GST Registration in India — Step-by-Step Interactive Guide

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What’s Composition?
A simplified scheme for small taxpayers with restricted inter-state & e-commerce supplies, where you pay tax at a lower, fixed rate and file fewer returns. Check latest eligibility and turnover limits on the GST portal or with a tax professional.
Your tailored document checklist
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  1. 1
    Check if you must register & choose the right scheme
    • Registration is generally required if your aggregate turnover exceeds the notified threshold (varies by state/type of supply) or if you make inter-state taxable supplies, sell via e-commerce, or fall in specific notified categories.
    • Decide between Regular vs Composition scheme (if eligible). Composition has limits and restrictions; confirm current rules before you opt in.
    • Keep primary mobile & email active for OTPs.
    Note: Thresholds, eligibility, and forms can change. Always verify on the official GST portal before applying.
  2. 2
    Gather documents & set up prerequisites
    • PAN of business/applicant; Aadhaar (for Aadhaar authentication).
    • Photograph of proprietor/partners/directors/authorized signatory.
    • Business address proof: latest utility bill/municipal khata/ownership proof; or rent/lease agreement + owner’s NOC if rented.
    • Bank details: passbook’s first page or cancelled cheque (same legal name).
    • Constitution documents where applicable (Partnership Deed, LLP Agreement, COI + MOA/AOA, Board Resolution/Authorization letter).
    • Digital Signature (DSC) for companies/LLP, if using DSC route.
    Pro-tip: Scan PDFs clearly (< 1–2 MB each). Use consistent legal names exactly as per PAN.
  3. 3
    Create account & get TRN on the GST portal
    1. On the GST portal, choose Services → Registration → New Registration.
    2. Complete Part-A (basic details) to generate a TRN (Temporary Reference Number) via OTP on mobile & email.
    3. Save the TRN. You’ll use it to access the saved application until final submission.
  4. 4
    Fill Part-B (GST REG-01): Business details & Aadhaar authentication
    • Enter Legal Name (as per PAN), Trade Name, Constitution, and State/Jurisdiction.
    • Opt Regular/Composition appropriately; provide reason for registration where required.
    • Complete Aadhaar authentication for promoters/authorized signatory when prompted (recommended for faster approvals).
    What if Aadhaar auth is skipped/failed? Applications without successful Aadhaar authentication may face additional verification/site visit and longer timelines.
  5. 5
    Add Promoters/Partners & Authorized Signatory
    • Provide personal details (Name as per PAN, DIN where applicable), residential address, and photographs.
    • Nominate at least one Primary Authorized Signatory with valid mobile & email.
  6. 6
    Principal Place of Business (+ Additional Places if any)
    • Enter address, nature of possession (Owned/Rented/Shared/Consent), and business activity (e.g., wholesale, retail, services, warehousing).
    • Upload address proof (ownership docs or rent agreement + owner NOC + utility bill).
  7. 7
    Goods/Services, HSN/SAC & Bank details
    • Add top goods/services with correct HSN/SAC codes (at least top 5 commonly supplied).
    • Provide bank account details and upload supporting proof (cancelled cheque/passbook).
    HSN/SAC selection affects e-invoicing/e-way bill & return accuracy; choose carefully.
  8. 8
    Verification & submission (EVC/DSC) → ARN
    • Review all sections; upload remaining documents.
    • Submit the application with EVC (OTP) or DSC (mandatory for Companies/LLPs as notified).
    • On successful submission, you’ll receive an ARN (Application Reference Number). Save it.
  9. 9
    Track status & respond to queries (if any)
    • Track application status on the portal using ARN.
    • If a clarification notice (e.g., REG-03) is raised, reply within the permitted time (e.g., via REG-04) with clear, legible documents.
  10. 10
    After approval: first-time setup & compliance
    • Download Registration Certificate (REG-06) and note your GSTIN.
    • Activate e-invoice/e-way bill systems if applicable to your turnover/industry.
    • Display GSTIN at place of business and on invoices; configure HSN/SAC in billing.
    • Set up return calendar (Regular: GSTR-1 & GSTR-3B; Composition: CMP-08 & annual return, as applicable).
    • For exports/SEZ supplies, consider LUT/Bond as applicable.
    Consult a tax professional for state-specific and sector-specific nuances.
Disclaimer: This is general guidance for educational purposes. Always verify latest rules on the official GST portal or with a qualified professional.