GST Registration in Kochi
Are you running a business in Kochi and wondering whether you should register your business under GST? Let us help you!
GST, or Goods and Services Tax, is a single tax that applies to the sale of goods and services across India. It replaced multiple state and central taxes, making the tax system simpler for everyone. In Kochi, GST is governed under the Central Goods and Services Tax (CGST) Act, 2017, and the Kerala Goods and Services Act, 2017. When you register your business with GST, you can legally collect tax from customers, claim input tax credits (ITC) on purchases, and operate across India without compliance barriers. The GST registration process is fully online and requires basic documents such as PAN, Aadhaar, proof of business, and bank account details.
What is GST?
GST stands for Goods and Services Tax. It is one single tax that applies to most goods and services sold in India. Before GST, there were many different taxes that made things complicated for businesses. Now, instead of paying multiple taxes, you just deal with one - GST.
Eligibility for GST Registration in Kochi
GST registration in Kochi is mandatory if:
1. The annual turnover of the business exceeds
- ₹40 lakhs for suppliers of goods and
- ₹20 lakhs for the supplier of services.
2. Compulsory registration
Regardless of annual turnover, businesses falling under the following categories must register under GST.
- Inter-state supplies.
- E-commerce sellers on Amazon, Flipkart, Swiggy, Zomato, etc.
- Casual taxable persons (temporary stalls/exhibitions).
- Non-resident suppliers operating in India.
- Input Service Distributors.
- Agents, brokers, and commission agents.
- Businesses under Reverse Charge Mechanism (RCM).
Benefits of the GST Registration in Kochi
|
Benefit |
How it helps your business |
|
Input Tax Credit (ITC) |
You can claim back the GST paid on purchases for your business, reducing the overall tax burden. |
|
Sell Across India |
Registered businesses can supply goods and services to other states without restrictions. |
|
Government Projects |
Eligible to participate in government tenders and large-scale projects. |
|
Sell online |
If you want to sell your products on online platforms like Amazon, Flipkart, Zomato, or Meesho, you must have a GST number. These websites only allow registered sellers. |
|
Composition Scheme |
Small businesses that earn up to ₹1.5 crore in a year can pay GST at a lower fixed rate for simpler compliance. |
|
Trust with customers |
When your business has a GST registration, people trust you more. It shows that your business is genuine and follows government rules. |
|
Easier Credits |
Banks prefer GST-registered businesses when it has to approve loans or credit. |
Documents Required for GST Registration in Kochi
1. For Individuals/Proprietors:
- PAN card
- Aadhaar card
- Bank account details (statement/cancelled cheque)
- Address proof of business premises (rent agreement/utility bill/property papers + NOC if rented)
- Passport-size photograph
2. For Partnership Firms/LLPs:
- Partnership Deed / LLP Agreement
- PAN and Aadhaar of partners
- PAN card of the Firm
- Proof of principal place of business in Kochi
3. For Companies:
- Certificate of Incorporation (CIN)
- Memorandum and Articles of Association (MoA/AoA)
- PAN of the company and the directors
- Board Resolution authorising GST registration
- Proof of registered office in Kochi
Process of GST Registration in Kochi
1. Visit the official website of GST and click on "Services” → “Registration” → “New Registration".
2. Add the preliminary details: Select the taxpayer types, add the name of the business as per PAN Card, add mobile number and the email id and receive a (Temporary Reference Number.
4. Log in again and fill in the following details:
- Business details
- Details of the promoters/partners
- Details of the authorised signatory
- Principal place of business
- Additional places of business (if any)
- Details of goods and services
- State-specific registration number
5. Complete the Aadhar authentication
6. Submit the application by affixing the DSC and receive an Application Reference Number (ARN) for tracking the application.
7. The GST officer will check the application and documents.
8. The GST officer may ask for additional details.
9. If everything is in order, you will receive your GST Registration Certificate.
GST Compliance for Businesses in Kochi
Once registered, businesses must comply with the following:
- GST Return Filing: Filing the annual GST return for the sales, purchases, tax paid and/collected.
- Timely Payment of GST: Pay GST dues on time on the basis of returns filed to avoid any penalties for delay in payments.
- Maintain Records: Maintain books of accounts, invoices, purchase and sales registers after GST registration.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
|
Type of Non-Compliance |
Penalty |
|
Not registering when required |
10% of tax due (min. ₹10,000) |
|
Late filing of GST return |
₹50 per day (₹20 for NIL returns), max up to 0.25% of turnover |
Why Choose Kanakkupillai for GST Registration in Kochi?
Registering for GST in Kochi can feel confusing due to the many rules, documents, and online steps. A single mistake can delay your approval or even lead to penalties later. This is where Kanakkupillai makes things easy for you.
- Local expertise in Kochi: We understand Kerala’s state-specific GST rules and guide you as per your business type. So, whether you are a shop owner, service provider, or online seller.
- Step-by-Step help: From collecting documents to filing the online application, we handle everything so you don’t have to worry about missing any detail.
- Fast and hassle-free process: Our team ensures your GST registration is completed quickly and without unnecessary delays.
- Affordable pricing: We provide services at pocket-friendly rates with no hidden charges.
- Post-registration support: Getting GSTIN is just the beginning. We also help you file GST returns, claim input tax credit, handle audits, and stay compliant.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of GST registration?
GST registration allows your business to legally charge GST on sales and claim input tax credit for GST paid on purchases. It also establishes your business as officially compliant with tax laws, which improves credibility with customers and suppliers.Who is required to register for GST in Kochi?
Any business exceeding an annual turnover of ₹40 lakhs for goods or ₹20 lakhs for services must register. Additionally, businesses engaged in interstate sales, online selling, casual taxable supplies, or operating under reverse charge mechanisms are required to register, regardless of turnover.Is GST registration mandatory for small businesses?
Small businesses below the turnover threshold can register voluntarily. Doing so allows them to claim input tax credit, participate in government tenders, and gain credibility with clients and banks.What documents are needed to apply for GST in Kochi?
PAN and Aadhaar cards, proof of business address, bank account details, and photographs. Partnerships, LLPs, and companies need additional documents such as partnership deeds, MoA/AoA, board resolutions, and incorporation certificates.Do I need to register for GST if I only sell online?
Yes, e-commerce sellers on platforms like Amazon, Flipkart, Swiggy, Zomato, or Meesho must have GST registration, regardless of turnover, to comply with platform policies and tax regulations.Do I need to file GST returns?
GST returns must be filed monthly or quarterly depending on your business turnover and scheme. Annual returns are also required. Timely filing ensures compliance and avoids penalties.What are the penalties for not registering or filing GST on time?
Failure to register when required may attract a penalty of 10% of tax due (minimum ₹10,000). Late filing of returns can lead to daily fines starting at ₹50 (₹20 for NIL returns), up to a maximum of 0.25% of turnover.Can a GST registration be transferred if I move my business in Kochi?
Yes. If your principal place of business changes, you must update the GST portal with the new address to ensure compliance and avoid notices.How does GST registration help in expanding my business?
With GST registration, you can legally sell to customers across India, participate in government contracts, claim input tax credits, and gain trust from suppliers, banks, and clients. It enables smooth interstate and online trade.What makes Us Different
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