{"id":7382,"date":"2025-02-24T13:48:33","date_gmt":"2025-02-24T08:18:33","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/razorpay.com\/learn\/?p=7382"},"modified":"2025-02-26T13:35:37","modified_gmt":"2025-02-26T08:05:37","slug":"what-is-gstin-all-you-know-about-your-15-digits-gstin","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/razorpay.com\/learn\/what-is-gstin-all-you-know-about-your-15-digits-gstin\/","title":{"rendered":"What is GSTIN? Full Form, Format, and Verification"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_80 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-transparent ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<label for=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-item-69d8ecf234e5a\" class=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-label\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/label><input type=\"checkbox\"  id=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-item-69d8ecf234e5a\"  aria-label=\"Toggle\" \/><nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/razorpay.com\/learn\/what-is-gstin-all-you-know-about-your-15-digits-gstin\/#What-is-GSTIN\" >What is GSTIN?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/razorpay.com\/learn\/what-is-gstin-all-you-know-about-your-15-digits-gstin\/#GSTIN-Number-Format-Example-%E2%80%93-Decoding-the-15-Digit-GSTIN\" >GSTIN Number Format &amp; Example &#8211; Decoding the 15-Digit GSTIN<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/razorpay.com\/learn\/what-is-gstin-all-you-know-about-your-15-digits-gstin\/#How-to-Apply-for-GSTIN\" >How to Apply for GSTIN?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/razorpay.com\/learn\/what-is-gstin-all-you-know-about-your-15-digits-gstin\/#What-is-the-cost-of-obtaining-GSTIN\" >What is the cost of obtaining GSTIN?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/razorpay.com\/learn\/what-is-gstin-all-you-know-about-your-15-digits-gstin\/#How-is-GSTIN-Different-From-GSTN\" >How is GSTIN Different From GSTN?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/razorpay.com\/learn\/what-is-gstin-all-you-know-about-your-15-digits-gstin\/#Why-is-GSTIN-Required\" >Why is GSTIN Required?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/razorpay.com\/learn\/what-is-gstin-all-you-know-about-your-15-digits-gstin\/#What-are-the-Benefits-of-GSTIN-Number\" >What are the Benefits of GSTIN Number?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/razorpay.com\/learn\/what-is-gstin-all-you-know-about-your-15-digits-gstin\/#Documents-Required-for-GSTIN-Number\" >Documents Required for GSTIN Number<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/razorpay.com\/learn\/what-is-gstin-all-you-know-about-your-15-digits-gstin\/#How-to-Apply-for-GSTIN-Through-GST-Portal\" >How to\u00a0Apply for GSTIN Through GST Portal<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/razorpay.com\/learn\/what-is-gstin-all-you-know-about-your-15-digits-gstin\/#How-to-Apply-for-GSTIN-through-GST-Seva-Kendra\" >How to Apply for GSTIN through GST Seva Kendra<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/razorpay.com\/learn\/what-is-gstin-all-you-know-about-your-15-digits-gstin\/#How-to-Verify-GSTIN\" >How to Verify GSTIN?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/razorpay.com\/learn\/what-is-gstin-all-you-know-about-your-15-digits-gstin\/#How-to-Spot-Fake-GSTIN\" >How to Spot Fake GSTIN?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/razorpay.com\/learn\/what-is-gstin-all-you-know-about-your-15-digits-gstin\/#%E2%80%8BConclusion\" >\u200bConclusion<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/razorpay.com\/learn\/what-is-gstin-all-you-know-about-your-15-digits-gstin\/#FAQs-on-GST-Number-Format\" >FAQs on GST Number Format<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What-is-GSTIN\"><\/span><b>What is GSTIN?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><strong data-start=\"103\" data-end=\"157\">GSTIN (Goods &amp; Services Tax Identification Number)<\/strong> is a <strong data-start=\"163\" data-end=\"193\">15-digit unique identifier<\/strong> assigned to every GST-registered taxpayer, including businesses, firms, dealers, and suppliers, under the <strong data-start=\"300\" data-end=\"323\">GST regime in India<\/strong>. It is mandatory for businesses engaged in taxable supplies and is issued upon successful GST registration.<\/p>\n<p>Every business operating in a state or Union territory is assigned a unique Goods and Services Tax Identification Number (GSTIN) PAN, state and entity details. Under the GST Act 2017, businesses and individuals have to register their business with the state authorities and obtain a unique 15-digit GSTIN.<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The GSTIN Number is used for various GST-related procedures, such as filing returns, claiming input tax credits and paying taxes.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><em><strong>Read More: <a href=\"https:\/\/razorpay.com\/learn\/gst-goods-and-services-tax-guide\/\">What is GST and How Does It Work?<\/a><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"GSTIN-Number-Format-Example-%E2%80%93-Decoding-the-15-Digit-GSTIN\"><\/span><b>GSTIN Number Format &amp; Example &#8211; Decoding the 15-Digit GSTIN<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Each taxpayer within the GST system receives a unique 15-digit Goods and Services Taxpayer Identification Number (GSTIN), determined by their State, PAN, and Entity based details.<\/p>\n<p><strong>The structure of this number will be as follows:<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-10356 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/d6xcmfyh68wv8.cloudfront.net\/learn-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/what-gstin-number-looks-like.png\" alt=\"what gstin number looks like\" width=\"583\" height=\"287\" srcset=\"https:\/\/d6xcmfyh68wv8.cloudfront.net\/learn-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/what-gstin-number-looks-like.png 583w, https:\/\/d6xcmfyh68wv8.cloudfront.net\/learn-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/what-gstin-number-looks-like-300x148.png 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 583px) 100vw, 583px\" \/><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The first 2 digits are reserved for the <a href=\"https:\/\/razorpay.com\/learn\/gst-state-code-list-and-jurisdiction-under-gst\/\">GST state code<\/a> as per the Indian Census. Indian states or union territories are assigned unique codes (01-35). For example, <strong>&#8220;29&#8221;<\/strong> is the state code for Karnataka (KA).<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The following 10 digits <strong>&#8220;ABCDE1234F&#8221;<\/strong> represent the PAN number of the business entity or the taxpayer.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The thirteenth digit number <strong>&#8220;2&#8221;<\/strong> is the registrations done by the firm within the state using the same PAN number. It can be an alphanumeric figure (between 1-9 and then A-Z)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The fourteenth is the default alphabet <strong>\u2018Z\u2019<\/strong><\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The fifteenth digit <strong>&#8220;5&#8221;<\/strong> will be a check code, which can be a number or an alphabet.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How-to-Apply-for-GSTIN\"><\/span>How to Apply for GSTIN?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Getting a Goods and Services Tax Identification Number (GSTIN) involves a straightforward process.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Here\u2019s a step-by-step guide on <a href=\"https:\/\/razorpay.com\/learn\/how-to-get-a-gstin-number\/\">how to get a GSTIN number<\/a> online in India:<\/strong><\/p>\n<h3><b>1. Login to the GST Portal<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Log in to the GST portal of India (services.gst.gov.in). Then, click on the \u2018New Registration\u2019 tab<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>2. Share Details<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Enter all the required details, which include name, number, email ID, and other details. Verify the details using the OTP that will be shared on your mobile number or email<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><strong>3. Receive Application Reference Number (ARN)<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Next, you will get an ARN (Application Reference Number) on your mobile or email. Note this down and fill out the Part-B Application Form for GSTIN.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>4. Furnish Documents<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Attach the documents as requested, which include proof of business, bank statements, residential proof, PAN Card, certificate of incorporation, partnership deed and more.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>5. Submit Application<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Submit the duly filled application form with all the documents attached. The verification process usually takes up to three working days and you will receive communication from GST REG 06 once the application is approved.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Alternatively, you can register for GSTIN by visiting the nearest GST, Seva Kendra and filling out the offline form with the duly requested documents.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><em><strong>Read More: <a href=\"https:\/\/razorpay.com\/learn\/gst-registration-eligibility-process-documents-and-penalties\/\">How to register for GST?<\/a><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"cost\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What-is-the-cost-of-obtaining-GSTIN\"><\/span>What is the cost of obtaining GSTIN?<span id=\"cost\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Obtaining a <strong data-start=\"58\" data-end=\"114\">GSTIN (Goods and Services Tax Identification Number)<\/strong> and registering for <strong data-start=\"135\" data-end=\"178\">GST in India is completely free of cost<\/strong>. There are <strong data-start=\"190\" data-end=\"212\">no government fees<\/strong> for GST registration, and businesses can apply for a GSTIN online through the official GST portal at <strong data-start=\"314\" data-end=\"330\">zero charges<\/strong>. However, if you seek assistance from a professional or consultant for GST registration, they may charge a service fee.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How-is-GSTIN-Different-From-GSTN\"><\/span><b>How is GSTIN Different From GSTN?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">GSTIN and GSTN are two terms that are often confused by many people. However, they are very different from each other. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><strong>Here is a clear definition and comparison of GSTIN and GSTN:<\/strong><\/p>\n<table>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<h3><b>GSTIN<\/b><\/h3>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<h3><b>GSTN<\/b><\/h3>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">GSTIN is a unique 15-digit alphanumeric code. It is assigned to every business registered under the GST regime in India.<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">GSTN is a Goods and Service Tax Network. It is an organisation that manages the entire GST portal&#8217;s IT system.<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It is mandatory for every GST taxpayer and is used to identify, track, and verify the tax transactions and compliance of the taxpayers<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It is a non-profit, non-government company that provides services to the government, taxpayers and other stakeholders related to the GST system<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It is composed of the state code, PAN, entity code, blank digit, and checksum digit. GSTIN can be verified online through the GST Portal<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">GSTN is responsible for developing, maintaining, and operating the GST portal, the common interface for registration, filing, payment and refund of GST. It also facilitates data exchange between the central and state tax authorities and other agencies.<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why-is-GSTIN-Required\"><\/span>Why is GSTIN Required?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Operating your business legally in India requires a GSTIN number. This applies if your business&#8217;s annual turnover exceeds Rs. 40 lakh (or Rs. 10 lakh for Northeast states). Registering for GST and obtaining a GSTIN helps you avoid penalties and fines.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Here are some reasons why you must know how to get a GST number online.<\/strong><\/p>\n<h3><b>1. Filing GST Returns<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A GST number is required to file <a href=\"https:\/\/razorpay.com\/learn\/types-gst-taxes-returns\/\">GST returns<\/a>, which are periodic statements of a registered person&#8217;s transactions and tax liability. Filing GST returns is mandatory for every GST-registered person, even if there is no business activity or tax liability in a given period.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>2. Claiming Input Tax Credit<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A GST number is also necessary to claim the input tax credit, which is the amount of GST paid on the goods or services purchased for business purposes. Input tax credit claim is likely for a GST-registered person only if the supplier has uploaded the invoice details in the GST portal and the GST number of the buyer is mentioned on the invoice.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>3. Avoiding Penalties<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A GST number is also important to avoid penalties for non-compliance with the GST Act. If a person is liable to register under GST but fails to do so, he or she may face a penalty of 10% of the tax due or Rs. 10,000, whichever is higher. Similarly, if a person collects GST from customers but does not deposit it with the government, they may face a penalty of 100% of the tax amount.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><em><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><strong>Tip:<\/strong> Before you start filing your GST returns, you need to know your liability. You can <\/span>calculate GST online under different <a href=\"https:\/\/razorpay.com\/learn\/gst-rates-goods-and-service-tax-rates-slabs\/\">GST rate<\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> slabs for your business with Razorpay\u2019s<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/razorpay.com\/gst-calculator\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">GST Calculator<\/span><\/a><\/em><\/p>\n<p><span data-sheets-root=\"1\" data-sheets-value=\"{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:&quot;Related Read: How to Check GST Registration Status Online?&quot;}\" data-sheets-userformat=\"{&quot;2&quot;:332543,&quot;3&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:0},&quot;4&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:14277081},&quot;5&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:[{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;5&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:0}},{&quot;1&quot;:0,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;3&quot;:3},{&quot;1&quot;:1,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;4&quot;:1}]},&quot;6&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:[{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;5&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:0}},{&quot;1&quot;:0,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;3&quot;:3},{&quot;1&quot;:1,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;4&quot;:1}]},&quot;7&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:[{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;5&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:0}},{&quot;1&quot;:0,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;3&quot;:3},{&quot;1&quot;:1,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;4&quot;:1}]},&quot;8&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:[{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;5&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:0}},{&quot;1&quot;:0,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;3&quot;:3},{&quot;1&quot;:1,&quot;2&quot;:0,&quot;4&quot;:1}]},&quot;9&quot;:0,&quot;10&quot;:1,&quot;12&quot;:0,&quot;15&quot;:&quot;Calibri&quot;,&quot;19&quot;:0,&quot;21&quot;:0}\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><strong>Related Read:<\/strong><\/span> <a href=\"https:\/\/razorpay.com\/learn\/how-to-check-gst-registration-status\/\">How to Check GST Registration Status Online?<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What-are-the-Benefits-of-GSTIN-Number\"><\/span><b>What are the Benefits of GSTIN Number?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><strong>The benefits of GSTIN are as follows:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It helps in reducing tax evasion, fraud, duplication, identity theft and other economic crimes.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It helps in tracking transactions across States and Union Territories.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It will provide a single point for all indirect tax-related compliances.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Having GSTIN ensures businesses can operate in interstate sales without restrictions, improving the potential market for small and medium-sized businesses.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Anyone with a GSTIN can take input credit on purchases and input services and make sure that your business is compliant with GST regulations, improving the GST rating of your firm.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Documents-Required-for-GSTIN-Number\"><\/span>Documents Required for GSTIN Number<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">To obtain a GST number or GSTIN, you need to submit the following documents along with your application:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li aria-level=\"1\"><strong>PAN Card:<\/strong> This applies to the business entity (company PAN for companies, etc.) and authorized signatory (individual PAN).<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Business Constitution<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Partnership deed, registration certificate, memorandum of association, articles of association, etc.<\/span><\/li>\n<li aria-level=\"1\"><strong>Identity and Address Proof of Promoters\/Directors\/Partners:<\/strong> This could be Aadhaar card, Passport, Voter ID card etc.<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><strong>Proof of Principal Place of Business:<\/strong> This can be a property tax receipt, electricity bill, rent agreement etc. with your business address.<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><strong>Bank Account Proof:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/razorpay.com\/learn\/cancelled-cheque\/\">Cancelled cheque<\/a> or bank statement with business bank account details.<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Signed Authorisation Form<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: This authorises a person to act as your authorised signatory for GST purposes.<\/span><\/li>\n<li aria-level=\"1\"><strong>Photographs<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How-to-Apply-for-GSTIN-Through-GST-Portal\"><\/span>How to\u00a0Apply for GSTIN Through GST Portal<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You can apply for GSTIN online through the GST Portal by following these steps:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Visit the GST Portal at<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gst.gov.in\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">https:\/\/www.gst.gov.in\/<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and click on Services &gt; Registration &gt; New Registration.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Select your Taxpayer Type, State and District from the drop-down menus and enter your Legal Name, PAN, Email Address and Mobile Number. Click on Proceed.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You will receive two OTPs on your email and mobile number. Enter the OTP and click on Continue.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You will get a TRN on your email and mobile number. Note down the TRN and click on Proceed.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Visit the portal again and tap on Services &gt; Registration &gt; New Registration. Select Temporary Reference Number (TRN) and enter your TRN and the captcha code. Click on Proceed.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Enter the OTP and click on Proceed.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">See the application status as Draft. Tap on the Edit icon to fill out the application form.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The application form has two parts: Part A and Part B. Part A contains basic information, such as business details, promoter details, authorised signatory details, etc. Part B contains additional information, such as goods and services details, bank account details, state-specific information, etc. You need to fill both parts and upload the required documents.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">After completing the form, submit it with a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) or an Aadhaar-based OTP. For DSC, sign the application using an authorised signatory&#8217;s valid DSC. For an Aadhaar-based OTP, verify the Aadhaar number of the signatory and enter the OTP sent to the registered mobile number.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How-to-Apply-for-GSTIN-through-GST-Seva-Kendra\"><\/span>How to Apply for GSTIN through GST Seva Kendra<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If unable to apply for GSTIN online, visit GST Seva Kendra, a government centre aiding with GST processes like registration, filing, payment, and refund. Find one on the GST Portal under Contact Us.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">To apply for GSTIN through a GST Seva Kendra, you need to follow these steps:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Visit the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gstsevakendra.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">GST Seva Kendra<\/a><\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Submit the documents and the application form to the GST officer<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The GST officer will verify your documents and details and upload them on the GST Portal.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The GST officer will give you an acknowledgement slip with the ARN.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Use the ARN to track the status of your application.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How-to-Verify-GSTIN\"><\/span><b>How to Verify GSTIN?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Since every <\/span>GSTIN number <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">follows this structure, it is easy for you to check the authenticity of the business. <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You can instantly<\/span> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">validate a GSTIN number<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> using the <a href=\"https:\/\/razorpay.com\/gst-number-search\/\">Razorpay Number Search &amp; Verification Tool<\/a>, which helps you verify the authenticity of a GST number online and for free. GSTIN is public information, and technology has made it easy to verify GSTIN, which is crucial before doing any business dealings. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><strong><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Tip:<\/span> You can find the different GSTINs associated with PAN using Razorpay\u2019s<a href=\"https:\/\/razorpay.com\/gst-number-search\/pan\/\"> GST search by PAN<\/a> tool.<\/strong><\/p>\n<h3><strong>Verify GSTIN on GST Portal<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u00a0Here are the steps to verify GSTIN on the GST Portal:<\/span><\/p>\n<ol>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Visit the official GST Portal at<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gst.gov.in\/.\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">https:\/\/www.gst.gov.in\/.<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Click on the Search Taxpayer tab on the homepage and select Search by GSTIN\/UIN.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Enter the taxpayer&#8217;s GSTIN or UIN and click the Search button.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If the GSTIN is valid, you will see the taxpayer&#8217;s details, such as legal name, trade name, address, date of registration, status, and tax liability.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If the GSTIN is invalid, you will see an error message saying No records found.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Alternatively, you can use the Razorpay GST Search Tool to verify GSTIN online. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><strong>Here are the steps to use this tool:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ol>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Visit the <a href=\"https:\/\/razorpay.com\/gst-number-search\/\">Razorpay GST Search Tool<\/a>.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Enter the GSTIN of the taxpayer you want to verify and click the Search button.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If the GSTIN is valid, you will see the details.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If the GSTIN is invalid, you will see an error message saying Invalid GSTIN<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Verifying GSTIN is vital to prevent fraudulent activities such as fake invoicing, tax evasion, and input tax credit fraud.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How-to-Spot-Fake-GSTIN\"><\/span><b>How to Spot Fake GSTIN?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Watch out for fake GSTINs dishonest entities use to dodge taxes or cheat customers; follow these steps to track.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Go to the GST portal<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Click the Search Taxpayer tab on the homepage.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Select the Search by GSTIN\/UIN option and enter the GSTIN you want to verify in the box. Enter the captcha code if required.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tap on the Search tab. If the GSTIN is valid, you will see the information on your screen.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Some of the consequences of issuing or dealing with fake GSTINs are:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Loss of input tax credit. This will increase your tax liability and reduce your profits.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You may face a penalty of up to 100% of the tax amount involved, and imprisonment can be up to five years.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Fake GST may damage your reputation and goodwill in the market.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"%E2%80%8BConclusion\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u200b<\/span><b>Conclusion<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">GSTIN has replaced all state VAT laws and unique TIN numbers to become the unique identification number for the business. It acts as the legal recognition of the business entity and helps build trust among customers and business partners. Anyone with a GSTIN number can easily log in to the GST portal, file their details to get benefits and take input credit on their purchases and services.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Thus, GSTIN helps to improve tax compliance for businesses and makes the process simpler and completely online, resulting in transparent transactions and enhancing the scope of business.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 class=\"text-1.5xl font-semibold text-gray-900 mb-2\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"FAQs-on-GST-Number-Format\"><\/span>FAQs on GST Number Format<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><b>1. Is the GSTN and GSTIN the same?<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">GSTN and GSTIN are not the same. GSTN is the Goods and Services Tax Network, which is an organisation that manages the IT system of the GST portal. GSTIN means Goods and Services Tax Identification Number. It is a unique 15-digit number assigned to every <a href=\"https:\/\/razorpay.com\/learn\/taxable-person-under-gst\/\">registered person under GST<\/a>.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>2. How do I find my GST number?<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You can find your GST number using the GST number search tool on the GST portal or other websites. You need to enter the PAN or name of the business and select the state to search for the GST number.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>3. Is GST number free?<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes, the government does not charge any fees for GST registration.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>4. Are GST and PAN numbers the same?<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">GST and PAN numbers are not the same. GST number is based on the PAN number of the business, but it also includes the state code, entity code and checksum digit. PAN number is a 10-digit alphanumeric number issued by the Income Tax Department to identify taxpayers.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>5. How do I file a complaint regarding a forged GSTIN?<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You can file a complaint regarding a forged GSTIN on the GST Grievance Redressal Portal by following the steps on the GST portal or other websites.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>6. Can a student get a GST number?<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A student can get a GST number if they meet the eligibility criteria for GST registration.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>7. Is it compulsory to pay GST?<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It is compulsory to pay GST if you are a registered person under GST and you make taxable supplies of goods or services.<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>What is GSTIN? GSTIN (Goods &amp; Services Tax Identification Number) is a 15-digit unique identifier assigned to every GST-registered taxpayer, including businesses, firms, dealers, and suppliers, under the GST regime in India. It is mandatory for businesses engaged in taxable supplies and is issued upon successful GST registration. Every business operating in a state or<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":151156506,"featured_media":7384,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[3435],"tags":[3624,3785],"class_list":{"0":"post-7382","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-gst-tax-government","8":"tag-gstin","9":"tag-gstin-number"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/learn.razorpay.in\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/7382","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/learn.razorpay.in\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/learn.razorpay.in\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/learn.razorpay.in\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/151156506"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/learn.razorpay.in\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=7382"}],"version-history":[{"count":24,"href":"https:\/\/learn.razorpay.in\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/7382\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":16265,"href":"https:\/\/learn.razorpay.in\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/7382\/revisions\/16265"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/learn.razorpay.in\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/7384"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/learn.razorpay.in\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=7382"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/learn.razorpay.in\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=7382"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/learn.razorpay.in\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=7382"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}