HOW CAN I SEARCH GST NUMBER ONLINE THROUGH PAN?
INTRODUCTION
The Goods and Services Tax (GST) is a single indirect tax that has replaced all the indirect taxes levied by the central and state governments in India. It was introduced on July 1, 2017. Every registered GST taxpayer is assigned a 15-digit unique identification number called the Goods and Services Tax Identification Number (GSTIN). The GSTIN is a state-specific unique number based on PAN.
How to search GST number online through PAN
- Go to the GST portal website: https://www.gst.gov.in/
- Click on the “Search Taxpayer” tab.
- Select the “Search by PAN” option.
- Enter the PAN number of the person or business whose GST number you want to search.
- Click on the “Search” button.
ADVANTAGES
Convenience: Online searches for a GST number using PAN can be convenient and quick. It eliminates the need for manual paperwork and visits to government offices.
Verification: It allows individuals and businesses to verify the authenticity of a GST number provided by a vendor or supplier. This is particularly important to ensure that you are dealing with legitimate and registered entities.
Data Accuracy: Online databases are generally kept up to date, ensuring that the information retrieved is current and accurate. This can help in making informed decisions and maintaining accurate records.
Cost-Efficiency: Searching for a GST number online is often free or available at a nominal cost compared to other methods, such as requesting information from tax authorities.
Speed: Online searches provide almost instant results, making it suitable for situations where time is of the essence, such as verifying GST numbers for business transactions.
DISADVANTAGES
Privacy Concerns: Searching for GST numbers using PAN online may raise privacy concerns. It’s essential to use such services responsibly and ensure that personal data is not misused.
Limited Information: Online searches may provide limited information about the GST-registered entity, such as the name and status of the business. More detailed information, such as contact details or address, may not be readily available.
Dependence on Online Services: Relying solely on online services for GST number verification may be problematic if the online database is inaccessible due to technical issues or downtime.
Possibility of Misuse: The ease of access to GST information through PAN can potentially be misused for fraudulent activities, such as identity theft or impersonation.
Incomplete or Outdated Data: While online databases strive to maintain accurate information, there can be instances of incomplete or outdated data, leading to incorrect results.
Legal Restrictions: Some jurisdictions may have legal restrictions on accessing GST information using PAN, especially for individuals or businesses that do not have a legitimate reason for the search.
Limited Information for Individuals: Searching for an individual’s GST number using their PAN may not yield results, as individuals are not always required to register for GST.
CONCLUSION
If you are unable to find the GST number of a person or business through the GST portal, you can try contacting them directly or searching for their GST number on a third-party website.
HOW AURIGA ACCOUNTING HELP YOU
Guidance and Instructions: Accounting firms can provide guidance on the process of searching for a GST number online using PAN. They can explain the steps involved and help individuals or businesses understand the necessary requirements.
Access to Databases: Some accounting firms may have access to specialized databases or tools that streamline the process of searching for GST numbers. They can leverage these resources to efficiently retrieve the required information.
Data Verification: Accounting professionals can verify the accuracy of the GST number obtained through the online search to ensure that it matches the details of the entity being searched for.
Compliance Assurance: Accounting firms can help individuals and businesses ensure that their use of online tools or services for GST number searches complies with relevant laws and regulations. This is important to avoid legal issues related to privacy and data protection.
Privacy and Security: Accounting firms can advise on privacy and security measures when conducting online searches, ensuring that personal or sensitive information is handled responsibly and securely.
Interpretation of Results: Once the search results are obtained, accounting professionals can help interpret the information and assess its relevance to the specific business transaction or purpose for which the search was conducted.
Cross-Verification: In cases where the online search raises doubts or concerns, accounting firms can assist in cross-verifying the GST information obtained through official channels or government authorities.
Documentation and Record-Keeping: They can help individuals and businesses maintain proper documentation and records of the GST number search, ensuring that they have evidence of their due diligence in verifying GST details.
Audit and Compliance Support: If the GST number search is part of an audit or compliance process, accounting firms can provide support by gathering and presenting the necessary documentation and information.
Consultation: Accounting firms may offer consultation services to help individuals and businesses understand the implications of the GST information obtained through the PAN-based search. They can advise on compliance requirements and any potential tax or legal obligations.
