What’s a GSTIN Number? How to Apply Like a Pro!

If you are starting a new business and expecting turnover to exceed ₹40 lakhs (Rs. 20 Lakhs or more for a special category of states), then you must register and get yourself a Goods and Services Tax Identification Number (GSTIN). This identification number is unique for all businesses and helps in filing GST returns. 

If you don’t know how to get a GSTIN number, what is GSTIN, or how to check GSTIN then don’t worry, we are going to discuss everything in this blog. 

Fun fact: There are approximately 1.5 Cr GST registrations or active GSTINs across the country. 

What is GSTIN Number?

Ever since you started your small business ‘what is a GSTIN number’ might have come into your mind a couple of times, so here we are. GSTIN is an acronym for ‘Goods and Services Tax Identification Number’. It is a 15 character unique identifier allotted to businesses who are registered under GST, irrespective of their business industry or nature. This number is further used for compliance, return filing, and claim of Input Tax Credit (ITC).  

Importance of GSTIN Number

GSTIN is a unique identifier that helps tax authorities to track your business transactions. Following are the importance of getting GSTIN for your business. 

Registration: It is mandatory for a business with turnover more than the prescribed limit to register under GST and get a GSTIN for their business. The prescribed turnover limit is 40 lakhs per annum (20 lakhs for special category of states). 

Tax compliance: GSTIN or GST number is used for filing returns, paying outstanding tax amount, claiming input tax credit and enables you to stay compliant with GST laws and regulations. 

Business Transactions: GST number is mandatory for carrying out business transactions, and also for issuing tax-compliant invoices, making interstate supplies and availing tax benefits. 

If you’re unsure how to register for GST, check out our comprehensive guide on the GST registration process.

GSTIN Number Benefits 

It aids in preventing and identifying tax evasion, duplication, identity theft, fraud, etc. 

It aids in tracking all the business transactions across all the states and union territories of India. 

It functions as a single point reference for all the things related to indirect tax and compliance.  

Registering your business under GST and having GSTIN ensures that your business is eligible for interstate transactions without any restrictions. 

GSTIN enables you to claim Input Tax Credit on purchases of goods and services, particularly for business purposes. 

Having GSTIN ensures that your business is compliant with the indirect tax regulations. 

How to Apply for GSTIN Number?

The GSTIN application process is simple, paperless and online. Here’s a simplified step-by-step process to register under GST and get a Goods and Service Tax Identification Number (GSTIN) for your business. 

Step 1: Go to the official GST portal (services.gst.gov.in) and click on ‘Register’ in the top right-hand corner. 

Step 2: Enter the required details such as name, contact number, email address and other details asked in form. Verify the details using OTP sent to your mobile number or email address. 

Step 3: Once you have verified the details, you will receive an email or SMS with ARN (Application Reference Number). Use this number to proceed to Part B of the application form. 

Step 4: Fill all the required details and upload the supporting documents in the prescribed format. 

Here is the list of documents that are required to be uploaded: 

• Proof of business address
• Bank statements 
• Residential proof
• PAN card
• Certificate of incorporation
• Partnership deed

Step 5: Submit the form after attaching the documents. The verification of the application may take up to three working days. Once it is approved you will receive an acknowledgement notification from the authorities. 

Documents Required for GSTIN Registration

To obtain a GSTIN registration for your business, you need to submit the following documents: 

• PAN: The Company’s as well as the individual’s PAN (authorized signatory) is required 

• Business constitution documents: Registration certificate, partnership deed memorandum of association, articles of association, etc.

• Identity proof of business owner/partners: Voter ID, Passport, Driving License, Aadhaar card can be used as a proof of identity. 

• Proof of principal place of business: Property tax receipt, electricity bill, rent agreement, etc can be used as proof of business address. 

• Proof of bank account: Cancelled cheque or bank statement with business account details. 

• Authorization letter: The letter authorizes an individual to act as an authorized signatory for all the things related to the GST. 

Also check out our blog on documents required for GST registration for partnership firm.

Over to You

We hope after reading this blog on what the GSTIN number is and how to apply for it you understand the GST registration process. If you have any queries or concerns, don’t hesitate to contact us. If you are looking for a smart accounting, billing and GST software, we highly recommend you to sign up with us and experience the magic of Munim on your business compliance. 

FAQs on What is GSTIN Number

1. How many alphanumeric are in GSTIN?

There are, in total, 15 numerics in GSTIN.

2. What is the full form of GSTIN?

The full form of GSTIN is ‘Goods and Service Tax Identification Number.’

3. How to check GSTIN number in bulk?​

You can use online tools to check GSTIN in bulk. 

4. How to find GSTIN by PAN?

If you have the PAN of your client and now you want to find his GSTIN, kindly follow the below-explained instructions: 

Step 1: Go to the official website of GST, i.e GST portal 

Step 2: Click on ‘Search Taxpayer’ > ‘Search by PAN’ 

Step 3: Enter the PAN and the Captcha code visible on the screen 

Step 4: Hit the ‘Search’ button. Now the GSTIN registered with the provided PAN will be visible on the screen.