GST invoice format
A GST tax invoice for Indian businesses with the fields Rule 46 of the CGST Rules requires: supplier and buyer GSTIN, a serial number, place of supply, HSN or SAC codes, taxable value, the tax split into CGST and SGST or IGST, and the total in words.
Templates
- GST invoice (document): A GST tax invoice format for Indian businesses with GSTIN, place of supply, HSN/SAC codes, taxable value, CGST, SGST or IGST and the total in words.
- Invoice (document): A simple invoice for freelancers and small businesses with bill-to details, numbered line items, subtotal, tax, total due and payment terms.
How to use these templates
- Open the GST invoice and enter your business name, address, GSTIN and PAN.
- Tell the AI the buyer, their GSTIN and state, and the items with HSN or SAC code, quantity, rate and GST rate.
- Ask it to "work out CGST and SGST" for a buyer in your state, or "IGST" for a buyer in another state, and to write the total in words.
- Download as PDF, sign it or add your digital signature, and send the original to the buyer.
What must be on a GST invoice in India
- Supplier name, address and GSTIN, and a consecutive serial number unique to the financial year, up to 16 characters, which may include hyphens and slashes, such as INV/2026-27/014.
- The buyer's name, address and GSTIN if registered. For an unregistered buyer, add the delivery address and state name and code when the invoice value is ₹50,000 or more.
- Place of supply with the state name and code. It decides the tax type: CGST plus SGST for a buyer in the same state, IGST for a buyer in another state.
- HSN code for goods or SAC code for services: at least 4 digits if your turnover last year was up to ₹5 crore, 6 digits above that.
- Whether tax is payable on reverse charge, and the signature or digital signature of the supplier or an authorised person.
- If your aggregate turnover is above ₹5 crore, B2B invoices must also be e-invoices registered on the IRP, with an IRN and QR code. Composition dealers cannot charge GST and issue a bill of supply instead of a tax invoice.
Frequently asked questions
When should I charge IGST instead of CGST and SGST?
When the place of supply is in a different state from your registration, the supply is inter-state and you charge IGST at the full rate. Within the same state you split the same rate equally into CGST and SGST.
How many copies of a GST invoice are needed?
For goods, three: the original for the buyer, a duplicate for the transporter and a triplicate for you. For services, two: the original for the buyer and a duplicate for you.
Is a GST invoice valid without a signature?
A signature or digital signature is required on paper invoices. E-invoices registered on the IRP are digitally signed by the portal, so they do not need a separate one.
Can I use this format if I am not registered for GST?
No. Only registered businesses can issue a tax invoice and charge GST. If you are not registered, use the simple invoice without any GST lines.