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Disclaimer: This Article is for information purposes only. The views expressed in this Article do not necessarily constitute the views of Kotak Mahindra Bank Ltd. (“Bank”) or its employees. The Bank makes no warranty of any kind with respect to the completeness or accuracy of the material and articles contained in this Article. The information contained in this Article is sourced from empanelled external experts for the benefit of the customers and it does not constitute legal advice from the Bank. The Bank, its directors, employees and the contributors shall not be responsible or liable for any damage or loss resulting from or arising due to reliance on or use of any information contained herein. Tax laws are subject to amendment from time to time. The above information is for general understanding and reference. This is not legal advice or tax advice, and users are advised to consult their tax advisors before making any decision or taking any action.
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GST Search Tools and the GSTIN Verification Online Guide can be puzzling, especially for those not well-versed in the intricacies of Indian tax regulations. Let’s simplify and break down the two aspects through this article.
A GST Number Search Tool and GSTIN Verification Online Guide are crucial tools that support businesses, tax authorities, and consumers to verify the authenticity of GST registrations. They promote transparency and ensure compliance with tax laws. They play a vital role in the effective implementation of the GST system and contribute to the overall efficiency of the tax ecosystem.
While this sounds very helpful, how exactly does it work?
One can simply use a GST number search tool for free online GSTIN verification to determine whether a GST Identification Number (GSTIN) is valid or not. With just one click, anyone can confirm the validity of their GSTIN using the GST search tool, making it simple to identify bogus GSTIN. Let’s understand this further.
What is a GST Identification Number (GSTIN)/GST Number?
GSTIN is a unique identification number allotted to a registered taxpayer on the GSTN portal, popularly searched as the GSTIN Number. It is a 15-digit PAN-based unique identification number issued to every GST registered person. Every GST-registered person gets this unique code/ number. However, a registered trader may want to go through a GST verification process to be sure before including the GSTIN on their official documents. One can use the online GST online verification tools to check the validity of a respective GST number.
A single PAN holder can have multiple GSTINs. As it is a mandatory requirement to have GSTIN in every state from where the business is conducted (subject to the registration conditions), therefore, for each State or a given Union Territory where such a registered person operates, the taxpayer would have a unique GSTIN.
In contrast to the previous system, which comprised various indirect taxes regulated by different laws like excise duty, service tax, and VAT, GST introduces a distinct GST registration number for each state.
Why is it necessary to verify the GST Number?
Conducting a GST search based on the vendor's name is a crucial responsibility for any business engaged with GST-registered entities. A GSTIN or GST identification number is publicly accessible data. This process is vital to confirm the legitimacy of the vendor and the GSTIN mentioned on the invoice.
One way to initiate a preliminary verification of the GSTIN or GST number is by cross-referencing the vendor's PAN number with the digits located between positions 3 and 10 within the GSTIN.
Conducting a comprehensive assessment of the legitimacy of the GSTIN is also vital. This helps prevent the creation of inaccurate invoices and e-invoices, facilitates the rightful claiming of valid input tax credits, and ensures the correct transfer of tax credits to eligible purchasers, among other benefits.
Verifying the GST number is essential to ensure that taxes on goods and services go to the correct entities. It also presents an opportunity to contribute to the economic prosperity of the country and establish a transparent tax system. Additionally, accurate GST numbers are crucial for filing correct tax returns, claiming input tax credits, and complying with tax regulations, preventing costly errors and penalties.
GST Identification Number Format
Each GST number issued to a holder has 15 unique number formats, and the GST number can be identified easily by just looking at it. The first two digits of the format signify the state or province of registration for the GST number.
It is critical to note that each state in India has a different identification number, which is the first two digits of the GSTIN. The digits of the number from the 3rd position to the 12th position represent the PAN number of the owner with whom the GST number is associated.
The number in the 13th character shows how many GSTINs are issued to the holder in that state with one PAN. The 14th character is always the letter Z.
The character in the next position (15) is the check code. It can be a letter or a number and is primarily used for validation.
Steps to use the GST verification tool
There are various online GST number check engines, and they are very easily accessible. The GST portal also provides the facility for GST number check
The steps for all these engines are standard. Follow the simple steps to validate any GSTIN:
Step 1: Go to the respective GST no. verification website
Step 2: Enter the GSTIN you want to verify in the dialog box
Step 3: Click the search button to begin.
Verify your GSTIN online with a simple click on GSTN portal @ https://services.gst.gov.in/services/searchtp
Features of the GSTIN Search Tool?
The GSTIN search tools available online help registered businesses to check GSTINs of different suppliers and buyers. These tools help in finding the valid GST numbers. Important features of GSTIN search tool include:
Conclusion
The GST Number Search Tool and the broader GSTIN Verification Online Guide are indispensable resources in today's business landscape. They empower businesses to verify the authenticity of GST numbers, fostering transparency, compliance, and trust in commercial transactions. Thus, businesses should ensure that instances of GST no. search or GST no. check should not occur.
As businesses continue to adapt to evolving tax regulations, the GST Number Search Tool and verification processes remain essential pillars of responsible and efficient taxation in India.
In a way, it helps the taxpayer to avoid dealing with suppliers by using fake GSTINs and also prevents you from GSTIN fraud at the origin of the transaction rather than much later. These GST online check tools also help vendors correct potential error in reporting GSTINs.
Kotak Mahindra Bank is an authorized bank to collect Goods & Services Tax (GST) through its digital integration with the GST portal. Individual and corporate customers can make end-to-end tax payments on this portal simply by selecting Kotak Net Banking as a payment option or pay using Credit Card/Debit Card or UPI of any bank via the Kotak Payment Gateway. Customers can also make GST payments through cash, cheque or DD by selecting “Over-the-Counter” mode of payment while creating a challan on the GSTN portal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Do we need to pay to get a GST number?
No, registering for GST and getting a GSTIN or GST number is free.
Q2: How to get a GST Identification Number?
Form GST REG-01 along with required documents must be submitted through the GST portal to get GSTIN. The GSTIN will be issued to the applicant, once the officer has completed the verification process.
Q3: What are the uses of GSTIN?
Getting a GSTIN is one of the prerequisites for setting up a business. According to the Goods and Service Tax Act, 2017 the GSTIN must be displayed at all places of business of the registered person. It must also be printed on the invoices, on e-invoices and used for all communication with tax authorities.
Q4: Can I hold multiple GSTINs or GST numbers?
Yes, if the person has multiple business verticals within the same state the person can have different GSTINs. Further, also if the business operates in more than one state, the taxpayer may have a different GST registration for each state. For example, if a textile mill company operates in Karnataka and Delhi, it has to apply for separate GST registration in Karnataka and Delhi.
Q5: Can we find the GST number by PAN?
One can locate the GST number by entering the PAN of the registered person in the PAN guide's GST number search. This will provide you with precise and immediate results.
Q6: How do I verify a GST number?
Taxpayers can check if a GST number is correct and valid (or has not expired) using the GSTIN search engine. Enter the GSTIN number at hand and instantly get information about the taxpayer, buyer or supplier. If the GST number is invalid, the search engine will show it as an invalid GSTIN.
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