A Goods and Services Tax Identification Number (GSTIN) is a unique 15-digit alphanumeric code assigned to every taxpayer registered under the GST regime in India. The GSTIN helps the government to track the tax transactions and compliance of the taxpayers. 

The GSTIN is composed of the following elements: 

• The first two digits represent the state code as per the Indian Census 2011. For example, 27 for Maharashtra and 09 for Uttar Pradesh.
• The next ten digits are the PAN (Permanent Account Number) of the taxpayer.
• The thirteenth digit is assigned based on the number of registrations a taxpayer has within a state. It can be any number from 1 to 9 and alphabets from A to Z.
• The fourteenth digit is Z by default.
• The fifteenth digit is a check code that can be a number or an alphabet.

Importance of GSTIN verification

• It shows an organisation’s credibility to customers, business partners, companies, financial institutions, and government bodies
• It helps verify the identity of the business for transactions and dealings and also avoid any errors or penalties in GST returns
• It proves the legitimacy of the business and eligibility for claiming input tax credit

The 15-digit GSTIN also provides details about the business. For example, the first two digits represent the state code where the business was registered. The next 10 digits show the PAN number of the person who registered the business. The last three digits indicate the number of registrations made by the business, with "Z" as default, and an alphabet or number for error checking.

How to verify GSTIN

To verify your GSTIN, you can follow these steps:

• Visit the official GST portal at [www.gst.gov.in].
• On the homepage, click on the search taxpayer tab and select search by GSTIN/UIN from the drop-down menu.
• Enter your GSTIN number in the search box and click on search.
• If your GSTIN number is valid, you will see the details of the taxpayer, such as legal name, trade name, address, date of registration, status, and tax type.

Verifying your GSTIN is important to ensure that you are dealing with genuine and compliant taxpayers. It also helps you to avoid any penalties or notices from the tax authorities. This quick verification ensures you are dealing with a genuine and compliant business. If you want to know how to log in, visit our page - how to login GST portal.

GST Identification Number format

The GSTIN is structured in a specific format, with each part offering key details about the taxpayer:

• First 2 digits: Represent the state code based on the Indian Census 2011 (e.g., '27' for Maharashtra).
• Next 10 characters: Correspond to the taxpayer's Permanent Account Number (PAN).
• 13th digit: Denotes the number of registrations under the same PAN within a state.
• 14th digit: Usually set to 'Z' by default.
• 15th digit: A check code used for identifying errors.

Where and how to complain about fake GSTIN?

If you happen to notice any irregularities with a GSTIN during a GST number check, remember that you can act as a whistleblower.

You can search GST numbers on the official portal and report any illegalities to the relevant authorities in Noida, Gurgaon, or Delhi by emailing them or calling helpdesk@gst.gov.in | +91 124 4688999 / +91 120 4888999.

When paying any invoice, consumers should verify that the GST number on the invoice is valid at https://www.gst.gov.in/ to ensure their hard-earned money is directed to the correct channels when paying Goods and Services Tax (GST).
 

Advantages of online GSTIN search and verification tool or GSTIN Validator

The benefits of GST number verification using the online GST Search tool are:

• It helps to check the authenticity of any GSTIN, ensuring the number is valid and registered
• A GSTIN on a handwritten invoice can be verified easily, even if it is unclear or unclear
• It helps prevent associating with vendors who may be using fake GSTINs, protecting your business
• It helps avoid GSTIN fraud at the origin of the transaction, reducing the risk of financial loss
• It can assist vendors in correcting any potential errors in reporting GSTINs, ensuring compliance with GST regulations

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