GST Quick Guide
GST is India's unified indirect tax system. It has 5 slabs (0%, 5%, 12%, 18%, 28%) depending on product type. For intra-state sales, GST is split into CGST (Central) and SGST (State). For inter-state sales, use IGST (Integrated GST). Key formulas: Add GST: GST Amount = (Base Price × Rate) / 100 | Remove GST: Base Price = Final Price / (1 + Rate/100).
Common GST Rates
- 0%: Essential goods, food, education, healthcare
- 5%: Packaged foods, basic items, non-AC restaurants
- 12%: Processed foods, electronics, medicines
- 18%: Most services, AC restaurants, apparel
- 28%: Luxury goods, alcohol, tobacco, high-end vehicles
Key Concepts
- ITC: Claim tax paid on purchases against sales tax
- Registration: Mandatory at ₹40L (goods) or ₹20L (services) turnover
- CGST+SGST: Use for same-state sales
- IGST: Use for inter-state sales
- E-invoicing: Required for business turnover > ₹5 crore
Registration: Mandatory if turnover > ₹40 lakh (goods) or ₹20 lakh (services). Apply on gst.gov.in with PAN, Aadhaar, bank details, and address proof. Get your 15-digit GSTIN. Composition Scheme: Small businesses (< ₹1.5C turnover) can opt for flat 1-6% rates without claiming ITC, simplifying compliance.
Return Filing: File GSTR-1 (sales) by 11th of next month, GSTR-3B (summary) by 20th of next month. Missing deadlines incurs ₹50/day penalty up to ₹10,000 per return, plus 18% interest on unpaid tax.