How to Get a GST Number for Your New Business

Co-authored by wikiHow Staff

Last Updated: August 25, 2021 References

GST (Goods and Services Tax) is a federal tax collected by many countries on goods and services sold to the general public. Globally, the GST system is used by a majority of countries, including Australia, Canada, India, and the United Kingdom. Business owners in countries with GST collect the tax from their customers, then pay it to the government on a quarterly basis. To do this, you need a GST number.^{[1]
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Question 1

Question 1 of 8:
Where do I apply for a GST number?

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Apply with your country's revenue agency or tax authority. In most countries, you can complete your GST registration online. The website for your country's business or tax agency will have more information on the specific application process that applies to your business.^{[2]
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- In India, the entire application system is online only. Visit the website of the Goods and Services Tax Council for more information.^{[3]
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Question 2

Question 2 of 8:
How long does it take for GST registration?

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Registration is usually complete within a few business days. When you submit your application to your country's revenue agency or tax authority, a GST number is typically issued automatically. It might be provided to you electronically or mailed to your business address.^{[4]
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- Processing might take a few days, depending on the country. For example, in India, applications are approved within 3 days.

Question 3

Question 3 of 8:
What's a GST number for?

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Your GST number identifies your business as a GST registrant. You'll use your GST number when you pay the taxes you've collected to the federal government. GST is typically paid by your customers—you just add it to the sale price of your goods or services—but you're responsible for paying that money to the government.^{[5]
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- Depending on how much revenue your business earns or the types of products or services you sell, you might also be entitled to a refund of some or all of the GST you collected. If you get a refund, that's money you can keep in your business.
- If you're selling goods or services on an online platform, such as Amazon or Shopify, you'll typically need to provide your GST when you register for that platform.^{[6]
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Question 4

Question 4 of 8:
Do I need a business number to get a GST number?

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You might need to get a business number first. Your business number identifies your business as a separate entity from you. Typically, if you've incorporated your business, you'll already have a GST number. If your business is organized as a sole proprietorship or a partnership, you might have to get a business number to use on your GST application. Check with your country's revenue agency or tax authority to be sure.^{[7]
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- In India, new applications are based on your individual Permanent Account Number (PAN). After your application is accepted, you're assigned a unique GST ID number.^{[8]
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- In Canada, if you register for GST and don't already have a business number, you'll be assigned one automatically when you register for GST.^{[9]
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- Australia has a different registration process you can use if you already have an Australian Business Number (ABN). If you don't, you can get one when you register for GST.^{[10]
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Question 5

Question 5 of 8:
Can I start a business without a GST number?

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Yes, but it's usually easier to go ahead and register. In some countries, such as Canada, you're exempt from GST if your revenues are under $30,000 for 4 consecutive calendar quarters. If you're just starting out with a small side business, you might be exempt—but keep in mind, if you exceed that threshold, you'll owe GST for the entire year's sales.^{[11]
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- If you're a ride-share driver in Canada, you need to register for GST even if you expect your revenue to be under $30,000. The same is true in Australia.^{[12]
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- Even if you don't have to register for GST by virtue of the size of your business, it's still a good idea to go ahead and do so. If you end up not earning enough revenue, you can get the GST you paid back.^{[13]
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Question 6

Question 6 of 8:
How do I know if I need a GST number?

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Check with your country's tax authority for GST information. In general, if you sell goods and services to the public, you likely need a GST number. Even if you think you don't need one, it's usually better to go ahead and get it anyway. If you don't owe GST, you can get a refund.^{[14]
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- Some types of goods and services are exempt from GST. This usually includes certain foods and household necessities, and might also include some crafts and homemade goods.^{[15]
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Question 7

Question 7 of 8:
What categories are exempt from GST?

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Exemptions depend on the country where your business is located. Most countries exempt some food products, basic household goods, and books from GST. Typically, the distinction turns on whether the item you're selling is considered a necessity.^{[16]
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- For example, India exempts certain foods, books, newspapers, hotel services, and homespun cotton cloth.
- Canada exempts educational, health, legal aid, and child care supplies and services from GST.^{[17]
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Question 8

Question 8 of 8:
Can I sell on Amazon without a GST number?

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No, Amazon typically requires GST number details if you're selling taxable goods. When you register for an Amazon account, Amazon asks for your tax information. If your business is located in a country that collects GST, this means you'll need to provide your GST number. ^{[18]
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- If the specific goods you're selling are exempt from GST, you might not be required to provide GST information.
- If you're in India, Amazon has partnered with ClearTax to offer discounted GST registration services.

Warnings

As a business owner, you're responsible for filing a return and remitting the GST owed to the government by the applicable due date. If you're not comfortable handling this, hire an accountant or tax professional to help you.^{[20]
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Don't forget to include GST in your prices for goods and services you sell—otherwise, you'll end up paying it out of your own pocket.^{[21]
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