{"id":2809,"date":"2026-09-26T17:03:26","date_gmt":"2026-09-26T17:03:26","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/?p=2809"},"modified":"2026-09-26T18:13:08","modified_gmt":"2026-09-26T18:13:08","slug":"gstin-meaning-format-and-registration","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/gstin-meaning-format-and-registration\/","title":{"rendered":"GSTIN Explained: Meaning, Format, Registration and How to Check"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">With the growing number of businesses, online sellers, startups and service providers in India, keeping business and tax records accurate has become vital. As GST compliance has become closely connected with everyday business activities, the GSTIN (<span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Goods and Services Tax Identification Number<\/span> )has become an important reference point for businesses during invoicing, tax filing, verification and other transactions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Knowing how GSTIN works for businesses, its registration, format, status and verification can help businesses maintain accurate records and avoid common compliance mistakes and penalties.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_87 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/gstin-meaning-format-and-registration\/#What_is_GSTIN\" >What is GSTIN?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/gstin-meaning-format-and-registration\/#Understanding_the_GST_Number_Format_15-Digit_GSTIN_Structure_Explained\" >Understanding the GST Number Format: 15-Digit GSTIN Structure Explained&nbsp;<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/gstin-meaning-format-and-registration\/#Example_of_a_GSTIN_Structure\" >Example of a GSTIN Structure<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/gstin-meaning-format-and-registration\/#Who_Needs_a_GSTIN_Number_in_India_Eligibility_and_Turnover_Threshold\" >Who Needs a GSTIN Number in India? Eligibility and Turnover Threshold&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/gstin-meaning-format-and-registration\/#What_are_the_Different_GSTIN_Status_How_to_Check_It\" >What are the Different GSTIN Status? How to Check It?&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/gstin-meaning-format-and-registration\/#What_are_the_Benefits_of_Obtaining_a_Goods_and_Service_Tax_Identification_Number\" >What are the Benefits of Obtaining a Goods and Service Tax Identification Number?&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/gstin-meaning-format-and-registration\/#What_is_the_Difference_Between_Regular_GSTIN_and_Composition_GSTIN\" >What is the Difference Between Regular GSTIN and Composition GSTIN?&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/gstin-meaning-format-and-registration\/#What_is_the_Difference_Between_GSTIN_and_UIN\" >What is the Difference Between GSTIN and UIN?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/gstin-meaning-format-and-registration\/#How_to_Apply_for_a_GSTIN\" >How to Apply for a GSTIN?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/gstin-meaning-format-and-registration\/#What_Documents_are_Required_to_Obtain_a_GSTIN\" >What Documents are Required to Obtain a GSTIN?&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/gstin-meaning-format-and-registration\/#Can_You_Hold_Multiple_GSTINs_under_one_PAN\" >Can You Hold Multiple GSTINs under one PAN?&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/gstin-meaning-format-and-registration\/#How_to_Verify_a_GSTIN\" >How to Verify a GSTIN?&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/gstin-meaning-format-and-registration\/#Why_Verifying_a_GST_Number_before_every_Transaction_is_Important\" >Why Verifying a GST Number before every Transaction is Important?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/gstin-meaning-format-and-registration\/#How_to_AmendUpdate_Your_GSTIN_Details\" >How to Amend\/Update Your GSTIN Details?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/gstin-meaning-format-and-registration\/#How_to_Search_for_GSTIN_using_PAN\" >How to Search for GSTIN using PAN?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/gstin-meaning-format-and-registration\/#What_is_a_Temporary_GSTIN\" >What is a Temporary GSTIN?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/gstin-meaning-format-and-registration\/#How_to_Generate_a_Temporary_GSTIN_ID\" >How to Generate a Temporary GSTIN ID?&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/gstin-meaning-format-and-registration\/#Is_GSTIN_and_GSTN_the_same_thing\" >Is GSTIN and GSTN the same thing?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/gstin-meaning-format-and-registration\/#What_is_the_Cost_for_Obtaining_a_GSTIN\" >What is the Cost for Obtaining a GSTIN?&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/gstin-meaning-format-and-registration\/#What_is_the_Validity_Period_for_GSTIN\" >What is the Validity Period for GSTIN?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-21\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/gstin-meaning-format-and-registration\/#Can_your_GSTIN_Get_Cancelled_or_Suspended\" >Can your GSTIN Get Cancelled or Suspended?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-22\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/gstin-meaning-format-and-registration\/#How_Can_You_Reactivate_a_Cancelled_GSTIN\" >How Can You Reactivate a Cancelled GSTIN?&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-23\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/gstin-meaning-format-and-registration\/#How_to_Identify_a_Fake_GSTIN\" >How to Identify a Fake GSTIN?&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-24\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/gstin-meaning-format-and-registration\/#How_to_File_a_Complaint_Against_a_forged_or_fake_GST_Number\" >How to File a Complaint Against a forged or fake GST Number?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-25\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/gstin-meaning-format-and-registration\/#What_are_the_Penalties_for_Operating_Without_a_GSTIN\" >What are the Penalties for Operating Without a GSTIN?&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-26\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/gstin-meaning-format-and-registration\/#What_are_the_Common_Mistakes_you_should_Avoid_while_Applying_for_a_GSTIN\" >What are the Common Mistakes you should Avoid while Applying for a GSTIN?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-27\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/gstin-meaning-format-and-registration\/#Frequently_Asked_Questions\" >Frequently Asked Questions<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_is_GSTIN\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">What is GSTIN?<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">GSTIN stands for Goods and Services Tax Identification Number. It is a unique 15-digit identification number assigned to every taxpayer registered under the Goods and Services Tax (GST) system in India. It is issued by the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gstn.org.in\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Goods and Services Tax Network (GSTN)<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> on behalf of the government after successful <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/gst-registration\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">GST registration<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">It is used to identify a registered business or taxpayer for GST-related transactions, including issuing tax invoices, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/gst-filing\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">filing GST returns<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">, claiming input tax credit and paying GST. A business may have separate GSTINs for different states or Union Territories where it is registered.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Understanding_the_GST_Number_Format_15-Digit_GSTIN_Structure_Explained\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Understanding the GST Number Format: 15-Digit GSTIN Structure Explained&nbsp;<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">A Goods and Services Tax Identification Number is a unique 15-digit alphanumeric number assigned to every registered taxpayer under the GST regime in India. It follows a standardised format that contains information about the taxpayer\u2019s state or Union Territory, PAN, registration number, default character and checksum digit. Understanding this structure can help businesses verify whether a GSTIN has been entered correctly and identify basic registration details from the number itself.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><b>The 15-character goods and service tax identification number is structured as follows:<\/b><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><b>11AAAAA1111A1Z1<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table table table-striped is-style-stripes\"><table><tbody><tr><td><b>Position&nbsp;<\/b><\/td><td><b>Details&nbsp;<\/b><\/td><td><b>Explanation<\/b><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">1-2<\/span><\/td><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">State\/UT Code&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The first two digits represent the state or Union Territory where the taxpayer is registered.&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">3-12<\/span><\/td><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">PAN<\/span><\/td><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The next 10 characters correspond to the taxpayer\u2019s PAN.&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">13<\/span><\/td><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Entity\/Registration Number&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">This digit indicates the number of registrations held by the same PAN within that state or Union Territory.&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">14<\/span><\/td><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Default Character<\/span><\/td><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The fourteenth character is generally <\/span><b>\u201cZ\u201d<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> as prescribed in the GSTIN format.&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">15<\/span><\/td><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Check Code&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The final character is a Check code used for validating the GSTIN. It can either be a number or a letter.&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Example_of_a_GSTIN_Structure\"><\/span><b>Example of a GSTIN Structure<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Consider a hypothetical GSTIN:<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><b>07ABCDE1234F1Z5<\/b><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Its structure can be understood as:<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">07 \u2013 State\/UT code<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">ABCDE1234F \u2013 PAN<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">1 \u2013 Registration number<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Z \u2013 Default character<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">5 \u2013 Checksum digit<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Thus, the 15 characters of a GSTIN are not randomly assigned. Each part follows a prescribed structure and serves a specific identification or validation purpose.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"342\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/ChatGPT-Image-Sep-26-2026-11_19_14-PM-1024x342.webp\" alt=\"Understanding the GST Number Format\" class=\"wp-image-2845 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/ChatGPT-Image-Sep-26-2026-11_19_14-PM-1024x342.webp 1024w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/ChatGPT-Image-Sep-26-2026-11_19_14-PM-300x100.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/ChatGPT-Image-Sep-26-2026-11_19_14-PM-768x257.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/ChatGPT-Image-Sep-26-2026-11_19_14-PM-1536x513.webp 1536w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/ChatGPT-Image-Sep-26-2026-11_19_14-PM-2048x684.webp 2048w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/ChatGPT-Image-Sep-26-2026-11_19_14-PM-1200x401.webp 1200w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/ChatGPT-Image-Sep-26-2026-11_19_14-PM-1980x662.webp 1980w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1024px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1024\/342;\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Who_Needs_a_GSTIN_Number_in_India_Eligibility_and_Turnover_Threshold\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Who Needs a GSTIN Number in India? Eligibility and Turnover Threshold&nbsp;<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">A goods and services tax identification number is required for businesses and individuals who are liable to register under the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/gst-filing\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Goods and Services Tax (GST)<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> law. The requirement depends on factors such as annual turnover, the nature of supplies, and certain specific business activities. Key categories include:&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table table table-striped is-style-stripes\"><table><tbody><tr><td><b>Category&nbsp;<\/b><\/td><td><b>Applicable Turnover\/Condition&nbsp;<\/b><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Service Providers for General Category States&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">When the turnover exceeds \u20b920 lakh in a financial year<\/span><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Service Provider in Special Category States (Group A: Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Sikkim, Uttarakhand, Puducherry)&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">When the turnover exceeds \u20b910 lakh in a financial year<\/span><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Service Provider in Special Category States&nbsp; (Group B: Manipur, Mizoram, Nagaland, Tripura)&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">When the turnover exceeds \u20b910 lakh in a financial year<\/span><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Suppliers of Goods in General States&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">When the turnover exceeds \u20b940 lakh in a financial year, subject to applicable conditions&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Supplier of Goods in Special category states (Group A: Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Sikkim, Uttarakhand, Puducherry)&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">When the turnover exceeds \u20b920 lakh in a financial year, subject to applicable conditions&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Supplier of Goods in Special category states (Group B: Manipur, Mizoram, Nagaland, Tripura)&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">When the turnover exceeds \u20b910 lakh in a financial year, subject to applicable conditions&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Inter-State Suppliers, E-commerce Businesses, Casual Taxable Persons,&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">GST registration may be required regardless of turnover&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_are_the_Different_GSTIN_Status_How_to_Check_It\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">What are the Different GSTIN Status? How to Check It?&nbsp;<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">A goods and services tax identification number can have different statuses depending on whether the registration is currently valid, temporarily suspended, cancelled or otherwise inactive.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table table table-striped is-style-stripes\"><table><tbody><tr><td><b>GSTIN Status<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><td><b>Meaning<\/b><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Active<\/span><\/td><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The GST registration is valid and currently active.&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Suspended&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The GST registration has been temporarily suspended, generally while a cancellation or other proceeding is under process.&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Canceled<\/span><\/td><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The GST registration has been cancelled and is no longer active.&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Inactive&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The GSTIN is not currently active on the GST Portal. In certain cases, a cancelled registration may show as inactive&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Expired<\/span><\/td><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The registration has expired where the GST registration is subject to a specified period of validity, such as certain temporary registrations.&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><b>How to Check GSTIN Status Online?<\/b><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">You can verify a goods and service tax identification number directly through the GST Portal without logging in. Follow these steps:<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Open the official <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/services.gst.gov.in\/services\/login\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">GST Portal<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">. Click Search Taxpayer on the GST Portal homepage.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"468\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-23-220217-1024x468.webp\" alt=\"GST Portal\" class=\"wp-image-2812 lazyload\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1024px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1024\/468;aspect-ratio:2.188679245283019;width:580px;height:auto\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-23-220217-1024x468.webp 1024w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-23-220217-300x137.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-23-220217-768x351.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-23-220217-1200x549.webp 1200w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-23-220217.webp 1509w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"2\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Choose the option to search using the GSTIN\/UIN.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"470\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-23-220154-1024x470.webp\" alt=\"option to search using the GSTIN\/UIN\" class=\"wp-image-2814 lazyload\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1024px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1024\/470;aspect-ratio:2.180451127819549;width:580px;height:auto\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-23-220154-1024x470.webp 1024w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-23-220154-300x138.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-23-220154-768x352.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-23-220154-1200x551.webp 1200w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-23-220154.webp 1506w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"3\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Enter the 15-digit GSTIN you want to verify.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"446\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-23-220122-1024x446.webp\" alt=\"the 15-digit GSTIN\" class=\"wp-image-2815 lazyload\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1024px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1024\/446;aspect-ratio:2.292490118577075;width:580px;height:auto\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-23-220122-1024x446.webp 1024w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-23-220122-300x131.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-23-220122-768x335.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-23-220122-1200x523.webp 1200w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-23-220122.webp 1498w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"4\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Type the characters shown in the CAPTCHA box and click on \u201cSearch\u201d<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"457\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-23-220357-1024x457.webp\" alt=\"Enter CAPTCHA \" class=\"wp-image-2816 lazyload\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1024px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1024\/457;aspect-ratio:2.2393822393822393;width:580px;height:auto\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-23-220357-1024x457.webp 1024w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-23-220357-300x134.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-23-220357-768x343.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-23-220357-1200x536.webp 1200w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-23-220357.webp 1510w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"5\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> The taxpayer&#8217;s GSTIN status will be displayed along with other registration details.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> You can also check the legal name, trade name, registration date, business constitution, principal place of business and, where applicable, cancellation date and return-filing details.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_are_the_Benefits_of_Obtaining_a_Goods_and_Service_Tax_Identification_Number\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">What are the Benefits of Obtaining a Goods and Service Tax Identification Number?&nbsp;<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/ChatGPT-Image-Sep-26-2026-11_11_34-PM-683x1024.webp\" alt=\"Benefits of Obtaining a Goods and Service Tax Identification Number\" class=\"wp-image-2840 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/ChatGPT-Image-Sep-26-2026-11_11_34-PM-683x1024.webp 683w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/ChatGPT-Image-Sep-26-2026-11_11_34-PM-200x300.webp 200w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/ChatGPT-Image-Sep-26-2026-11_11_34-PM-768x1152.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/ChatGPT-Image-Sep-26-2026-11_11_34-PM.webp 1024w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 683px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 683\/1024;\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Obtaining a goods and service tax identification number provides businesses with a recognised GST registration and enables them to comply with applicable tax requirements. It can also support business transactions, tax credit claims and wider market opportunities.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><b>1. Legal Recognition:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> A goods and service tax identification number identifies a business as a registered taxpayer under the GST framework and provides formal recognition for conducting taxable business activities.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><b>2. Input Tax Credit:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Registered businesses can claim eligible input tax credit on purchases and expenses, helping reduce the overall GST liability on taxable supplies.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><b>3. Inter-State Business:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> GST registration enables eligible businesses to undertake inter-State taxable transactions while complying with applicable GST registration and tax requirements.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><b>4. Business Credibility:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Displaying a valid GST number on invoices and business documents can help establish greater transparency and credibility with customers, suppliers and business partners.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><b>5. E-Commerce Opportunities: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">A GST number can help businesses meet applicable GST requirements when selling through e-commerce platforms or undertaking transactions covered by specific GST provisions.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><b>6. GST-Compliant Invoicing:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Registered taxpayers can issue GST tax invoices containing prescribed details, making transactions more transparent and supporting proper accounting and tax reporting.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><b>7. Access to Business Opportunities:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> GST registration may be required by certain customers, organisations or businesses before entering into transactions, particularly where GST-compliant invoicing and documentation are expected.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><b>8. Simplified Tax Compliance:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> A GST number provides access to the GST Portal for filing returns, paying applicable taxes and completing other GST-related compliance requirements online.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_is_the_Difference_Between_Regular_GSTIN_and_Composition_GSTIN\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">What is the Difference Between Regular GSTIN and Composition GSTIN?&nbsp;<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">A Regular GSTIN and a Composition GSTIN both identify businesses registered under GST, but the applicable tax scheme, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/gst-annual-return-gstr-9\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">annual return<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">, compliance requirements and input tax credit rules differ. Here are the key differences between the two:&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table table table-striped is-style-stripes\"><table><tbody><tr><td><b>Basis&nbsp;<\/b><\/td><td><b>Regular GSTIN&nbsp;<\/b><\/td><td><b>Composition GSTIN&nbsp;<\/b><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Tax Scheme&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Business operates under the regular GST scheme and pays tax at the applicable rate on taxable supplies.&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Business opts for the composition scheme and pays tax at the prescribed composition rate.&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Turnover Limit&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">No composition-specific turnover ceiling applies; registration is governed by applicable GST provisions.&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Subject to the prescribed turnover limit for composition taxpayers.&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Input Tax Credit (ITC)&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Eligible businesses can generally claim input tax credit on qualifying purchases, subject to GST rules.&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Composition taxpayers cannot claim input tax credit on their purchases.&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Tax Collection&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Eligible registered taxpayers can collect GST from customers and issue tax invoices.&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Composition taxpayers generally cannot collect GST separately from customers.&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Tax Invoice&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Can issue a GST tax invoice showing applicable GST separately.&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Issues a Bill of Supply instead of a regular GST tax invoice.&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Inter-State Supplies&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Generally permitted, subject to applicable GST provisions.&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Generally restricted from making inter-State outward supplies of goods, subject to applicable provisions and exceptions.&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_is_the_Difference_Between_GSTIN_and_UIN\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">What is the Difference Between GSTIN and UIN?<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">GSTIN and UIN are both identification numbers used under the GST framework, but they serve different categories of entities and purposes. It is generally issued to registered taxpayers, while UIN is assigned to specified entities such as embassies, consulates and certain international organisations. Here is the key difference between the two:<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table table table-striped is-style-stripes\"><table><tbody><tr><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Basis&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">GSTIN<\/span><\/td><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">UIN<\/span><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Full Form<\/span><\/td><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Goods and Services Tax Identification Number&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Unique Identity Number&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Issued To&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Registered taxpayer under GST<\/span><\/td><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Specified entities such as UN specialised agencies, notified multilateral financial institutions, foreign embassies and consulates&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Purpose&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Used for GST registration, tax compliance and identification of registered taxpayers&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Primarily enables eligible entities to claim a refund of GST paid on inward supplies&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Taxpayer Status&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Identifies a registered person under GST&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">UIN holders are given a special status and do not fall within the definition of a \u201cregistered person\u201d&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Application Form&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">GST registration is generally applied for through the prescribed <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/gst-registration-for-foreigners\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">GST registration process<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">UIN is applied for electronically in FORM GST REG-13&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_to_Apply_for_a_GSTIN\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">How to Apply for a GSTIN?<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">A goods and service tax identification number can be obtained by applying for GST registration through the official GST Portal. The registration process involves entering business and taxpayer details, completing verification, uploading required documents and submitting the application electronically.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><b>Step-by-Step Process to Apply for goods and service tax identification number<\/b><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Go to the official GST Portal&nbsp;<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"456\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-23-224947-1024x456.webp\" alt=\"official GST Portal\" class=\"wp-image-2818 lazyload\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1024px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1024\/456;aspect-ratio:2.248062015503876;width:580px;height:auto\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-23-224947-1024x456.webp 1024w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-23-224947-300x133.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-23-224947-768x342.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-23-224947-1200x534.webp 1200w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-23-224947.webp 1515w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"2\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Go to Services \u2192 Registration \u2192 New Registration or click Register Now.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"469\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-23-225023-1024x469.webp\" alt=\"New Registration for Goods and Services Tax Identification Number\" class=\"wp-image-2819 lazyload\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1024px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1024\/469;aspect-ratio:2.180451127819549;width:580px;height:auto\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-23-225023-1024x469.webp 1024w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-23-225023-300x137.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-23-225023-768x352.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-23-225023-1200x550.webp 1200w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-23-225023.webp 1517w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"3\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Under the I am a option, select Taxpayer and choose the relevant State\/UT and District, provide the legal name of the business as per PAN and enter the applicable PAN details.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"472\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-23-225233-1024x472.webp\" alt=\"Enter details for GSTIN registration\" class=\"wp-image-2820 lazyload\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1024px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1024\/472;aspect-ratio:2.1722846441947565;width:580px;height:auto\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-23-225233-1024x472.webp 1024w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-23-225233-300x138.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-23-225233-768x354.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-23-225233-1200x553.webp 1200w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-23-225233.webp 1512w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"5\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Enter the email address and Indian mobile number of the Primary Authorised Signatory.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"472\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-23-225348-1024x472.webp\" alt=\"details for GSTIN registration\" class=\"wp-image-2821 lazyload\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1024px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1024\/472;aspect-ratio:2.1722846441947565;width:580px;height:auto\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-23-225348-1024x472.webp 1024w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-23-225348-300x138.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-23-225348-768x354.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-23-225348-1200x553.webp 1200w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-23-225348.webp 1516w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"6\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Verify the mobile number and email address using the separate OTPs received from the GST Portal.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> After successful verification, a Temporary Reference Number (TRN) is generated. Save this TRN for completing the application.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Return to New Registration, select the TRN option, enter the TRN, email address and CAPTCHA, and complete OTP verification.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"467\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-23-225504-1024x467.webp\" alt=\"Temporary Reference Number (TRN)\" class=\"wp-image-2822 lazyload\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1024px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1024\/467;aspect-ratio:2.188679245283019;width:580px;height:auto\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-23-225504-1024x467.webp 1024w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-23-225504-300x137.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-23-225504-768x351.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-23-225504-1200x548.webp 1200w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-23-225504.webp 1518w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"9\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Open the saved application and enter the required information across the relevant tabs, including Business Details, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/director-appointment-resignation\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Promoters\/Partners<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">, Authorised Signatory, Principal Place of Business, Goods and Services, State-Specific Information and Aadhaar Authentication.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Upload the documents and photographs requested for the applicable sections of the registration application.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Verify the entered information and submit the application electronically using the applicable DSC, E-Signature or EVC. DSC is mandatory for <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/one-person-company\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">companies<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> and <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/llp-registration\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">LLPs<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> After successful submission, an Application Reference Number (ARN) is generated and sent to the registered email address and mobile number. You can track your application status through this ARN.&nbsp;<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"468\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-23-225926-1024x468.webp\" alt=\"Application Reference Number (ARN) for GSTIN\" class=\"wp-image-2823 lazyload\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1024px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1024\/468;aspect-ratio:2.188679245283019;width:580px;height:auto\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-23-225926-1024x468.webp 1024w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-23-225926-300x137.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-23-225926-768x351.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-23-225926-1200x548.webp 1200w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-23-225926.webp 1513w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"13\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Once the registration is approved, the goods and service tax identification number and registration credentials are provided to the taxpayer.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Documents_are_Required_to_Obtain_a_GSTIN\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">What Documents are Required to Obtain a GSTIN?&nbsp;<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Here is a checklist of the documents required to obtain a goods and services tax identification number or GST Number:<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Partnership Deed<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Trust Deed<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Certificate of Incorporation<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Proof of Business Constitution<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Certificate of Establishment<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Registration Certificate<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Stakeholder Photograph<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Authorised Signatory Photograph<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Authorisation Letter<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Board Resolution and Acceptance<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Property Tax Receipt<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Municipal Khata Copy<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Electricity Bill\/Rent or Lease Agreement<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Consent Letter<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Government-Issued Document\/Certificate<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Additional Place Property Tax Receipt\/Additional Place Municipal Khata<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Additional Place Electricity Bill\/Additional Place Rent Agreement<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Supporting Clarification Documents<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Can_You_Hold_Multiple_GSTINs_under_one_PAN\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Can You Hold Multiple GSTINs under one PAN?&nbsp;<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Yes, a person or business can hold multiple goods and services tax identification numbers under the same PAN, particularly when it has business operations in more than one State or Union Territory. Under GST, registration is generally state-specific, so a separate GST number is required for each State or Union Territory where registration is applicable.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">A business may also obtain separate registrations within the same State or Union Territory for different places of business, subject to the applicable conditions under <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/services.gst.gov.in\/services\/gstlaw\/gstlawlist\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">GST law<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">. Each goods and service tax identification number is linked to the same PAN but functions as a separate GST registration for compliance purposes.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Therefore, businesses operating across multiple locations should ensure that the appropriate GST registrations are obtained and that returns, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/professional-tax-filing\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">tax payments<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> and other compliance requirements are fulfilled separately for each applicable goods and service tax identification number.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_to_Verify_a_GSTIN\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">How to Verify a GSTIN?&nbsp;<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">You can verify a goods and services tax identification number online through the GST Portal&#8217;s Search Taxpayer facility. The service allows you to check the authenticity, registration status and other basic details of a GST number without logging in.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><b>Step-by-Step Process to Verify a GSTIN<\/b><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">1. Open the official GST Portal, click \u201cSearch Taxpayer\u201d on the GST Portal homepage and select the option to search using GSTIN\/UIN.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-large wp-image-2824 lazyload\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-23-230855-1024x466.webp\" alt=\"Official Goods and Services Tax Identification Number portal\" width=\"580\" height=\"264\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-23-230855-1024x466.webp 1024w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-23-230855-300x137.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-23-230855-768x350.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-23-230855-1200x546.webp 1200w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-23-230855.webp 1518w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 580px) 100vw, 580px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 580px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 580\/264;\" \/>2. Enter the 15-digit GSTIN you want to verify, type the characters displayed in the CAPTCHA box and click the \u201cSEARCH\u201d button to submit the details.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"466\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-23-231012-1024x466.webp\" alt=\"15-digit GSTIN\" class=\"wp-image-2825 lazyload\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1024px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1024\/466;aspect-ratio:2.196969696969697;width:580px;height:auto\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-23-231012-1024x466.webp 1024w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-23-231012-300x137.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-23-231012-768x350.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-23-231012-1200x546.webp 1200w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-23-231012.webp 1514w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">3. The portal will display details such as the legal name, trade name, registration date, business constitution and principal place of business.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_Verifying_a_GST_Number_before_every_Transaction_is_Important\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Why Verifying a GST Number before every Transaction is Important?<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"1024\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/ChatGPT-Image-Sep-26-2026-11_10_37-PM-1024x1024.webp\" alt=\"Verifying a GST Number\" class=\"wp-image-2842 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/ChatGPT-Image-Sep-26-2026-11_10_37-PM-1024x1024.webp 1024w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/ChatGPT-Image-Sep-26-2026-11_10_37-PM-300x300.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/ChatGPT-Image-Sep-26-2026-11_10_37-PM-150x150.webp 150w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/ChatGPT-Image-Sep-26-2026-11_10_37-PM-768x768.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/ChatGPT-Image-Sep-26-2026-11_10_37-PM-1200x1200.webp 1200w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/ChatGPT-Image-Sep-26-2026-11_10_37-PM.webp 1254w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1024px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1024\/1024;\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Verifying a GST number before a transaction helps businesses confirm the supplier\u2019s registration details and maintain accurate GST records. It can also support proper invoicing and compliance.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Verifying GST number confirms that the supplier is registered under GST and that the provided registration details are valid.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Checking GST number helps ensure invoices contain accurate taxpayer information, reducing errors in accounting and GST records.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Correct GST number details help businesses maintain proper documentation when claiming eligible input tax credit on purchases.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Verifying registration details before transactions can help businesses avoid discrepancies that may create GST compliance difficulties later.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">GST number verification allows businesses to cross-check the legal name, trade name and registration status before completing transactions.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Checking the GST Portal can identify GSTINs that are cancelled, suspended or otherwise not currently active.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_to_AmendUpdate_Your_GSTIN_Details\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">How to Amend\/Update Your GSTIN Details?<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Registered taxpayers can update their GST registration details using the following steps:&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Go to the official GST Portal and log in using your valid username and password.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">After logging in, go to Services \u2192 Registration, and choose either:<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Amendment of Registration Core Fields, or<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Amendment of Registration Non-Core Fields<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Select the option according to the type of detail you want to update.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"3\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> The amendment application will display different tabs. Select the tab containing the details you want to change and edit the required information.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Provide the new or corrected information in the applicable fields. For core amendments, make sure the required supporting details or documents are provided where applicable.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> After making the required changes, click Save &amp; Continue and go to the Verification tab, select the verification checkbox, choose the name of the authorised signatory and enter the place.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Authenticate the application using DSC or EVC, as applicable, and submit it on the GST Portal.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> After successful submission, an acknowledgement is generated. The Application Reference Number (ARN) is sent to the registered email address and mobile number.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">For core amendments, the application is subject to approval by the tax official. Non-core amendments are automatically approved after successful filing and do not require tax-officer processing.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_to_Search_for_GSTIN_using_PAN\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">How to Search for GSTIN using PAN?<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">To search for GSTIN or GST number using PAN, you need to follow these steps:&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Visit the GST Portal. On the GST Portal homepage, select \u201cSearch Taxpayer\u201d and choose the \u201cSearch by PAN\u201d option to find GST registrations associated with a particular PAN.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"475\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-23-232439-1024x475.webp\" alt=\"GST Portal homepage\" class=\"wp-image-2827 lazyload\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1024px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1024\/475;aspect-ratio:2.1561338289962824;width:580px;height:auto\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-23-232439-1024x475.webp 1024w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-23-232439-300x139.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-23-232439-768x356.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-23-232439-1200x556.webp 1200w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-23-232439.webp 1504w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"2\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Enter the Permanent Account Number (PAN) for which you want to search for GST registrations. Enter the CAPTCHA and click \u201cSearch\u201d<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"464\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-23-232506-1024x464.webp\" alt=\"Permanent Account Number (PAN) for which you want to search for GST registrations\" class=\"wp-image-2828 lazyload\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1024px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1024\/464;aspect-ratio:2.20532319391635;width:580px;height:auto\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-23-232506-1024x464.webp 1024w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-23-232506-300x136.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-23-232506-768x348.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-23-232506-1200x544.webp 1200w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-23-232506.webp 1506w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"3\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> The portal displays the GST registrations available against the entered PAN. You can check the GSTINs associated with that PAN.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> If there is no GST registration available against the entered PAN, the portal displays \u201cNo records found.\u201d<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_is_a_Temporary_GSTIN\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">What is a Temporary GSTIN?<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">A temporary ID in GST is a provisional identification number given to unregistered people or entities so they can use specific portal features without a permanent GST Registration.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><b>Who Uses a Temporary ID?<\/b><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Individuals or businesses that do not have or need a permanent GST registration.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Small sellers, home businesses, and non-resident taxpayers.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Tax officers who issue a temporary ID (suo motu) when an eligible person fails to register.&nbsp;<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><b>What Functions can you do with a Temporary GSTIN?<\/b><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">With a temporary ID on the GST Portal, you can:<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">File an application for a refund.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Apply for an advance ruling.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Apply to supply goods through e-commerce operators.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Make specific one-off tax payments.&nbsp;<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_to_Generate_a_Temporary_GSTIN_ID\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">How to Generate a Temporary GSTIN ID?&nbsp;<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">To generate a temporary user GSTIN ID on the GST portal as an unregistered person (for refunds or advance rulings), follow these steps:&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Go to the Official GST Portal. Click Services &gt; User Services &gt; Generate User ID for Unregistered Applicant.&nbsp;<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"464\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-24-115144-1024x464.webp\" alt=\"Official GSTIN Portal\" class=\"wp-image-2829 lazyload\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1024px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1024\/464;aspect-ratio:2.20532319391635;width:580px;height:auto\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-24-115144-1024x464.webp 1024w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-24-115144-300x136.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-24-115144-768x348.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-24-115144-1200x544.webp 1200w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-24-115144.webp 1520w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"2\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Read the warning message and click Yes.&nbsp;<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"470\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-24-120606-1024x470.webp\" alt=\"warning message for GSTIN\" class=\"wp-image-2830 lazyload\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1024px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1024\/470;aspect-ratio:2.180451127819549;width:580px;height:auto\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-24-120606-1024x470.webp 1024w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-24-120606-300x138.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-24-120606-768x352.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-24-120606-1200x551.webp 1200w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-24-120606.webp 1510w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"3\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Select your application category:<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Claiming a refund<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Advance ruling<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Supply to e-commerce operator&nbsp;<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"459\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-24-121257-1024x459.webp\" alt=\"Select your application category\" class=\"wp-image-2831 lazyload\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1024px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1024\/459;aspect-ratio:2.230769230769231;width:580px;height:auto\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-24-121257-1024x459.webp 1024w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-24-121257-300x135.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-24-121257-768x344.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-24-121257-1200x538.webp 1200w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-24-121257.webp 1514w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"4\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Enter your basic details like PAN, email, and mobile number.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"472\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-24-121342-1024x472.webp\" alt=\"Enter your basic details\" class=\"wp-image-2832 lazyload\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1024px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1024\/472;aspect-ratio:2.1722846441947565;width:580px;height:auto\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-24-121342-1024x472.webp 1024w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-24-121342-300x138.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-24-121342-768x354.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-24-121342-1200x553.webp 1200w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-24-121342.webp 1515w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"5\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Provide relevant address and bank details to proceed with verification.&nbsp;<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"469\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-24-121419-1024x469.webp\" alt=\"Provide relevant address and bank details\" class=\"wp-image-2833 lazyload\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1024px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1024\/469;aspect-ratio:2.180451127819549;width:580px;height:auto\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-24-121419-1024x469.webp 1024w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-24-121419-300x137.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-24-121419-768x352.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-24-121419-1200x550.webp 1200w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Screenshot-2026-09-24-121419.webp 1522w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"6\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Complete the OTP verification sent to your mobile and email. Submit the form to receive your temporary user ID.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Is_GSTIN_and_GSTN_the_same_thing\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Is GSTIN and GSTN the same thing?<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">No, GSTIN and GSTN are not the same thing. Although both terms are related to India\u2019s Goods and Services Tax system, they refer to different concepts. It is the unique identification number assigned to a registered taxpayer, while GSTN refers to the technology infrastructure and the organisation that supports the GST system. Understanding the difference helps taxpayers use the correct term when dealing with GST registration, compliance and verification.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table table table-striped is-style-stripes\"><table><tbody><tr><td><b>Basis&nbsp;<\/b><\/td><td><b>GSTIN<\/b><\/td><td><b>GSTN<\/b><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Full Form<\/span><\/td><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Goods and Services Tax Identification Number&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Goods and Services Tax Network&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Meaning<\/span><\/td><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">A unique 15-digit identification number assigned to a registered taxpayer&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">A technology and service infrastructure supporting the GST system&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Purpose&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Identifies a registered taxpayer under GST&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Facilitates GST-related technology and services&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Assigned to<\/span><\/td><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Registered taxpayers&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The GST system\/network&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Format<\/span><\/td><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">15-digit alphanumeric number&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">No taxpayer identification number&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Used For&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Invoices, GST returns, payments and taxpayer verification&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Processing and supporting GST registration, returns and related services&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_is_the_Cost_for_Obtaining_a_GSTIN\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">What is the Cost for Obtaining a GSTIN?&nbsp;<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Obtaining a goods and service tax identification number through the official GST Portal is free of cost. A taxpayer can apply for GST registration online without paying any fee to the government for submitting the application or receiving the goods and service tax identification number. When submitting the application, the taxpayer should review each detail carefully.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_is_the_Validity_Period_for_GSTIN\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">What is the Validity Period for GSTIN?<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">A GSTIN does not have a fixed validity period. Once issued, it generally remains valid as long as the taxpayer\u2019s GST registration is active. It continues to be associated with the taxpayer until the registration is cancelled or surrendered in accordance with GST provisions. For businesses that continue to meet their GST obligations and maintain an active registration, the GST number remains valid without requiring periodic renewal.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Can_your_GSTIN_Get_Cancelled_or_Suspended\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Can your GSTIN Get Cancelled or Suspended?<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Yes, a goods and service tax identification number can be suspended, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/gst-revocation\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">revoked<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">, or cancelled under certain circumstances. GST authorities may suspend a registration during the processing of a cancellation application or where discrepancies, non-compliance, or other grounds under GST law require action.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">A GST registration may also be cancelled if the taxpayer does not conduct business from the registered place, fails to comply with applicable GST provisions, or obtains registration through fraud or misrepresentation.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">A taxpayer can also voluntarily <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/cancel-gst-registration\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">apply for cancellation<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> when eligible. Once a goods and service tax identification number is cancelled, the taxpayer generally cannot use it for taxable business transactions unless the registration is restored or otherwise validly reactivated.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_Can_You_Reactivate_a_Cancelled_GSTIN\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">How Can You Reactivate a Cancelled GSTIN?&nbsp;<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">A cancelled GST number may be reactivated by applying for revocation of cancellation when the registration was cancelled by the tax officer on their own motion. The taxpayer must meet the applicable conditions and resolve the reason for cancellation before applying. Under Section 30 of the CGST Act, the application is generally made within 30 days of receiving the cancellation order, subject to applicable extensions.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_to_Identify_a_Fake_GSTIN\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">How to Identify a Fake GSTIN?&nbsp;<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">A GSTIN can be checked for authenticity through the GST Portal. Simply checking whether a number follows the 15-digit goods and service tax identification number format is not sufficient. You should verify the number against the taxpayer details displayed on the GST Portal.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><b>Steps to Check Whether a GSTIN is Genuine<\/b><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Visit the GST Portal and open the Search Taxpayer option.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Select \u201cSearch by GSTIN\/UIN\u201d and enter the GSTIN provided by the business.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Enter the CAPTCHA displayed on the screen.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Click \u201cSearch\u201d to retrieve the taxpayer&#8217;s details.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Check the GSTIN status shown on the portal. An active registration should correspond with the business claiming to be registered.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Compare the Legal Name and Trade Name displayed on the portal with the details provided by the business.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Verify the Principal Place of Business and other available registration details.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Check the registration date and cancellation details, if applicable.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">If the goods and service tax identification number does not exist on the GST Portal or the displayed details do not match, do not rely on the goods and service tax identification number without further verification. The GST Portal specifically provides this facility to help verify FST number authenticity and avoid fraudulent GSTINs.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_to_File_a_Complaint_Against_a_forged_or_fake_GST_Number\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">How to File a Complaint Against a forged or fake GST Number?<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">If you find that a business is using a forged, fake or fraudulently obtained goods and service tax identification number, you can report it to the GST authorities. The complaint should include accurate details and supporting evidence, such as invoices, GSTIN details, business information and relevant communications.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><b>Steps to File a Complaint<\/b><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Verify the goods and service tax identification number using the Search Taxpayer facility on the GST Portal and note the taxpayer details displayed.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Collect supporting evidence, such as the invoice containing the suspected fake goods and service tax identification number, business name, address, payment details, screenshots and other relevant documents.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Report the suspected fraud to GST authorities. The <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/dggi.cbic.gov.in\/dggi-ui\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Directorate General of GST Intelligence (DGGI)<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> investigates GST evasion, including fake invoicing and fraudulent Input Tax Credit (ITC).<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Use the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/selfservice.gstsystem.in\/ReportIssue.aspx\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">GST grievance mechanism<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> for GST-related complaints or issues. The GST system provides an online grievance facility where users can submit complaints and track their status.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">If your PAN has been misused, you can use the GST Portal&#8217;s facility to report GST registrations obtained using your PAN without your knowledge or consent. Such complaints are forwarded to the relevant jurisdictional officer for further action.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Keep the acknowledgement or complaint reference number after submission so that you can track the complaint and respond to any further requirements.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_are_the_Penalties_for_Operating_Without_a_GSTIN\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">What are the Penalties for Operating Without a GSTIN?&nbsp;<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">A person who is liable to obtain GST registration but carries on taxable business without registering may face penalties under the GST law. The consequences can include payment of the applicable tax, interest and penalty. Under Section 122(1) of the CGST Act, failure to obtain registration when legally required can attract a penalty of \u20b910,000 or an amount equivalent to the tax evaded, whichever is higher.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table table table-striped is-style-stripes\"><table><tbody><tr><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Penalty&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Rs. 10,000 or the tax evaded, whichever is higher, may apply for failure to obtain required registration.&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Tax Liability&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Authorities can assess the GST payable for the period during which the person remained unregistered despite being liable to register&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Interest&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Unpaid taxes accrue interest at 18% per annum under Section 50 of the CGST Act.<\/span><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Confiscation&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">In certain circumstances, taxable goods supplied without applying for registration may be subject to confiscation and penalty under Section 130 of the CGST Act.&nbsp;<\/span><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_are_the_Common_Mistakes_you_should_Avoid_while_Applying_for_a_GSTIN\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">What are the Common Mistakes you should Avoid while Applying for a GSTIN?<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/ChatGPT-Image-Sep-26-2026-11_09_03-PM-1024x576.webp\" alt=\"Common Mistakes you should Avoid while Applying for a GSTIN\" class=\"wp-image-2843 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/ChatGPT-Image-Sep-26-2026-11_09_03-PM-1024x576.webp 1024w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/ChatGPT-Image-Sep-26-2026-11_09_03-PM-300x169.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/ChatGPT-Image-Sep-26-2026-11_09_03-PM-768x432.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/ChatGPT-Image-Sep-26-2026-11_09_03-PM-1536x864.webp 1536w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/ChatGPT-Image-Sep-26-2026-11_09_03-PM-1200x675.webp 1200w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/ChatGPT-Image-Sep-26-2026-11_09_03-PM.webp 1672w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1024px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1024\/576;\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Applying for a goods and service tax identification number requires accurate business, PAN, address and supporting information. Errors or incomplete details can cause delays, clarification requests or rejection of the application. The common mistakes a taxpayer makes include:&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><b> Entering Incorrect PAN Details:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Always enter the correct PAN of the business or applicant. Any mismatch between PAN details and the GST application can delay registration or lead to rejection.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><b> Providing Wrong Business Details:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Ensure the legal name, trade name, business constitution and nature of business are entered accurately and match the supporting documents submitted with the application.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><b> Using Incorrect Address:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Enter the complete principal place of business address correctly. Make sure the address matches the submitted ownership, rent agreement, electricity bill or other supporting documents.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><b> Uploading Incorrect Documents:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Upload clear, valid and relevant documents in the prescribed format. Check every document carefully to ensure it belongs to the applicant and contains consistent information.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><b> Providing Incorrect Contact Details:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Enter an active mobile number and email address belonging to the applicant or authorised person, as these details may be required for OTP verification and GST communications.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><b> Ignoring Application Verification:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Carefully review all information before submitting the application and complete the required verification process. Incorrect or incomplete information can result in clarification requests or processing delays.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><b> Failing to Update Required Information:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Provide accurate details about additional business locations, authorised signatories, bank accounts and business activities wherever applicable to ensure the GST registration remains complete and accurate<\/span>. <\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Frequently_Asked_Questions\"><\/span>Frequently Asked Questions <span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>1. Is GST and GSTIN the same thing?&nbsp;<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">No. GST is the indirect tax system, while GSTIN is the unique 15-digit identification number assigned to registered taxpayers.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>2. Does every business require a GSTIN?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">No. A goods and services tax identification number is required only when a business becomes liable for GST registration or voluntarily chooses to register.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>3. What Happen If a Registered Business dosen\u2019t Apply for a GSTIN?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A business liable for GST registration but operating without it may face tax liability, interest and penalties under applicable GST provisions.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>4. How long does it take to get a goods and services tax identification number?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">After successful verification and approval of the GST registration application, the goods and services tax identification number is issued electronically through the GST Portal.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>5. Can a GSTIN be transferred from one business to another?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">No. A goods and services tax identification number is linked to a specific PAN and state, so it cannot normally be transferred between different businesses.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>6. What is the effect of a change in address or business constitution on GSTIN?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Changes in address or business constitution may require amendment of registration details or, in certain cases, obtaining a new goods and services tax identification number.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>7. Is goods and services tax identification number<\/strong> <strong>mandatory for e-commerce sellers?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Goods and services tax identification number requirements for e-commerce sellers depend on applicable GST registration provisions, turnover, supply type, platform and relevant exemptions.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>8. Which information can be amended in goods and services tax identification number<\/strong> <strong>after registration?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Registered taxpayers can amend eligible details such as business address, contact information, bank details, business activities and authorised signatory information.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>9. How does GSTIN Help Claim Input Tax Credit?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">GSTIN identifies the registered taxpayer and helps link eligible purchase invoices with GST records for claiming Input Tax Credit.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>10. How does GSTIN work in e-Invoicing?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">GSTIN identifies the supplier and recipient in an e-invoice, helping the GST system validate and record the transaction details.&nbsp;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>With the growing number of businesses, online sellers, startups and service providers in India, keeping business and tax records accurate has become vital. As GST compliance has become closely connected with everyday business activities, the GSTIN (Goods and Services Tax Identification Number )has become an important reference point for businesses during invoicing, tax filing, verification [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":5,"featured_media":2847,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[6],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-2809","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-tax"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2809","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/5"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=2809"}],"version-history":[{"count":10,"href":"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2809\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":2856,"href":"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2809\/revisions\/2856"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/2847"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=2809"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=2809"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=2809"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}