When it comes to running a growing business in India, having multiple branches or offices is a common scenario. Whether you’re expanding to a new location or shifting your operations to a more strategic place, it’s crucial to keep your GST (Goods and Services Tax) registration up to date. One important aspect that often gets overlooked is the shifting of an additional place of business in GST.
Let’s break it down simply, what it means, how to do it, and what tools (like online billing software and accounting software) can help you keep everything compliant without a headache.
What Is an Additional Place of Business in GST?
Under GST law, if your business operates from more than one location in a particular state, all those locations (other than the principal place of business) are referred to as additional places of business.
For instance, let’s say you run a garment store in Mumbai and recently opened another outlet in Pune. Your Mumbai store is your principal place, while Pune becomes your additional place of business.
Why Update the Additional Place of Business in GST?
If you’re shifting your branch, warehouse, or secondary office to a new address, it’s mandatory to update this in the GST portal. Here’s why:
- Legal compliance and to avoid penalties
- To issue invoices with the correct address
- To ensure smooth input tax credit (ITC) claims
- For proper business correspondence and inspections (if needed)
So, if you’re moving, don’t just update your customers and suppliers—remember to tell the GST department too!
Step-by-Step Process for Shifting Your Additional Place of Business in GST
Updating your GST registration details is quite straightforward when done online. Here’s how you can go about it:
Step 1: Log in to the GST Portal
Visit www.gst.gov.in and log in using your credentials.
Step 2: Navigate to the Amendment Section
- Go to Services > Registration > Amendment of Registration (Non-Core Fields)
- Since the additional place of business is a non-core field, you don’t need approval from the tax officer unless documents are missing.
Step 3: Update Business Address
- Click on the ‘Additional Places of Business’ tab
- Click ‘Edit’ next to the location you’re shifting or ‘Add New’ if you’re opening a new branch and discontinuing the old one
- Enter the new address, select the correct nature of possession, and business activity at the location
Step 4: Upload Supporting Documents
Ensure you have the following documents handy:
- Rent agreement or electricity bill for the new premises
- NOC if the property is owned by someone else
- Latest utility bills or property tax receipts
Step 5: Verify and Submit
- Submit the application using DSC, EVC, or Aadhaar authentication
- An ARN (Application Reference Number) will be generated, which you can use to track the status
Usually, the changes are auto-approved unless the documents raise any flags.
Things to Keep in Mind After Updating
Once your additional place of business in GST is updated, make sure to:
- Start generating GST invoices from the new address using your online billing software
- Update your address on all business documents and the website
- Inform vendors and logistics partners of the new location
- Reconcile your books using your accounting software to match the new data
How Marg Books Can Simplify the Process?
Managing multiple business locations, especially in GST compliance, can be overwhelming. That’s where MargBooks steps in as your digital assistant.
MargBooks is not just another online billing software; it’s a complete business management tool tailored for Indian SMEs. Here’s how it helps:
1. Location-wise GST Management
Track invoices and stock movement from each branch, and generate GST-compliant reports specific to the additional location.
2. Real-Time Syncing
Update your address in one place, and it will reflect across all your invoices and reports instantly.
3. Hassle-free Accounting
MargBooks doubles as an intelligent accounting software, making sure your ledgers, GST filings, and cash flow reports are accurate post-shift.
4. Document Storage
Upload rent agreements, utility bills, and GST certificates securely so you can access them during audits or GST updates.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not updating the address within 15 days of shifting
- Forgetting to attach supporting documents
- Using the old address on new invoices
- Not informing your accountant or tax consultant
These small oversights can lead to bigger compliance issues later on. Be proactive.
Final Thoughts
Shifting your additional place of business in GST isn’t a complicated process, but it does require attention to detail. With the GST system increasingly becoming digital-first, it’s best to lean on technology like MargBooks, which blends smart billing, inventory, and GST features in one easy-to-use platform.
So, whether you’re expanding to a new city or moving to a better office space, make sure your GST profile reflects the change. Keep it compliant, keep it simple, and let your business grow without hiccups.
