How to Verify a GSTIN Number Using the Government Portal?

Situations in business, especially after the implementation of GST in India, have become crucial to ensure that all transactions are done with legitimate parties. One of the simplest and most effective ways to do that is by verifying a GSTIN number.

Whether you’re a business owner, accountant, or someone dealing with vendors and clients, verifying a GSTIN (Goods and Services Tax Identification Number) can save you from potential fraud, incorrect tax filings, and compliance issues. 

In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the simple steps to verify a GSTIN number using the government portal. We’ll also show you how tools, including online billing software and free GST billing software, such as Marg Books, can simplify your life.

What is a GSTIN Number?

A GSTIN (Goods and Services Tax Identification Number) is a unique 15-digit alphanumeric code assigned to every business registered under the GST regime in India. It helps the government track GST payments and ensures businesses operate within legal boundaries.

Here’s how the 15-digit GSTIN is structured:

• First 2 digits: State code
  
• Next 10 digits: PAN number of the business
  
• 13th digit: Entity number of the same PAN holder in a state
  
• 14th digit: Default “Z” (currently not used)
  
• 15th digit: Check code (may be a number or alphabet)

Why is it Important to verify a GSTIN Number?

Verifying a GSTIN number before entering into any transaction helps ensure:

• You’re dealing with a registered and legitimate business.
  
• The GST returns you file are accurate.
  
• You claim valid input tax credit (ITC).
  
• You avoid blacklisted or fake GSTINs that can lead to penalties.

Steps to Verify a GSTIN Number Using the Government Portal

The Government of India has made it easy for businesses and individuals to verify a GSTIN through its official GST portal. Here’s how you can do it:

Step-by-Step Guide:

• Visit the Official GST Portal
  
  • Go to https://www.gst.gov.in
    
  • This is the official website for all GST-related services.
    
• Navigate to the ‘Search Taxpayer’ Section
  
  • On the homepage, hover over the ‘Search Taxpayer’ tab on the top menu.
    
  • Click on ‘Search by GSTIN/UIN’.
    
• Enter the GSTIN Number
  
  • Enter the 15-digit GSTIN number you wish to verify.
    
  • Make sure there are no typos.
    
• Complete the CAPTCHA
  
  • Enter the CAPTCHA code as shown on the screen.
    
• Click on ‘Search’
  
  • You’ll be able to view the details of the registered taxpayer associated with the GSTIN, including:
    
    • Legal Name of Business
      
    • Trade Name
      
    • Registration Status
      
    • Date of Registration
      
    • Type of Taxpayer (Regular, Composition, etc.)
      
    • Principal Place of Business

Things to Check While Verifying a GSTIN

While verifying, here are a few things to keep an eye on:

• The legal name of the business matches the business name on your invoice or contract.
  
• The GSTIN status is ‘Active’.
  
• The type of taxpayer (like Regular or Composition) is appropriate for your dealings.
  
• The address should be accurate.

How Marg Books Makes GST Compliance Easier?

Manually verifying every GSTIN and keeping track of it can become tedious, especially when your business starts to grow. That’s where smart tools, MargBooks, come into play.

Marg Books is a powerful online billing software tailored for Indian businesses. It doesn’t just help you generate GST-compliant invoices it also helps automate and simplify many aspects of GST management.

Key Benefits of Using Marg Books:

• Auto-GSTIN Verification: Enter a GSTIN, and the software fetches real-time details from the portal.
  
• GST Filing Made Easy: Generate and file GSTR-1, GSTR-3B, and other returns directly.
  
• Built-in Alerts: Get notified if a vendor’s GSTIN becomes inactive.
  
• User-friendly Dashboard: No need for deep tax knowledge to use it efficiently.
  
• Free GST Billing Software Option: If you’re just starting out or running a small business, MargBooks offers a free GST billing software version too, so you can test the waters without spending a rupee.

Who Should Verify GSTIN Numbers?

If you fall under any of the following categories, make it a habit to verify GSTINs:

• Retailers purchasing goods from distributors
  
• Manufacturers selling to wholesalers
  
• Freelancers and consultants dealing with registered businesses
  
• Accountants filing GST returns for clients
  
• E-commerce sellers working with various vendors

Final Thoughts

Verifying a GSTIN number is a small step that can save you from big trouble. It’s fast, free, and can be done in under a minute through the government portal. For businesses handling multiple vendors and clients, integrating this into your process with the help of an efficient online billing software, MargBooks, can automate GST compliance and prevent costly mistakes.

With tools, Marg Books offering free GST billing software, even small businesses and freelancers can enjoy peace of mind while staying fully compliant with GST rules.