What is the correct GST invoice format?

A GST-compliant invoice must include: supplier's name, address, and GSTIN; invoice number (unique, sequential); date of issue; recipient details and GSTIN; HSN/SAC codes; item description with quantity and value; tax rates and amounts (CGST, SGST, or IGST); total amount; and place of supply.

Is a specific invoice format mandatory under GST?

GST law doesn't prescribe a specific layout or design, but certain fields are mandatory. You can use any format (Word, Excel, PDF, software-generated) as long as all required fields under Section 31 and Rule 46 of CGST Rules are present.

What is the difference between a tax invoice and a bill of supply?

A tax invoice is issued for taxable supplies and includes GST details (rates, amounts). A bill of supply is issued by composition scheme dealers or for exempt supplies — it does not contain tax amounts and cannot be used to claim ITC.

How should invoice numbers be formatted?

Invoice numbers must be unique, sequential (no gaps), and can contain alphabets, numbers, and special characters (-, /). They should be generated in a consecutive series per financial year. Example: INV/2025-26/001, INV/2025-26/002.

When is HSN code mandatory on invoices?

Turnover up to ₹5 crore: 4-digit HSN code required. Turnover above ₹5 crore: 6-digit HSN code required. HSN codes help classify goods for correct GST rate application and are mandatory on all B2B invoices.

Can I create invoices without software?

Yes, you can create invoices in Word, Excel, or even handwritten — as long as all mandatory GST fields are included. However, using billing software like myBillPlease ensures compliance, automates calculations, and saves time.

Invoice Format Free Download — GST Invoice Template PDF Word Excel

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Key Components of an Invoice

A proper invoice should include these essential sections.

1. Header Section

Business identity and document metadata

Company name and logoGSTINAddress and contact detailsInvoice number and dateDue datePlace of supply

2. Party Details

Bill-to and ship-to information

Customer name and addressCustomer GSTINBilling addressShipping address (if different)State code

3. Items Table

Goods or services with tax breakdown

Item descriptionHSN/SAC codeQuantity and unitRate per unitDiscount (if any)Taxable valueCGST/SGST/IGST rate and amount

4. Tax Summary

Consolidated tax breakdown

Total taxable amountCGST totalSGST totalIGST totalCess (if applicable)Round-offGrand total in figures and words

5. Payment Details

Banking and payment information

Bank account details (name, A/C no, IFSC)UPI payment QR codePayment terms and due date

6. Terms & Authorization

Legal details and sign-off

Terms and conditionsDigital signatureNotes/remarks

How to Create an Invoice

Get your invoice ready in under 2 minutes.

1

Choose a Template

Pick from our professionally designed invoice templates

2

Add Your Business Details

Enter company name, GSTIN, address, and logo

3

Fill in Items & Tax

Add line items with HSN codes, quantities, and GST rates

4

Download & Share

Export as PDF, print, or share via WhatsApp/email

When to Use an Invoice

When selling goods or services to any business or individual
For all taxable supplies under GST (mandatory for registered businesses)
For claiming Input Tax Credit (ITC) — proper invoice format is a prerequisite
When you need a legally valid proof of sale for accounting and audit purposes
For export invoices — additional fields like shipping bill number may be required

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Stand out with documents that build trust and ensure compliance.

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All mandatory fields per GST Rules included

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Understanding the GST Invoice Format

A proper invoice format is essential for GST compliance in India. Under GST law (Section 31 of CGST Act), every registered taxable person must issue a tax invoice for supply of goods or services. The invoice serves as the primary document for claiming Input Tax Credit (ITC).

Mandatory Fields (Rule 46, CGST Rules)

Name, address, and GSTIN of the supplier
Consecutive serial number (unique for each financial year)
Date of issue
Name, address, and GSTIN/UIN of the recipient (if registered)
HSN code of goods or SAC code of services
Description of goods or services
Quantity, unit, and total value
Taxable value after discount
Rate and amount of CGST, SGST, IGST, and Cess
Place of supply and state code
Whether tax is payable on reverse charge basis
Signature or digital signature of supplier

Types of Invoices Under GST

Tax Invoice: Issued for all taxable supplies — the most common type
Bill of Supply: For exempt goods/services or by composition dealers
Receipt Voucher: Issued when advance payment is received before supply
Debit Note: Issued when the value or tax charged needs to be increased
Credit Note: Issued when the value or tax charged needs to be reduced

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Search and find the correct HSN or SAC code for your products and services.

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GST Invoice Format