GST Invoice Generator (India)
Create professional GST-compliant tax invoices online. Auto-detects CGST/SGST vs IGST based on buyer state, validates GSTIN, supports HSN/SAC codes, and generates print-ready PDF invoices. Free for Indian freelancers.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I charge IGST instead of CGST+SGST?+
Charge IGST (Integrated GST, full rate e.g. 18%) for inter-state transactions — when the buyer's state differs from your registered state. Charge CGST + SGST (split equally, e.g. 9% + 9% = 18% total) for intra-state transactions where both seller and buyer are in the same state. This tool automatically detects the correct tax type based on the states you enter — you don't need to calculate it manually.
What is a GSTIN and how is it formatted?+
GSTIN (Goods and Services Tax Identification Number) is a 15-character alphanumeric code assigned to every GST-registered business in India. The format is: 2-digit state code + 10-digit PAN number + 1-digit entity number + the letter 'Z' + 1 checksum digit. Example: 27AABCU9603R1ZM (27 = Maharashtra). This tool validates your GSTIN format in real time before generating the invoice.
Do I need to include HSN/SAC codes on my invoice?+
Yes, if you are GST-registered. HSN (Harmonized System of Nomenclature) codes apply to goods; SAC (Services Accounting Code) codes apply to services. Businesses with turnover up to ₹5 Crore need 4-digit codes (B2B only). Above ₹5 Crore, 6-digit codes are required for both B2B and B2C invoices. Common SAC codes for freelancers: 998314 (IT services), 998361 (advertising), 998391 (consulting).
What GST rate should I charge as a freelancer providing IT services?+
IT services and software development fall under SAC code 998314 and attract 18% GST. This applies to web development, app development, consulting, and most digital services. If you are providing export services (client outside India), the transaction qualifies as a zero-rated supply under LUT (Letter of Undertaking), meaning you charge 0% GST. You will need to mention 'Export of Services' and your LUT number on the invoice.
Is GST registration mandatory for freelancers?+
GST registration is mandatory if your aggregate annual turnover exceeds ₹20 Lakhs (₹10 Lakhs for special category states like Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and North-Eastern states). For service exporters (clients outside India), the threshold is the same but you can register voluntarily even below the limit to claim input tax credit and issue valid export invoices. Below the threshold, registration is optional.
What details are mandatory on a GST-compliant tax invoice?+
A valid GST invoice must include: (1) Invoice number and date, (2) Your name, address, and GSTIN, (3) Buyer's name, address, and GSTIN (for B2B), (4) HSN/SAC code for each line item, (5) Description of goods/services, (6) Quantity and unit, (7) Taxable value, (8) Applicable GST rate and amount (CGST + SGST or IGST), (9) Total invoice value, and (10) Place of supply. This generator fills all mandatory fields automatically.