Quick Answer
To get a GST number for online selling, register free on the GST portal (gst.gov.in): complete Part A for a TRN, then Part B with your business + bank details and documents. You'll usually receive your GSTIN within 3–7 working days. Marketplaces like Amazon/Flipkart require it from day one; on your own store you must register once you cross ₹40 lakh turnover (goods) or ₹20 lakh (services). Once registered, every order needs a compliant GST invoice — which HOD Media generates automatically.
Do you actually need GST?
- Selling on Amazon/Flipkart/Meesho? Generally yes, from your first sale.
- Selling only on your own store? Required once you cross the threshold (₹40 lakh goods in most states; ₹20 lakh services). Below that it's optional — but many register early to claim input tax credit and to issue proper invoices.
- Inter-state supply or certain categories? May require registration regardless of turnover.
Documents to keep ready
- PAN (business or proprietor) and Aadhaar
- Passport-size photograph
- Business address proof (electricity bill / rent agreement / NOC)
- Bank proof (cancelled cheque or statement)
- For company/LLP: incorporation certificate, board resolution, etc.
Step-by-step on the GST portal (free)
- Go to gst.gov.in → Services → Registration → New Registration.
- Part A: select “Taxpayer”, enter state, PAN, mobile and email. Verify with OTP to get a TRN (Temporary Reference Number).
- Part B: log in with the TRN and fill business details, promoters, authorised signatory, principal place of business, goods/services (HSN), and bank details.
- Upload the documents and submit with Aadhaar OTP or DSC.
- Track status with your ARN; on approval you receive your GSTIN (usually 3–7 working days).
After you get your GSTIN
- Add your GSTIN to your store so invoices carry it.
- Make sure each order generates a compliant tax invoice (GSTIN, HSN, CGST/SGST/IGST). On HOD Media this is automatic.
- File your GST returns on time (a CA or accounting tool helps).
That's it — GST registration is free, mostly online, and once it's done your store can issue correct invoices on autopilot. New to selling? See GST for ecommerce sellers and the GST invoice format with an example.
How do I get a GST number for online selling in India?
Register free on the GST portal (gst.gov.in): go to Services → Registration → New Registration, fill Part A (PAN, mobile, email) to get a TRN, then complete Part B with your business and bank details and upload documents. After verification you receive your GSTIN, usually within about 3–7 working days.
Is GST registration mandatory for selling online in India?
If you sell through a marketplace like Amazon or Flipkart, GST registration is generally mandatory regardless of turnover. On your own store, you must register once you cross the threshold — ₹40 lakh turnover for goods in most states (₹20 lakh in some special-category states) and ₹20 lakh for services. Many sellers register early anyway to claim input credit and look professional.
What documents are needed for GST registration?
Typically: PAN of the business/proprietor, Aadhaar, a photograph, proof of business address (electricity bill/rent agreement/NOC), bank account proof (cancelled cheque or statement), and a digital signature or Aadhaar OTP for verification. Company/LLP sellers also need incorporation documents.
How much does GST registration cost?
Registration on the government GST portal is free. You only pay if you hire a CA or service to do it for you (often a few hundred to a couple of thousand rupees). There's no government fee for the GSTIN itself.
Do I need to issue GST invoices on every order?
Once registered, yes — each sale should have a compliant tax invoice with your GSTIN, HSN codes, and the correct CGST/SGST or IGST split. This is automatic on HOD Media: every order generates a GST invoice you and your customer can download.