GST Number Format & Examples: A Complete Guide

Before implementing the Goods & Services Tax (GST), every business person and dealer had to register under VAT compulsorily. The laws of the state held power in their area of operations. Accordingly, they each received a TIN from the respective authorities responsible for collecting state-level taxes. A similar registration number is allotted to providers of services by the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC).

However, with the implementation of the GST, all taxpayers have been brought under a common platform for administration purposes. In this guide, we’ll explore the GSTIN number format and its significance in the grand scheme of things.

Format of GST Number

Every taxable business receives a 15-digit GSTIN based on its Permanent Account Number (PAN) from the state’s tax authorities. The GST number format breakdown is as follows.

Example of GST Number Format

Let’s break down a sample GSTIN: 27ABCDE1234F2Z5

• 27: This is the state code for Maharashtra.
• ABCDE1234F: This is the Permanent Account Number (PAN) of the business.
• 2: The second registration of this business with the same PAN in this state.
• Z: This is a default character used by the system.
• 5: This is a checksum digit for validation.

Where You Can Apply For a GSTIN

As a part of the process of GST registration, once the GST authority approves the GST application, the dealer receives his unique GSTIN.

You can undergo GST registration in two ways:

• Through the GST Portal Online
• Through any GST Seva Kendra operated by the Indian Government

In addition, you must keep the following information handy when applying for GST.

• Valid PAN number
• Mobile number of the applicant
• Valid Email ID
• Location of the business
• Jurisdiction details
• An active Indian bank account number with the Indian Financial System Code (IFSC) of the said bank’s branch
• Names of at least one owner, partner, Trustee, Member, Karta, Director and their corresponding PAN
• Details of an Indian authorised signatory with their PAN number.

Please note that registering for and obtaining a GSTIN is free of charge.

How to Check a GSTIN Number’s Validity?

The method is relatively easy and involves the steps mentioned below.

1. Visit the GST Portal.
2. A Search Taxpayer icon will show up subsequently
3. Enter the GSTIN that requires verification along with the captcha code.

If the GSTIN is valid, details like the status of GSTIN, date of registration, the company’s business structure, taxpayer type, and SEZ unit will show up within seconds. In case the GSTIN is invalid, the webpage displays an error.

Conclusion

Getting a GST registration is a straightforward process that can be done online. It is free of cost and offers a host of advantages. Those include legally establishing the business as a services or goods supplier, ensuring input credit, and eliminating restrictions on interstate sales.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is 15 digit GST identification number?

GSTIN, an abbreviation of the Goods and Services Tax Identification Number, is a unique fifteen-digit identification number allotted to all taxpayers, primarily suppliers, dealers, or any business registered under GST.

2. How many letters are in the GST number?

The GST number has 15 letters in it.