GST Invoicing
As the Indian government continues to implement the Goods and Services Tax (GST), businesses across the country must stay up to date with the latest invoicing requirements. GST invoicing is crucial for staying compliant with tax regulations and ensuring smooth operations. From the details that must be included in invoices to the benefits of the self-help e-invoice system, understanding the ins and outs of GST invoicing is essential for business success. Keep reading to learn more about the importance of GST invoicing in India.
1. Introduction to GST Invoicing in India
India’s implementation of Goods and Services Tax (GST) invoicing has revolutionized the fiscal landscape of the country. The government’s initiative to streamline invoicing processes with the GST system represents a major shift towards the integration of the entire country into a single marketplace. The GST project is an ambitious plan, aimed at harmonizing the tax system and reducing the incidence of tax fraud.
One of the key components of the GST system is the electronic invoicing or e-invoicing system. The Indian tax authority approved the phased implementation of B2B electronic invoicing through the GST system in December 2019. The e-invoicing system requires issuers to report their invoices to the Invoice Registration Portal (IRP) for validation before delivery to their customers. The IRP electronically signs the invoice and assigns a unique identification number (IRN) to the invoice to make it valid.
Invoicing requirements differ according to a company’s annual turnover. The first businesses required to adopt the GST system are those with an annual turnover of Rs. 500 crores or more. The mandatory use of electronic invoices will begin in October 2020. Companies are required to adapt to the system gradually according to their annual turnover. The mandatory use of electronic invoices will be implemented in phases from October 2020 onwards.
The e-invoicing system provides several benefits for businesses in India. It helps eliminate the need for manual data entry and ensures real-time tracking of invoices. Backward integration and automation of the tax return filing process, and faster availability of genuine input tax credit are some advantages of the system. With the GST system and e-invoicing, India has made a significant step towards a more efficient and transparent system of tax administration.
2. Benefits of E-Invoicing for Businesses
E-invoicing has several advantages for businesses of all sizes. One of the main benefits is that it makes the invoicing process faster and more efficient, which in turn leads to reduced errors and greater cost savings. As per the Zoho Books report, “e-invoicing is the future of electronic billing and India is gearing up to join the countries that have already adopted it.” This move will help businesses comply with the published schema in order to ensure interoperability of data across the GST ecosystem.
Another key benefit of e-invoicing is that it helps businesses maintain better records and evidence. The unique reference number issued for each transaction ensures that the government has accurate and real-time data on invoicing and transactions between buyers and sellers. This allows authorities to track fake invoices and prevent tax fraud. As per the report, “real-time tracking of invoices will allow the government to monitor fake invoices while fighting against tax fraud.”
Furthermore, e-invoicing is a more transparent system that enables better automation when it comes to GST return filing and e-way bill generation. Automating the process makes it quick and easy, which in turn leads to fewer errors and reduced manual labour expenses.
In conclusion, the implementation of e-invoicing will lead to a more effective and efficient system in India’s tax regime, benefiting businesses with cost savings, reduced errors, and transparency in transactions. As the report states, “Get your business ready for GST with Zoho Books.”
3. Contents of GST Tax Invoices
The contents of a GST tax invoice in India are regulated by Rule 46 of the CGST Rules and must include 16 specific details. Starting with the name, address, and GSTIN of the supplier, followed by the tax invoice number (up to 16 characters) and the name, address, and GSTIN of the recipient if registered. If the recipient is not registered and the value is more than Rs. 50,000, the invoice should carry additional details such as the name and address of the recipient, state name and code, HSN code, and quantity and units of goods supplied. The invoice should also carry the total value of supply, the applicable rate of GST with breakups of amounts of CGST, SGST, IGST, UTGST, and Cess. Moreover, it must mention whether GST is payable on a reverse charge basis and the signature of the supplier or authorized representative.
“Under GST, an invoice must be a complete document that records all the necessary details related to a transaction, including the HSN code, without which tax credits cannot be claimed,” says Apurva Joshi, partner and indirect tax leader at consulting firm Nitya Tax Associates. “For all registered taxpayers with a turnover of over Rs. 5 crore, it is mandatory to furnish the 6-digit HSN code for all goods and services in B2B invoices.” For taxpayers with less than Rs. 5 crore turnovers, the requirement is to furnish 4-digit HSN codes for all B2B invoices, while reporting is optional for B2C invoices. As per the rule, businesses must also endorse their invoices for exports and supply to SEZ units as well as developers for authorized operations. It is important to note that businesses must retain copies of all their invoices as required by the GST law.
4. Reporting of HSN Codes in GST Invoicing
Reporting of HSN Codes in GST Invoicing is an essential aspect for businesses as it helps streamline the invoicing process and provides accurate information for GST returns. The HSN or Harmonized System of Nomenclature is a globally accepted system that uses uniform codes to classify goods. In India, the HSN code uses eight digits for more specific classification. On the other hand, the SAC or Services Accounting Code is used for classifying services in tax invoices.
To comply with GST invoicing regulations, businesses need to report the HSN/SAC code for each product or service they sell, depending on the turnover in the preceding financial year. The GST council has also revised the HSN and SAC code declaration requirements as part of the GSTR-1 return and invoices to ensure better compliance and reporting. Businesses with a turnover above Rs. 5 crores must use a 6-digit HSN code for all invoices. While businesses with a turnover less than or equal to Rs. 5 crores must use a 4-digit HSN code for all B2B invoices.
Non-compliance with the HSN/SAC code reporting requirement may invite penalties for businesses. A penalty of Rs. 50,000 will be levied for non-mentioning or wrong mentioning of the HSN/SAC code in GST returns and tax invoices.
To avoid penalties and streamline invoicing processes, businesses can use software like EZTax.in Books software to enter the HSN or SAC code in the tax invoice. EZTax.in Books software will automatically bring in the HSN/SAC information into the GSTR-1 return based on the previous year’s turnover.
To sum it up, accurate reporting of HSN or SAC codes in GST invoicing is crucial for businesses as it ensures better compliance with GST rules and regulations. As a business, it’s essential to stay updated on the latest GST invoicing regulations and comply with them to avoid any penalties. Remember, proper invoicing is a step towards good bookkeeping, which in turn ensures better financial management for businesses.
5. Endorsement on Invoices for Exports
Endorsement on invoices for exports is a crucial aspect of GST invoicing in India. When exporting goods from India, it attracts nil GST. However, if GST is paid at any point of time against the exports, it can be refunded or exported under bond without paying GST.
To prepare an invoice for export when GST is involved, there are a few changes that must be effected. The Export Invoice has to be reflected with an endorsement of either “Supply meant for Export on Payment of IGST” or “Supply meant for Export under bond without payment of IGST.” The contents of the Export Invoice remain the same, including the name and address of the recipient, the name of the country of destination, and the number and date of application of removal of goods for export (ARE-1).
To maximize ITC (Input Tax Credit) claims, an AI-driven engine can be utilized to generate 20+ PAN-level reports in minutes, which can help to claim the maximum ITC under GST.
It’s also essential to keep a copy of all invoices, including those for the export of goods. According to the GST Law, businesses are required to keep copies of all invoices.This is crucial for businesses to ensure that they remain compliant with GST rules and regulations.
Overall, endorsement on invoices for exports is a simple yet crucial aspect of GST invoicing in India, and businesses must stay up-to-date with these guidelines to ensure smooth operations. As the saying goes, “pay attention to the details, and the big picture will take care of itself.”
6. Phased Implementation of Mandatory Fields
Under GST, e-invoicing is mandatory for businesses with a turnover of Rs.20 crore or more. However, the government has now announced phased reduction in annual turnover thresholds for mandatory issuance of e-invoices. As of October 1, 2022, businesses with an annual turnover of INR 100 million or above in the previous financial year will be required to issue e-invoices. This move is aimed at enabling small businesses to embrace technology and plug leakages around tax compliance, including tax evasion among small businesses. Small businesses that usually issue informal sale invoices or ‘kacha bills’ will now have to mandatorily issue e-invoices. Consequently, they will find it difficult to underreport their sales as the business-to-business transactions of these entities will be captured at the e-invoicing portal.
To support businesses in this transition, Clear is an officially GSTN-approved IRP provider, with more than 3000 large enterprises already trusting the Clear e-Invoicing solution for unified e-invoicing and e-way bill compliance. The system has been implemented in a phased manner in India since October 1, 2020, and e-invoicing requires the registration of all invoices with the government on the Invoice Registration Portal (IRP). Once the supplier has uploaded the specified particulars on the IRP, a unique Invoice Reference Number (IRN) and Quick Reference (QR) code is generated. It must be noted that only a registered e-invoice with IRN is considered to be valid and non-adherence will result in non-compliance.
As the implementation of e-invoicing under the GST law is aiding the country in enhancing transparency, reducing tax evasion and ensuring uniformity in invoicing processes, businesses must prepare well in advance to comply with the phased implementation of mandatory fields. These changes will require businesses, especially smaller ones, to streamline their invoicing processes with technology-driven solutions.
7. AI-Driven Engine for Maximizing ITC Claims
Maxizing Input Tax Credit (ITC) is a crucial task for businesses in India to ensure they don’t lose out on their working capital. However, manually managing ITC claims, coordinating with vendors, and reconciling data can be a daunting task. To overcome these challenges, ClearTax developed an AI-driven engine for maximizing ITC claims known as Clear Max ITC.
This end-to-end automated ITC solution leverages gamification techniques to improve vendor behavior, rewards prompt filing, and penalizes delays, making it easier for businesses to claim maximum ITC. Moreover, it’s AI-based configurable PAN-level matching can compare 60,000 invoices a minute, making it the most comprehensive solution to claim maximum ITC automatically powered by Artificial Intelligence.
According to a survey conducted by Clear, businesses spend an additional Rs. 9000 crore each year due to the lack of an automated system to manage claims, manual and offline vendor communication, and coordination across teams. This leads to inefficiencies and errors, resulting in businesses losing up to 7% of their working capital. With Clear Max ITC, businesses can schedule auto-reconciliations, auto-sync payment decisions for each invoice, and set vendor payment terms based on their filing behavior.
Clear Max ITC’s innovative features have made it an essential tool for businesses who are struggling to manage their ITC claims, allowing them to maximize ITC claim and reduce their GST tax payouts. In the words of one of their satisfied clients, “Clear Max ITC has converted our tedious and time-consuming input tax credit claims process into an automated and error-free one, providing us with quick and accurate reconciliations.”
In conclusion, businesses must embrace AI-driven automation solutions like Clear Max ITC to streamline their invoicing processes, maximize ITC claims, and unblock their working capital.
8. Real-Time Tracking of Invoices
Real tracking of invoices is a crucial element in the GST invoicing process. With the implementation of e-invoicing, businesses can track the status of invoices in real-time as they move through different stages of validation, acceptance, and payment. This tracking system enables businesses to stay up to date with their invoicing process and ensures timely payments from customers.
Avalara’s e-invoicing software for GST compliance offers real-time tracking of invoices with multiple options for seamless upload and validation of the invoice data. The software segregates the B2B and B2C invoices, which require an e-way bill, and ensures that all the necessary input data fields are provided to avoid any generation errors. The system also performs quality checks for the data, preventing any possible disruptions and saving time.
Moreover, the software also provides an option for real-time e-invoice generation, ensuring businesses have complete visibility of the invoices generated, and avoiding any delays in the invoicing process. The smart data validation and sanitization, along with regular checks for data quality, prevents errors and ensures that the invoice is accepted without any issues.
To ensure compliance, the system generates an Identification Reference Number (IRN) and QR code for each invoice, making it easy to reconcile with the GST returns and e-way bills. Furthermore, businesses can customize and configure e-invoice templates according to their needs and even add their business logo for a more personalized touch.
Overall, with real-time tracking of invoices through Avalara’s GST-compliant e-invoicing software, businesses can streamline their invoicing process, ensure timely payments, and maintain compliance with GST regulations.
9. Importance of Keeping a Copy of Invoices
Keeping a copy of invoices is an important aspect of complying with GST laws in India. As per the GST rules, businesses must furnish records of all their invoices to the tax authorities. In addition, it is important for businesses to maintain their own records for future reference. Here are some reasons why keeping copies of invoices is crucial:
– Accurate record-keeping: If a business maintains accurate records of their invoices, it helps to keep track of their finances in a better way. They can also be used as proof of transactions in case of any disputes or audits.
– Claiming Input Tax Credit (ITC): It is mandatory to have a valid GST invoice for claiming ITC under the GST law. If a business purchases goods or services from a supplier without an invoice, they cannot claim ITC on that transaction.
– Clarification of Billing Issues: In case of any discrepancy or error in the billing details, having a copy of the invoice helps to quickly resolve the issue.
– Legal Compliance: It is mandatory to keep copies of invoices for legal compliance. Failure to do so can lead to penalties and fines.
According to a KPMG report, “Maintaining proper records of transactions is not only important for availing Input Tax Credit (ITC) but also for being GST compliant”. Therefore, it is important for businesses to maintain accurate records of their invoices to avoid any hassle during audits and to ensure smooth business operations.
10. Conclusion: Streamlining Invoicing Processes with GST
In, the implementation of GST e-invoicing in India has been a significant step towards formalizing small businesses and reducing tax evasion. The mandatory adoption of e-invoicing for businesses with an annual turnover exceeding INR 50 million has contributed to a broader GST base and greater transparency in the taxation system. E-invoicing has streamlined tax compliance, boosted revenue collection, and synchronized sales data between small business vendors and large corporate clients.
The advantages of e-invoicing are numerous, including backward integration and automation of the tax return filing process resulting in lower costs and faster returns on investment. E-invoicing ensures more efficient and transparent processes, higher standards of compliance, and better safety through encrypted transmission procedures. It also helps in plugging the major gap in data reconciliation under GST to reduce mismatch errors, cuts the time lag in payment, and improves cash flow.
The threshold limit for issuing E-Invoicing has been reduced to Rs. 5 Crores effective from 1st August 2023. Various methods of generating e-invoicing have been made available to businesses, including a simple user-friendly form-based Excel Tool. Exemptions for e-invoicing have been made for banking companies, financial institutions, goods transport agencies, and registered persons providing certain services.
For B2B invoices, both e-way bills and e-invoices are required, whereas only e-way bills are required for B2C invoices. However, taxpayers with an annual turnover of more than Rs. 500 Cr in any preceding financial year from 2017-18 must include the B2C QR Code on their invoices. It is also mandatory to submit invoices and credit-debit notes to the Invoice Registration Portal (IRP) and generate e-invoices within a period of 3 months for taxpayers with a turnover of Rs. 100 crore or more.
In summary, GST e-invoicing has streamlined invoicing processes in India, reduced tax evasion, and improved compliance. Its implementation has been a significant positive change in the Indian taxation system, facilitating efficient and transparent processes for businesses of all sizes.
