GST registration in India is a process where businesses obtain a unique Goods and Services Tax Identification Number (GSTIN) to comply with the Goods and Services Tax (GST) regime.

Who Needs GST Registration:

• Businesses with an annual turnover exceeding Rs. 40 lakh (Rs. 20 lakh for some special category states) must register for GST.
• Certain other entities like e-commerce aggregators, interstate suppliers, and those making casual taxable supplies may also need registration.

Benefits of GST Registration:

• Legality and Compliance: It ensures you operate legally and comply with GST regulations.
• Input Tax Credit: You can claim credit for GST paid on purchases, reducing your overall tax liability.
• Interstate Business: Registration allows you to conduct interstate business transactions without additional taxes.
• Credibility and Growth: It enhances your business credibility and facilitates growth opportunities.

Types of GST Registration:

• Regular Registration: Mandatory for businesses exceeding the turnover threshold.
• Composition Scheme: A simplified scheme with lower GST rates applicable to small businesses (turnover up to Rs. 1.5 crore).

Consequences of Not Registering:

• Operating without GST registration is an offence and can attract penalties.
• You cannot claim input tax credit, potentially increasing your tax burden.
• You might face difficulties in conducting interstate business transactions.

Documents required for GST Registration

• PAN Card: Permanent Account Number of your business entity (proprietorship, partnership, company etc.).
• Aadhaar Card: Aadhaar card of the business owner/promoter/authorized signatory.
• Address Proof: Documents proving the principal place of business (rental agreement, utility bills, property tax receipt etc.).
• Bank Account Details: Cancelled cheque or bank statement of the business bank account.
• Photographs: Passport-sized photographs of the business owner/promoter/authorized signatory.
• Constitution of Business: Documents like Partnership Deed, Memorandum of Association (MOA), Certificate of Incorporation etc., depending on your business structure.