Confirming a GST Number (GSTIN) within the contemporary tax framework is essential in maintaining clarity and mitigating fraudulent activities. This is a taxation verification step that every stakeholder in the business realm, from proprietors to clients, must ensure so as to validate the identity of a taxpayer in good standing. It is the purpose of this blog to assist you in searching for a GST number through the internet and verifying it with ease.
What is GSTIN?
A GSTIN (Goods and Services Tax Identification Number) is allocated to every business registered under GST – it is a 15-digit unique number based on their PAN. GSTIN functions as an identity of the business against the GST laws in India. It is mandatory for businesses to authenticate the GST numbers prior to incorporating them in bills or GST returns to mitigate any inaccuracies or fraudulent exchanges.
GSTIN Structure:
- First 2 digits – State Code
- Next 10 characters – PAN of the registered business
- 13th digit – Entity number (for businesses with multiple registrations under the same PAN)
- 14th digit – Always ‘Z’ by default
- Last digit – Checksum character for verification
Why Should You Verify a GST Number?
Verifying a GST number ensures that a business is legally registered and prevents fraudulent transactions. Here are a few key reasons:
- Detect fake GST registrations
- Avoid incorrect invoices & tax fraud
- Ensure proper input tax credit claims
- Identify the legal name, registration status, and taxpayer type of a business
How to Search & Verify a GST Number Online?
1. Using the GST Portal (Official Website)
Follow these steps to check a GST number on the official GST website:
- Go to the GST portal – https://services.gst.gov.in/services/searchtp
- Click on ‘Search Taxpayer’
- Enter GSTIN or PAN in the search box
- Complete the captcha verification
- Click ‘Search’ – The system will display GST registration details
How to Report Fake GST Numbers?
If you come across a fake or fraudulent GST number, report it immediately to the authorities:
- Email: helpdesk@gst.gov.in
- Helpline: +91 124 4688999 / +91 120 4888999
- GST Portal: File a complaint under the ‘Search Taxpayer by PAN’ option and follow the verification steps.
Conclusion
GSTIN verification plays an important role in preventing fraud and confirming compliance with the tax laws. Regardless of whether you are a vendor, buyer, or a tax professional, online GST search tools and GST verification services will ensure compliance. For those seeking assistance in GST registration, Saptax Hub LLP is a trusted name that provides expert guidance.
For more details, reach out to Saptax Hub LLP – Your trusted GST registration partner!
