How to Get GST Number – Step-by-Step Registration Guide

Ramesh opened a small online jewellery store from his Mumbai apartment, but soon received a customer request: ‘Please share your GST number.’ Confused, he googled ‘how to get GST number’ but found inconsistent results. 

With sales reaching ₹5,00,000 in just three months, Ramesh realised that not having a GST number could cost him future business opportunities and credibility. If you have been in Ramesh’s shoes, this blog will guide you step by step on how to get your GST number and avoid missing out on potential profits.

Getting a GST number is a game-changer for any Indian entrepreneur. Whether rocking a street-side shop or slaying online sales, a Goods and Services Tax registration gives your business the credibility it deserves, keeps you on the right side of the law, and unlocks some pretty sweet tax benefits. Ready to level up? Getting a GST number is your first step!

What Is a GST Number and Who Needs It?

The Goods and Services Tax number is a unique 15-digit identifier issued by the Indian government. Every business with an annual turnover above ₹40,00,000 (₹20,00,000 for services) must register.

But registration isn’t limited to large firms. Small vendors, freelancers, and online sellers often register voluntarily to claim input tax credit and reach more customers.

Example:
 

 Priya, a freelance designer from Bangalore, earned ₹22 lakh in the financial year. Though under the threshold, she registered to issue professional tax invoices and expand her clientele.

"Chhoti soch nahi, bada soch ke business karo!"

Why You Should Learn How to Get GST Number?

Here are three solid reasons:

Calculation Example:

Let us say your annual business purchases total ₹5,00,000, and the average Goods and Services Tax rate is 18%.
 That is ₹90,000 paid in tax. If you are registered, you can claim this back.

Without registration:
 Total cost = ₹5,00,000 + ₹90,000 = ₹5,90,000

With registration:
 Total cost = ₹5,00,000 (₹90,000 claimed as input credit)

Saving = ₹90,000 annually

Now imagine the savings over five years: ₹90,000 x 5 = ₹4,50,000

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Get GST Number in India

Step 1: Visit the GST Portal

Go to the official Goods and Services Tax portal (https://www.gst.gov.in/).

Step 2: Click on 'Services' and Choose 'New Registration'

Under the ‘Taxpayer’ tab, select ‘New Registration’.

Step 3: Enter Basic Details

Provide your legal name (as per PAN), email address, and mobile number. A One-Time Password will be sent for verification.

Step 4: Generate a Temporary Reference Number

After verification, a Temporary Reference Number is generated. Use this to proceed to the second part of the form.

Step 5: Fill the GST REG-01 Form

You will be asked to enter business details including:

• Legal name of business
  
  
• Type of business (proprietorship, partnership, etc.)
  
  
• PAN number
  
  
• Address proof
  
  
• Bank account information
  
  
• Nature of goods or services
  
  

"Bina GST number ke, na kaam chalega na sapna poora hoga!"

Documents Required to Get GST Number

sure all documents are clearly scanned and readable. Illegible uploads lead to rejection.

Verification and Approval Timeline

After submission, authorities typically verify documents within 7 working days. If clarification is needed, they issue GST REG-03.

Once verified, you receive your GST number via email and SMS.

"GST number mil gaya toh darna kya!"

Real-Life Use Cases

1. Karan’s Textile Shop in Surat:
 Karan sold ₹55,00,000 worth of cotton fabrics annually. By registering for GST, he issued compliant invoices and claimed ₹3 lakh in input credit yearly.

2. Meera’s Homemade Pickle Business:
 Though earning just ₹18,00,000 annually, Meera voluntarily registered. It helped her sell through D2C platforms like BigBasket and JioMart.

3. Arvind’s IT Consultancy:
 Arvind offered IT services to overseas clients. With GST number, he filed for zero-rated export invoices and claimed refunds under Integrated Goods and Services Tax.

Common Mistakes to Avoid While Getting a GST Number

• Submitting mismatched names between PAN and application form
  
  
• Using mobile numbers or emails that you cannot access
  
  
• Uploading expired address proofs
  
  
• Selecting incorrect business category
  
  

Tip: Always double-check each field before submitting. Even a minor mismatch can delay your registration by weeks.

"Galti se mat bharna, varna phir se bharna padega!"

After Registration: What’s Next?

Once you receive the GST number, you must:

• Display it at your place of business
  
  
• Update invoices with the GSTIN
  
  
• File monthly or quarterly returns (GSTR-1, GSTR-3B)
  
  
• Maintain records of purchases and sales for at least six years
  
  

Failing to file returns can result in late fees of ₹50 to ₹200 per day.

Penalty Calculation Example:

Missed returns for 6 months (180 days):
 ₹200 x 180 = ₹36,000 (maximum per return type)

Conclusion

Knowing How to get GST number is no longer just a bureaucratic task. It is a badge of credibility, a gateway to wider markets, and a tool to optimise tax savings.

Thousands of entrepreneurs across India, from Kashmir to Kanyakumari, have already benefited by embracing formal compliance. Whether you run a fashion boutique, sell art, offer software, or export spices, getting a GST number is a wise step forward.

"Apna GST number lo, aur business ko global banao!"

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What is the cost to apply for a GST number?
 A: Applying for a Goods and Services Tax number is completely free on the government portal. Beware of agents charging unnecessary fees.

Q2: Can a person without a business still apply for a GST number?
 A: No. The applicant must have a business or be planning to start one, as business details are mandatory in the application.

Q3: Is it compulsory to have a business bank account to get a GST number?
 A: Yes, a bank account in the name of the business is required. The account must be active and match the name provided during registration.

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