By Rohit Singhal – Commercial Account Services, Paonta Sahib
If you’re a small business owner, startup, trader, or service provider in India, understanding GST (Goods and Services Tax) is essential. GST has simplified the complex web of indirect taxes and brought uniformity in the taxation system across the country. But for many, terms like CGST, SGST, IGST, or GSTIN can still be confusing.
This beginner-friendly guide explains everything you need to know — in simple language.
📘 What is GST?
Goods and Services Tax (GST) is a unified indirect tax that replaced multiple old taxes like VAT, Service Tax, Excise, etc. It is a destination-based tax, meaning it is collected where the goods/services are consumed.
GST is levied on every value addition in the supply chain and is applicable on:
- Sale of goods
- Provision of services
- Imports
It came into effect on 1st July 2017 and is governed by the GST Council and GST Act.
🧾 Types of GST: CGST, SGST & IGST Explained
To maintain revenue sharing between the Centre and the States, GST is split into:
1. ✅ CGST – Central Goods & Services Tax
- Collected by the Central Government
- Applicable on intra-state transactions (within the same state)
2. ✅ SGST – State Goods & Services Tax
- Collected by the State Government
- Also applies to intra-state transactions
➡️ Example: If a shop in Himachal Pradesh sells goods to a customer in Himachal, GST will be split as CGST + SGST.
3. ✅ IGST – Integrated Goods & Services Tax
- Collected by the Central Government, then shared with states
- Applicable on inter-state transactions (between different states) and imports
➡️ Example: A dealer in Himachal selling to a customer in Delhi will charge IGST.
📝 Who Needs GST Registration?
You must register for GST if:
| Criteria | Threshold Limit |
|---|---|
| Business (goods) in normal category state | ₹40 Lakhs |
| Service providers | ₹20 Lakhs |
| Special category states (HP, NE, etc.) | ₹10-20 Lakhs |
| E-commerce sellers | Mandatory, regardless of turnover |
| Inter-state business | Mandatory |
| Voluntary registration | Allowed |
💡 Note: Himachal Pradesh is a special category state, so lower limits may apply. Always consult your tax advisor.
🛠️ How to Apply for GST Registration (Step-by-Step)
- Visit: https://www.gst.gov.in
- Click “Register Now” under the Taxpayers tab
- Fill in:
- PAN number
- Mobile & Email (OTP verification)
- Business details (Nature, Address, Bank Account)
- Upload documents (PAN, Aadhaar, photograph, address proof, etc.)
- Submit and get Application Reference Number (ARN)
- After verification, GSTIN will be issued within 3–7 working days
We can help you register professionally and error-free in one go.
🔍 What is GSTIN & Why It Matters
GSTIN stands for Goods and Services Tax Identification Number — a 15-digit unique ID provided upon GST registration.
📌 Format of GSTIN:
CopyEdit22ABCDE1234F1Z5
- First 2 digits = State code
- Next 10 = PAN number
- 13th = Entity number under same PAN
- 14th = Blank (default ‘Z’)
- 15th = Check digit
✅ How to Verify a GSTIN:
- Visit https://www.gst.gov.in
- Go to Search Taxpayer > Search by GSTIN/UIN
- Enter the GSTIN and verify name, status, and filing history
💡 Tip: Always verify GST numbers of suppliers to avoid fake invoices and input tax credit loss.
🎯 Final Words
Understanding GST is not just about compliance — it’s about building trust with your customers, claiming legal tax credits, and keeping your business safe from penalties.
If you’re just starting out or want professional assistance with GST registration, return filing, or notices, we’re here to help.
📍 Contact Rohit Singhal – GST & Compliance Specialist
Rohit Singhal
📌 Commercial Account Services
🏢 Mahadev Complex, Near Electricity Office, Taruwala,
Badripur, Paonta Sahib, Distt. Sirmour (H.P.)
📞 +91 98172 06937
📧 rohitpaonta@gmail.com
🌐 Reliable Solutions for GST, Accounting, Tax & Property Advisory
#GSTIndia #GSTRegistration #CGSTSGSTIGST #GSTINVerification #SmallBusinessIndia #RohitSinghal #TaxConsultantHP #CommercialAccountServices #PaontaSahibBusinessSupport #MSMECompliance
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