How to Get GST Certificate: Your Step-by-Step Guide

If you are a business owner then you might be familiar with the Goods and Services Tax. It's an important aspect of tax compliance, and having a GST certificate is a fundamental requirement. In this detailed guide, we'll walk you through the entire process of how to get a GST certificate. From understanding eligibility criteria to navigating the application process, we've got all the information you need to obtain your GST certificate hassle-free.

How To Get GST Certificate?

Before applying for the GST certificate, just make sure to have all the GST registration documents prepared. Note: You can get a GST certificate only if you are eligible and fulfill all the prescribed criteria. Refer to the below section (The eligibility Criteria to get GST certificate?) Now let look at the step-by-step process of obtaining one:

1. GST Registration Portal

The foremost step is to visit the official GST registration portal (https://www.gst.gov.in/) to begin your registration process.

2. New Registration

On the GST portal's home page, click on the "Services" tab, and under "Registration," select "New Registration."

3. Part A of the Form

You'll be redirected to Part A of the registration form. Fill in your details, including the legal name of your business, state, and district.

4. Permanent Account Number (PAN)

Enter your Permanent Account Number (PAN). The portal will verify your PAN, and you will get an OTP on your registered mobile number and email address.

5. OTP Verification

Verify your OTP, which will be sent to your mobile number and email.

6. Application Reference Number (ARN)

After successful verification, you'll receive an Application Reference Number (ARN). Keep this ARN number safe and secure as it might be essential for the future.

7. Part B of the Form

Now, log in with your ARN, and you'll be directed to Part B of the registration form. Complete this section with detailed information about your business.

8. Upload Documents

You'll need to upload specific documents, including photographs, proof of business registration, and bank account details.

9. Verification

Once you've filled out the form and uploaded the necessary documents, you'll need to digitally sign the application using a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) or the Electronic Verification Code (EVC).

10. Verification of Application

Your application will undergo scrutiny, and if there are no issues, you'll receive your GST certificate.

11. Acknowledgment

Lastly, you will receive an acknowledgment via email and SMS, along with your GST certificate.

Eligibility For GST Certificate

To get started, it's essential to understand who is eligible for a GST certificate. Here's a breakdown:

1. Businesses with a Turnover of Over Rs. 40 Lakhs

If you own a business and have an annual turnover of more than Rs. 40 lakhs (Rs. 10 lakhs for North Eastern and hilly states), you are required to register for GST.

2. Inter-State Sales

If you're involved in inter-state sales or e-commerce activities, regardless of your turnover, you must obtain a GST certificate.

3. Casual Taxable Person

Individuals or businesses that occasionally supply goods or services are eligible for a GST certificate. 

4. Non-Resident Taxable Person

Non-resident individuals or businesses that supply taxable goods or services are also required to obtain a GST certificate.

5. Input Service Distributor

If you're an Input Service Distributor, you'll need to register for GST.

6. E-commerce Operators

E-commerce operators are required to collect tax at source, making a GST certificate mandatory.

7. Agents of a Supplier

Individuals or businesses that act as agents of a supplier are eligible for GST registration.

8. Tax Deducted at Source (TDS) Deductors

TDS deductors must also have a GST certificate.

How To Download GST Certificate Step-by-Step?

To obtain your GST certificate, follow these steps on the GST portal, as physical copies are no longer provided by the government. Before proceeding to download your GST certificate, ensure that your GST registration has been approved. Here's how to download your GST certificate:

Step 1: The first step is to log in to the GST official website.

Step 2: Navigate to "Services," then select "User Services," and choose "View/Download Certificate."

Step 3: Click on the "Download" icon.

Step 4: Open the downloaded PDF document and print it.

Step 5: Display the printed certificate prominently at all your business locations in the State or UT.

How To Correct Errors On GST Certificates?

Sometimes it happens that individuals as a human make some errors or fill in the wrong information in the GST certificate. If you are one of those and need to correct any information on your GST registration certificate because it's inaccurate, you can make amendments through the GST portal. 

These changes, often referred to as amendments to core fields, require approval from tax officials. Once approved, you can download an updated GST registration certificate. Here are some core fields you can amend:

1. Legal or trade name of your business (without changing the PAN).

2. Principal place of business.

3. Additional places of business within the same state.

4. Adding or removing partners, karta, managing directors, whole-time directors, members of managing committees, board of trustees, chief executive officers, or equivalent positions.

To initiate an amendment to core fields, follow these steps:

1. Access the GST Portal.

2. Log in with your credentials.

3. Click on "Services," then choose "Registration," and select "Amendment of Registration Core Fields."

4. Now you need to make the necessary amendments in the essential columns.

5. In the Verification tab, check the Verification checkbox.

6. Choose the authorized signatory from the drop-down list.

7. Enter the name of the place.

8. After filling out the amendment application, you'll need to digitally sign it using a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC), E-Signature, or EVC.

9. Once you've applied for amendment, you'll receive updates on its status through SMS and email notifications. If the application is approved, you can view the approval order (REG 15) and download it on the GST portal. The portal also allows you to download the updated registration certificate, which includes the amended details.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: How long does it take to get a GST certificate?

A: The processing time can vary, but it typically takes about 3 to 6 working days for your GST certificate to be issued.

Q: Is there a fee for GST registration?

A: Yes, there is a fee for GST registration. The fee structure is based on the nature of your business and its location.

Q: What happens if I don't get a GST certificate?

A: Failure to obtain a GST certificate can result in penalties and legal consequences. It's crucial to register if you meet the eligibility criteria.

Q: Can I amend my GST certificate after it's issued?

A: Yes, you can make amendments to your GST certificate if there are any changes in your business details.

Also Read: Duties on Imports: A Guide to Custom and Import Taxes in India

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