GST Registration Assistance

Who is mandatorily required to register under GST?

Any business with aggregate annual turnover exceeding ₹20 lakh (₹10 lakh in special category states like Manipur, Nagaland, Mizoram, Tripura, Meghalaya, Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Himachal Pradesh) must register under GST. Additionally, businesses engaged in inter-state supply, e-commerce operators, and those making supplies on behalf of others (agents/aggregators) must register regardless of turnover.

Can I do voluntary GST registration if my turnover is below ₹20 lakh?

Yes. Voluntary GST registration is allowed even if your turnover is below the threshold. This is beneficial if you supply to GST-registered businesses (they can claim input tax credit on purchases from you), plan to expand, or want to appear more credible to B2B clients.

How long does GST registration take?

After submitting all documents on the GST portal and receiving the ARN (Application Reference Number), a GST officer typically processes the application within 3–7 working days. If additional information is sought (GSTR REG-03), you get 7 days to respond. The GSTIN (15-digit number) is issued upon approval.

What is the cost of GST registration?

Government fee for GST registration is NIL — the government charges nothing. However, professional fees to a CA or tax consultant typically range from ₹1,000 to ₹3,000 depending on the complexity and business type. OnlineTaxGuru offers CA-assisted GST registration starting at ₹1,499 all-inclusive.

Can I have multiple GSTINs?

Yes. If you operate in multiple states, you need a separate GST registration for each state. A single PAN can have multiple GSTINs — one per state/union territory where you have a business presence. Each GSTIN is a separate registration with its own filing obligations.

What happens if I do not register for GST despite being liable?

Failure to register for GST when liable is an offence under the CGST Act. Penalties include: (1) 10% of tax due or ₹10,000, whichever is higher, for genuine non-registration; (2) 100% of tax due in case of deliberate evasion. Additionally, you cannot collect GST from customers or claim input tax credit.

Do I need to file GST returns after registration?

Yes. Once registered, you must file GST returns monthly/quarterly regardless of turnover. Regular taxpayers file GSTR-1 (outward supplies) and GSTR-3B (summary + tax payment) monthly. Composition scheme taxpayers file quarterly (CMP-08) and annual (GSTR-4) returns.

Can a freelancer or online seller register for GST?

Yes. Freelancers providing services above ₹20 lakh annually must register. Online sellers on marketplaces like Amazon, Flipkart, and Meesho must register regardless of turnover (e-commerce operator provision). We've helped thousands of freelancers and online sellers get GST registered quickly.