GST Basics

GST Registration for Small Businesses in India: When You Need It and How to Get It

Credwik TeamMarch 5, 20267 min read

Not sure if you need to register for GST? Or already registered but confused about what comes next? This guide covers the essentials — thresholds, process, documents, and what happens after you get your GSTIN.

GST Registration Thresholds (2026)

  • Goods: Mandatory registration if annual turnover exceeds ₹40 lakh (₹20 lakh for special category states)
  • Services: Mandatory if annual turnover exceeds ₹20 lakh (₹10 lakh for special category states)
  • E-commerce sellers: Mandatory regardless of turnover
  • Interstate supply: Mandatory regardless of turnover

Voluntary Registration — Should You?

Even if your turnover is below the threshold, voluntary GST registration is often worth it. It makes you eligible to claim Input Tax Credit on your purchases, allows you to sell to GST-registered businesses (many prefer GST invoices), and lends credibility to your business.

Documents Required for GST Registration

  • PAN card of business/proprietor
  • Aadhaar card of proprietor/partners/directors
  • Proof of business registration (if applicable)
  • Bank account statement or cancelled cheque
  • Address proof for business premises (rent agreement or electricity bill)
  • Passport-size photograph
  • Digital signature certificate (for companies/LLPs)

The Registration Process (Step by Step)

  • Go to gst.gov.in → Services → Registration → New Registration
  • Fill Part A: PAN, mobile, email → Get TRN
  • Fill Part B with business details and upload documents
  • Submit → Get ARN (Application Reference Number)
  • GST officer reviews within 7 working days
  • Receive GSTIN and certificate via email

After Getting Your GSTIN

Once registered, you must file GSTR-1 (sales summary) and GSTR-3B (tax summary) every month, maintain proper books, and display your GSTIN on all invoices, signboards, and correspondence. Credwik automates all of this so compliance doesn't become a burden.

Try Credwik free

Put this guide into action in under 5 minutes.

Join 2,400+ Indian business owners already using Credwik. Free plan, no credit card.

Join waitlist →

More from the blog

🧾
GST Invoicing

How to Create a GST Invoice for Your Small Business in India (2026 Guide)

7 min read
⚖️
Comparisons

Tally vs Credwik: Which Accounting Software is Right for Your Indian Business?

9 min read
🏛️
GST Filing

How to File GSTR-3B Online: A Step-by-Step Guide for Small Businesses (2026)

8 min read