GST invoice format in India, explained simply.
Know what goes on a GST tax invoice, how the tax is split for local and inter-state sales, and how Effy Order fills in the tax part for you.
- ✔ Invoice details checklist
- ✔ CGST, SGST and IGST split
- ✔ HSN-wise tax profile
- ✔ Discounts before tax
- ✔ Print or share
- ✔ GST reports
The details a GST tax invoice usually carries
A GST invoice is the bill a registered business gives for the goods or services it sells. Under the GST rules it carries the seller details, a unique invoice number and the date. It also has the buyer name and address, the buyer GSTIN when the buyer is registered, and a line for each item.
Each item line shows the description, the HSN code, the quantity, the value on which tax is charged and the rate and amount of tax. The place of supply and the seller signature complete the page. The exact list can change with the type of sale and your turnover, so always confirm the current rules with your accountant before you set up your format.
Why the tax split matters
When you sell inside your own state, the tax is shown as two equal parts, CGST and SGST. When you sell to a customer in another state, the tax is shown as a single IGST amount. Printing the wrong one is a common mistake on hand-made bills, and it creates trouble later when your accountant files returns.
In Effy Order you set the tax rate once for each HSN code in your tax profile. When you create an invoice, the tax is picked from that profile and the right split is chosen from the customer state, so the person at the counter does not have to remember any rate.
Discounts, extra charges and returns
Shops give item-wise discounts, an overall discount, or add a delivery or packing charge. These change the value on which tax is calculated, so they must be handled before tax and not afterwards. Effy Order calculates tax after the discount, and lets you add additional charges that carry their own tax.
If goods come back or you overcharged, a credit note corrects the invoice, and a debit note records a return to a supplier. Both are linked to your orders and stock, so your numbers stay in agreement. GST reports and sales reports can be exported when your accountant needs them for filing.
A correct invoice in a few taps
Pick the customer, add the items and the tax part is filled in from your HSN-wise tax profile.
- Choose full, quick or express billing for your counter.
- Scan a barcode or search by name to add items.
- Record the amount received and the payment mode.
- Print the invoice or share the details with the customer.
Frequently asked questions
What is a GST invoice?
A GST invoice, also called a tax invoice, is the bill a GST-registered seller gives to a buyer. It lists the items sold and shows the GST charged on them.
When is IGST used instead of CGST and SGST?
IGST is used when the sale is to a customer in another state. For a sale inside your own state, the tax is shown as CGST and SGST.
Does Effy Order choose between CGST, SGST and IGST for me?
Yes. Tax comes from your HSN-wise tax profile and the split is chosen from the customer state.
Is this guide a replacement for advice from my accountant?
No. This page explains the idea in plain words. Rules can change, so confirm the exact invoice requirements for your business with your accountant.
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