In short: GST registration is mandatory once your aggregate turnover crosses ₹40 lakh (goods) or ₹20 lakh (services) in most states — but inter-state supply, e-commerce selling and several other triggers make it compulsory at any turnover. Registration itself is free, online and usually completed within 7 working days.
Who must register for GST?
The basic turnover thresholds under the CGST Act are ₹40 lakh in aggregate turnover for suppliers of goods and ₹20 lakh for suppliers of services (₹20 lakh and ₹10 lakh respectively in special-category states such as Manipur, Mizoram, Nagaland and Tripura). “Aggregate turnover” is PAN-wide — it adds up taxable, exempt and export supplies across all your branches in India, which is where many businesses miscalculate.
When is registration mandatory regardless of turnover?
Several categories must register from the very first rupee:
- Businesses making inter-state taxable supplies of goods
- Sellers on e-commerce platforms like Amazon, Flipkart or Meesho
- Persons liable to pay tax under reverse charge
- Casual taxable persons and non-resident taxable persons
- Input service distributors and agents supplying on behalf of others
If any of these describe you, the ₹40/₹20 lakh thresholds simply don’t apply.
Should you register voluntarily below the threshold?
Often, yes. Voluntary registration lets you claim input tax credit on purchases, sell to corporate customers who insist on GST invoices, and list on e-commerce platforms. The trade-off is ongoing return-filing obligations — typically GSTR-1 and GSTR-3B monthly or quarterly. We help clients weigh this based on margins and customer mix.
What is the registration process?
- Gather documents — PAN, Aadhaar, proof of business address (electricity bill / rent agreement / NOC), bank details, photograph, and constitution documents (partnership deed or certificate of incorporation).
- File Part A and Part B of REG-01 on the GST portal; Aadhaar authentication speeds up approval considerably.
- Respond to any clarification notice (REG-03) within 7 working days — this is where most DIY applications get stuck.
- Receive your GSTIN and certificate (REG-06). With successful Aadhaar authentication, approval typically takes about 7 working days.
What happens after you register?
Registration is the start, not the end: invoices must follow GST format with your GSTIN and HSN/SAC codes, returns must be filed even for nil months, and input-credit claims should be reconciled with GSTR-2B every period. Missed filings attract late fees and block your customers’ credit — the most common reason businesses lose B2B clients.
Our GST team handles registration, returns, reconciliations and notices end to end, with offices in Bangalore, Mysore, Kolkata, Delhi and three more cities.
FAQs
Is GST registration free? Yes — there is no government fee. Professional fees apply only if you engage someone to handle it.
Can I have one GST registration for multiple states? No — registration is state-wise. Operations in multiple states require a registration in each.
What if I cross the threshold mid-year? You must apply within 30 days of becoming liable. Tax applies from the date of liability, so delay creates exposure.
Can registration be cancelled if I close the business? Yes — through a cancellation application, after filing a final return (GSTR-10).
This article is for general information only and is not professional advice. Thresholds and procedures change — verify your specific position with us before acting.