on it.
- A form type will appear in front of you; you have to fill in its Part A, in which you have to give basic details like PAN number, mobile number, email ID, state name. After filling in all the details, an OTP will come for verification; you have to verify by entering the OTP.
- After verification, you will receive a temporary reference number. You should note it down. After noticing it, go to the register section and enter the number you noted in the TRN section to log in.
- Then Part B will appear in front of you to fill; you have to fill that entire form in, in which you have to fill business details, address proof, bank details, Aadhar authentication, etc.
- After filling everything, click on submit.
- You will then receive an AARN (Application Reference Number). You should keep this safe so you can track your status.
After completing these steps, an officer will check and verify your documents. If everything is correct, you will receive a GSTIN.
GST Registration Fees (Government & Professional)
GST registration is completely free from the government’s side. The government does not charge you for anything like filling the form or getting GSTIN. But if you apply through a CA or an agent, they charge you; their charges vary from person to person. If it is a local agent, then they can charge 500 to 1000 INR; a CA firm, 1000 to 2500; and online platforms,499 to 1999 INR.
But it is not necessary that you apply through any agent only; you can apply by going to www.gst.gov.in. There is no charge there.
Time Taken to Get GST Number
There is no fixed time for getting GST registration. If all your documents are in order and the OTP from your Aadhaar card has been verified, you can get your GST number within 3 to 6 days. However, based on data, the average time to get a GST number can be 8 to 13 days, depending on a few factors.
- Documents are incomplete or incorrect.
- Aadhaar authentication fails.
- The officer needs clarification.
- Business address proof is weak (rent agreement or NOC missing).
- PAN or bank details mismatch.
The government has also provided a status tracking option, allowing you to check at what stage your application has been processed or rejected.
- Visit the GST portal www.gst.gov.in
- Click on “Track Application Status”
- Enter your ARN (Application Reference Number)
- The status will display – accepted, pending, clarification required, etc.
Common Reasons for Rejection
There are some common reasons behind cancellation of GST registration.
Most of the rejections are due to fake documents like PAN cards, Aadhaar cards, bank proof, etc. Rejection occurs when there is a mistake in the rent agreement. Documents may not be visible in the scan or due to mismatch.
If there is a mismatch in the business proof and address proof, if there is a rent agreement but NOC is not given, or if the utility bill is in someone else’s name, then cancellation takes place in this situation also.
Sometimes business details remain incomplete, like the business type, nature, and work, or turnover is not mentioned, bank account details are incomplete, or the Aadhaar OTP could not be verified.
A PAN card has already been approved by the GSTIN and has been applied for.
In the case of a company or LLP, a DSC is required; if it is not valid, then it may be rejected.
Benefits of Having GST Number
There are many benefits of having a GST number; I will explain them heading-wise.
Input Tax Credit (ITC)
When you have a GST number, you get ITC, due to which you do not have to pay double tax. If you do not have ITC, then when you buy goods, you have to pay GST, but due to having ITC, you get it back.
Get legal business identity
Your business gains legal recognition, which builds trust. GST registration registers your business in government records. Large companies prefer to deal only with those who have a GST number.
You are entitled to generate e-way bills.
If you have to send goods worth more than 50000 INR from one state to another, then an E-way bill is mandatory, and it is generated only when you have a GST number.
Get access to sell products on Amazon, Flipkart
Having a GSTIN is essential if you want to sell your products on Amazon or Flipkart, an online e-commerce platform. Without a GST number, you won’t even have access to selling products online.
There are many other benefits of having GST registration; I have told you about those benefits.
How to Download GST Certificate
- Go to www.gst.gov.in
- Login with username and password
- Click on the services tab
- Click on user services
- Then you will see GST Registration Certificate
- Click on download button
- Your certificate has been download in PDF from
FAQs
Can I get a GST number without a shop?
Yes, you can. If you’re working from home (freelance, online business), you can still claim GST by providing proof of your residential address. You just need to have the correct address proof—electricity bill, rent agreement, or NOC.
Do freelancers have to take GST?
If your annual income is more than ₹20 lakh (₹10 lakh in some states), then taking GST is mandatory. If it is less, you can also take voluntary registration—it will benefit from input credit and a professional image.
Is the GST number permanent?
Yes, as long as your business is running and you do not cancel it, the GSTIN remains valid. If the business is closed or the turnover falls below the limit, you can cancel it voluntarily.
Is a GST number required to sell online?
Yes, if you want to become a seller on sites like Amazon, Flipkart, Meesho, then GST number is mandatory. These platforms do not allow registration without GST.
Can there be multiple guest numbers on one PAN?
Yes, if your business is in multiple states, you will get a separate guarantor for each state – but the terms will remain the same.
Conclusion
If you run a business, whether from home or a shop, whether you’re a freelancer or an online seller, getting a GST number is a smart and necessary step. It legalizes your business, provides tax benefits, and helps you gain trust from major clients or platforms.
What to do now?
Apply yourself: If your documents are ready, start registration on www.gst.gov.in—it’s free! Consult a CA or agent: If you’re confused or don’t have time, seek help from a trusted CA or online platform—charges range from ₹500 to ₹2000.