GST eInvoicing Guide: Everything You Need to Know
What is GST eInvoicing?
GST eInvoicing is a system where business-to-business (B2B) invoices are electronically authenticated by the GST Network (GSTN) for further use on the common GST portal. It requires businesses to generate invoices through their accounting software and then report them to the Invoice Registration Portal (IRP). Once validated, the IRP assigns a unique Invoice Reference Number (IRN), which is then returned to the supplier, ensuring the authenticity and integrity of the invoice.
Benefits of GST eInvoicing
- Reduction in Tax Evasion: eInvoicing ensures that only genuine input tax credit is claimed and reduces the scope for fake invoices.
- Improved Efficiency: Automation reduces manual errors, enhances the accuracy of data, and speeds up the invoicing process.
- Seamless ITC Reconciliation: Real-time data sharing simplifies the reconciliation of Input Tax Credit (ITC).
- Cost Savings: Reduces the need for physical storage and manual handling of invoices.
- Compliance Ease: Simplifies the filing of GST returns by auto-populating invoice details.
GST eInvoicing Implementation: A Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Evaluate eInvoicing Applicability
First, determine if your business falls under the threshold limits set by the GST Council for eInvoicing. As of now, businesses with a turnover exceeding Rs. 50 crores are mandated to adopt eInvoicing.
Step 2: Choose the Right eInvoicing Solution
Select an eInvoicing solution that integrates seamlessly with your existing accounting or ERP system. Ensure the software is capable of generating JSON files as required by the GSTN.
Step 3: Generate the eInvoice
Using your chosen software, generate the eInvoice. This includes details such as buyer and seller information, item details, and tax amounts.
Step 4: Upload to the Invoice Registration Portal (IRP)
Upload the generated JSON file to the IRP. The IRP will validate the data and assign an IRN. Additionally, the IRP will digitally sign the eInvoice and generate a QR code.
Step 5: Receive the eInvoice
Once the IRN is generated, the digitally signed eInvoice is sent back to the supplier. This eInvoice can then be shared with the buyer along with the QR code for verification.
Step 6: Report eInvoices in GST Returns
The eInvoice data is automatically populated in relevant tables of the GST return, simplifying the return filing process.