GST Registration

Posted on by Hanmant

Need GST registration for your business? This clear, step-by-step guide explains who must register, what documents you need, how to complete the GST portal application, expected timeline, common mistakes to avoid and how HD Online Services can help.

Why GST registration matters

Goods and Services Tax (GST) registration gives your business a unique GSTIN, lets you collect input tax credit, and makes you compliant for selling goods or services legally in India. If your turnover crosses the statutory threshold (thresholds and rules may change — always check the official portal), or you engage in inter-state supply, online marketplaces, or certain notified activities, you must register.

Documents & information to prepare (keep these scanned and ready)

General documents (applicable depending on business type):

  • PAN of business / applicant
  • Aadhaar of proprietor / partners / directors (or other ID proof)
  • Proof of business address (electricity bill, property tax receipt, rent agreement + NOC from owner)
  • Bank account details and cancelled cheque / bank statement
  • Photograph of proprietor / authorised signatory
  • Certificate of incorporation, Memorandum/Articles of Association (for companies)
  • Partnership deed (for partnership firms) / trust deed (if applicable)
  • Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) — required for companies and LLPs
  • Authorization letter for authorised signatory (if someone else is filing)

Tip: Keep PDFs/JPGs small (under portal limits), and ensure PAN name exactly matches the name entered during registration.

Step-by-step GST registration on the portal

Step 1 — Prepare
Gather scanned copies of all documents and details of the business (PAN, business address, place(s) of business, bank account number, details of partners/directors, NAICS/SAC codes for goods/services you provide).

Step 2 — Start new registration

  1. Go to the GST portal (official website).
  2. Click Services → Registration → New Registration.
  3. Select Taxpayer and fill in state, district, legal name (as per PAN), PAN, email & mobile. Submit to receive OTPs.

Step 3 — Get TRN (Temporary Reference Number)
After OTP verification you’ll get a TRN by email/SMS. Note it down — you will use TRN to continue the application.

Step 4 — Login with TRN and complete application

  1. On the portal choose Temporary Reference Number (TRN) login.
  2. Enter TRN, verify OTP and open the application.
  3. Fill the required sections: Business Details, Principal Place of Business, Additional Places of Business (if any), Details of Goods/Services, Bank Account, State Information, and Details of Proprietor/Partners/Directors/Authorized Signatory.
  4. Upload required documents in the prescribed format for each section.

Step 5 — Verification & submission

  • Validate and submit the form. The form must be digitally signed (DSC) if applicable (companies/LLPs). Proprietors can complete e-KYC by Aadhaar OTP where allowed.
  • On successful submission you will receive an ARN (Application Reference Number).

Step 6 — Officer verification
The tax officer will review the application. They may request additional documents or clarification through the portal. Respond promptly if asked.

Step 7 — GSTIN & certificate
Once approved, the portal issues a GSTIN and a downloadable GST registration certificate (e-certificate). Save and print this for your records.

Expected timeline & fees

  • Typical processing: usually within 7 working days after submission and verification, though timelines can vary.
  • Government fee: No government fee for registration on the GST portal.
  • Professional / service charges: If you hire a tax professional or a service provider (like HD Online Services), they will charge a service fee for document preparation and filing.

(Regulatory rules and timelines may change — always confirm on the official GST portal.)

Common mistakes to avoid

  • Mismatch between PAN name and entered legal name.
  • Uploading wrong document types or files exceeding size limits.
  • Missing DSC where mandatory (companies/LLPs).
  • Using an email or mobile already registered on the portal for another PAN.
  • Not responding to officer’s query within the portal timeframe.

Quick FAQ

Q: Can a sole proprietor apply without DSC?
A: Yes. Proprietors can usually use Aadhaar e-KYC or verification by authorized signatory instead of DSC.

Q: How do I check application status?
A: Login to the GST portal and use your ARN to track status.

Q: Do I need GST if I only sell online occasionally?
A: Inter-state and certain online activities often require registration regardless of turnover — check rules or consult us.

Q: What happens after getting GSTIN?
A: You must start filing periodic GST returns and maintain records. Return frequency depends on your business and scheme.

Ready for help? (Call to action)

Want someone to handle the entire GST registration from document checklist to follow-up? HD Online Services can prepare your documents, fill the portal form and follow up with the tax officer — so you get your GSTIN hassle-free.
Contact us via your website contact page or WhatsApp for a quick document checklist and quote.

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