GST Invoice Format Download
- Ready to use Expert-drafted professional GST Invoice template
- Customise with tax expert support
- Get up to 2 free revisions
Looking for more? Check out our premium features. Learn More
I needed a professional offer letter for my new business, and this template was a lifesaver! The expert-drafted template was easy to customise, and with the option for legal assistance, I was confident it was see more ...
.png){kind=small}
What Is a GST Invoice Format and Why Is It Important?
A GST invoice format is an editable document that has a predesigned format that can be used by businesses to generate invoices that comply with Goods and Services Tax (GST) regulations. It should include:
Unique invoice number
Date of the invoice Supplier information
GSTIN No. and name Recipient information
GSTIN No. and name Description of goods and services with their respective HSN/SAC codes
Applied GST rates Amount of tax (CGST, SGST, or IGST)
The template also contains provision to mention the total amount and after GST, along with the payment terms. The GST invoice format helps in easy records maintenance and reduces errors. Also, it keeps the businessmen abreast of the tax laws.
Again, it makes the easy filing of GST returns and obtaining input tax credits, helping maintain accurate financial records and avoiding lawsuits. Using the correct GST invoice format simplifies record-keeping and reduces errors, allowing business owners to stay compliant with tax laws. It also facilitates smooth filing of GST returns and claiming of input tax credits, ensuring that businesses maintain accurate financial records and avoid potential legal issues.
Legal Requirements for GST Invoice Format
Section 31 of the CGST Act, 2017 states what is legally required in terms of a GST invoice. It provides that a tax invoice or bill of supply shall be issued for every supply of goods, services, or both. According to Rule 46 of the CGST Rules, 2017, the invoice shall contain details like description, quantity, value, etc., and other prescribed information. An invoice or bill of supply is not required if the value of the supply is less than ₹200, subject to certain conditions. The nature of invoice issued depends on the type of registered person who is making the supply.
For example, if a registered person is making taxable supplies then he has to issue a tax invoice but in case, a registered person is only dealing with exempted supplies or is a composition dealer, he must issue a bill of supply instead of a tax invoice.
Benefits of Using a Proper GST Bill Format
A proper GST bill format is used to ensure that all invoices are tax compliant and facilitate the smooth operation of businesses. It not only simplifies record-keeping but also facilitates accurate filing and tax credit claims. Here are 5 benefits of using a GST bill format:
Easy to Generate GST Invoices: A GST invoice format helps business owners quickly create GST-compliant invoices with all necessary details included
Saves Time: A pre-designed GST invoice template streamlines the invoicing process, allowing businesses to generate invoices quickly and consistently without needing to start from scratch each time
Reduces Errors and Inconsistencies: Using a template ensures that all necessary information (such as GSTIN, tax rates, and HSN/SAC codes) is included correctly, minimising the chances of mistakes that could lead to compliance issues or financial discrepancies
Simplified Record Keeping: Templates help businesses maintain consistent and organised records of their transactions, making it easier to track and access past invoices for tax filings, audits, and business analysis
Standardised Template: Using a standardised template ensures that invoices meet GST requirements, including GSTIN numbers, tax rates, and the breakdown of taxes.
Download Your GST Invoice Format Now
Basic Drafting
Suitable for creating a quick draft independently.
Customise basic details and generate an GST Invoice Format in few steps.
Download it in a ready to use format!
Premium Drafting
Ideal for fully customised GST Invoice Format.
Includes a 30-minute consultation with a legal expert before drafting.
Get 2 free rounds of revisions.
What Are the Essential Components of a GST Invoice?
Although there is no particular prescribed format for GST invoices, the GST invoice rules require certain mandatory fields in the invoice, depending upon its applicability. Some of the mandatory fields which are required to be mentioned in the invoice for compliance under GST laws are:
Supplier Information: Name, address, and GSTIN of the supplier
Invoice Serial Number: A unique consecutive serial number for each financial year
Invoice Issue Date: The date the invoice is issued
Recipient Information: Name, address, and GSTIN (if registered) of the recipient, or the name and address of an unregistered recipient with details of taxable supply exceeding ₹50,000
HSN/SAC Code: Harmonised System of Nomenclature (HSN) code for goods or Accounting Code for services
Description of Goods/Services: A detailed description of the goods or services provided
Quantity/Unit Details: Quantity of goods or unique quantity code for services
Value of Supply: Total value of the supply of goods or services, including taxable value and applicable discounts
Tax Details: Rate of tax (CGST, SGST, IGST, or cess), and the amount of tax charged
Place of Supply: The location of supply and state code, especially for inter-state supplies
Delivery Address: Address of delivery, if different from the place of supply
Reverse Charge Tax: Whether tax is payable under reverse charge mechanism
Signature/ Digital Signature: Signature or digital signature of the supplier or their authorised representative (not required for electronic invoices under the IT Act, 2000)
These details ensure that the GST invoice is legally compliant and can be used for smooth tax filings and claiming input tax credits.
Contents of Bill of Supply:
A Bill of Supply should include the following details:
Supplier Information: Name, address, and GSTIN of the supplier
Unique Serial Number: A consecutive serial number, in one or multiple series, including alphabets, numerals, or special characters (e.g., hyphen or slash) that is unique for a financial year
Issue Date: The date the Bill of Supply is issued
Recipient Information: Name, address, and GSTIN or UIN (if registered) of the recipient
HSN Code: HSN code of goods or accounting code for services
Description of Goods/Services: Clear description of the goods or services supplied
Value of Supply: Value of the supply, including any discounts or abatements, if applicable
Signature/ Digital Signature: Signature or digital signature of the supplier or authorised representative.
Invoice-cum-Bill of Supply: In case a registered person supplies both taxable and exempt goods/services to an unregistered person, a single invoice-cum-bill of supply may be issued.
Services:
A registered person supplying taxable services must issue a tax invoice, either before or after service provision but within the prescribed period
The government may specify certain services where other documents can be considered a tax invoice or where a tax invoice is not required.
Invoice Timing:
Goods: Invoice must be issued before or at the time of supply
Services: Invoice must be issued before or after the provision of service, but within 30 days from the service date as per invoice rules.
Contents of a Revised Tax Invoice:
A revised tax invoice must include the following details:
Revised Invoice Label: The word ‘Revised Invoice’ should be prominently displayed, where applicable
Supplier Information: Name, address, and GSTIN of the supplier
Unique Serial Number: A consecutive serial number with alphabets, numerals, or special characters (e.g., hyphen or slash), unique for the financial year
Issue Date: The date the revised invoice is issued
Recipient Information: Name, address, and GSTIN or UIN (if registered) of the recipient
Recipient's Address and State Code: For unregistered recipients, include the name, address, delivery address, and state code
Original Invoice Details: Serial number and date of the original tax invoice or bill of supply
Signature: Signature or digital signature of the supplier or authorized representative.
Customising the GST Invoice Format for Your Business Needs
You will notice that customising your GST invoice template has numerous benefits regarding professionalism, compliance, and smoothing out the process of giving your invoice. Personalising the layout as well as functionality allows you to create a GST invoice reflecting your brand, industry-specific requirements, and easy calculations. The following is how you may customise your GST template:
Branded GST Invoice: Personalise the invoice with your company’s logo and branding to reflect your business identity
Logo on GST Bill: Place your logo prominently to make the invoice professional and easily recognisable
Custom Look: Use readable fonts, bold headings, and borders to create a clear, organised, and visually appealing design
Industry-Specific GST Template: Tailor the layout to suit your industry’s needs, such as adding specific product or service details
Custom GST Fields: Add or modify fields to include information that is important for your business, such as unique product codes or service descriptions
Excel GST Calculator: Use Excel formulas to automatically calculate subtotals, GST amounts, and totals
Automatic GST Computation: Streamline the invoicing process by configuring your template to automatically compute taxes, ensuring accuracy and saving time.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using a GST Invoice Format
Correct usage of a GST invoice format is very important for compliance and smooth business operations. However, there are common mistakes that businesses often make, which can lead to errors, penalties, and delays. Here are 7 common mistakes:
Incorrect HSN or SAC Code Usage
To evade contraventions of GST regulations, a relevant HSN code for products is to be implemented, and accurate SAC code needs to be cross-checked for service availed, in order not to attract any kind of violation. A wrong code creates a penalty and delays in invoices being processed.
GSTIN number not available or incorrect.
Double-check the GSTIN of a buyer and seller to avoid discrepancies. Ensure that an invoice contains the GSTIN of all registered parties who have been involved in the transaction process. Accurate registration data is very important for GST filing or compliance.
Not Including Complete Product / Service Descriptions
Properly describe the service or products given to avoid misunderstandings. Properly indicate the items' details as per the transaction. Make sure the description correctly refers to the HSN or SAC code.
GST Rates Calculation Error and Tax Amount
Appropriate GST rates computation should be applied for every line item. Use the correct GST rates to prevent an error in tax amounts. Make sure that the proper CGST, SGST, or IGST segregation is applied.
Not Mentioning Payment Terms or Due Dates
Clearly specify payment terms, including the due date and any discounts. Include a due date to ensure timely payments. State penalties or fees for late payments to avoid misunderstandings.
Using Outdated GST Invoice Templates
Ensure your invoice format complies with the latest GST regulations. Avoid using old templates that do not meet current legal standards. Regularly update your invoice format to reflect regulatory changes.
Failure to Tailor the Invoice in Terms of Business Needs
Customise your invoicing format according to your company brand and needs. Ensure it perfectly suits your industry and business requirements in terms of types of transactions. Use a professional-looking layout that contains all significant detail and branding elements.
Need Assistance? Get Expert Help with Your GST Invoices
Having your GST invoice drafted by legal experts ensures accuracy and full compliance with the law, reducing the risk of missing out on vital information. Professional assistance helps navigate complex GST laws and regulations, providing peace of mind that your invoices are legally sound and aligned with industry standards.
Contact our legal experts if you need customised GST invoice solutions according to your business needs. Our team provides prompt and accurate advice to address your specific invoicing challenges while ensuring that it is GST compliant.
What you will get at Vakilsearch:
A 30-minute consultation regarding understanding your unique needs
An expertly drafted customised GST template according to your business needs
Comprehensive customisation with 2 free revisions for accuracy
Legal standards are followed to ensure that the offer letter is clear and enforceable
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
A correct GST invoice format includes key details such as the invoice number, date, supplier and recipient GSTIN, address, item descriptions, HSN/SAC codes, taxable value, GST rates (CGST, SGST, IGST), total tax amount, and the supplier’s signature. This ensures compliance with GST regulations and transparency.
Yes, GST invoice templates are freely downloadable in the Excel and Word formats. They offer customisation, add business details, automate the tax calculations, and have all of the mandatory fields included to make it easy to quickly create professional and compliant GST invoices.
Yes, auto GST invoice templates let you print several invoices at once. By entering bulk data through Excel or invoicing software, you can calculate tax, total, and discounts automatically. This cuts down manual errors and saves time by having consistency in GST compliances.
Yes, for goods and services, GST invoice formats are a bit different. For goods, one would require details about quantity, unit price, and HSN code, among others. For services, it is more about service description, charges, and SAC codes. Both should have a breakdown of GST and must comply with the GST rules.
A legal expert ensures your GST invoices meet all regulatory requirements, helping to avoid errors, penalties, and audits. They provide tailored advice on formatting, HSN/SAC codes, and tax calculations, ensuring your business remains compliant and streamlining the invoicing process for smooth operations.
