How to Create GST Invoice Online in 5 Simple Steps
Complete guide to creating GST-compliant invoices online. Free templates, step-by-step instructions, and expert tips included.
1. What is a GST Invoice?
A GST invoice is a legal document issued by registered suppliers under the Goods and Services Tax (GST) system in India. It serves as proof of sale and enables input tax credit claims for businesses.
Key Features of GST Invoice:
- Contains supplier and buyer GSTIN details
- Includes HSN/SAC codes for goods/services
- Shows detailed tax breakup (CGST, SGST, IGST)
- Enables input tax credit for businesses
2. Mandatory Fields Required in GST Invoice
Supplier Information
- Company Name & Address
- GSTIN Number
- State Name & Code
- Contact Details
Buyer Information
- Customer Name & Address
- GSTIN (if registered)
- State Name & Code
- Place of Supply
Invoice Details
- Invoice Number & Date
- HSN/SAC Codes
- Item Description & Quantity
- Unit Price & Total Value
Tax Information
- GST Rate (5%, 12%, 18%, 28%)
- CGST & SGST or IGST
- Total Tax Amount
- Final Invoice Amount
3. Step-by-Step GST Invoice Creation Process
Set Up Your Company Details
Enter your business information including company name, address, GSTIN, and contact details. This information will appear on all your invoices.
- • Legal business name as per GST registration
- • Complete business address with pincode
- • 15-digit GSTIN number
- • State name and state code
Add Customer Information
Input your customer's details including name, address, and GSTIN if they are registered. For unregistered customers, enter their address and state.
- • Customer name (individual or business)
- • Billing address with state and pincode
- • GSTIN (if registered) or mention "Unregistered"
- • Place of supply for tax calculation
Enter Product/Service Details
Add items with descriptions, HSN/SAC codes, quantities, and unit prices. The system will calculate totals automatically.
- • Product/service name and description
- • HSN code for goods or SAC code for services
- • Quantity and unit of measurement
- • Unit price and total amount before tax
Calculate GST and Total Amount
Select the appropriate GST rate and let the system calculate CGST, SGST, or IGST based on the place of supply.
- • Choose GST rate: 0%, 5%, 12%, 18%, or 28%
- • Intra-state: CGST + SGST (9% + 9% for 18% GST)
- • Inter-state: IGST (18% for 18% GST rate)
- • Final amount = Taxable value + GST amount
Generate and Download Invoice
Review all details, generate the GST invoice, and download as PDF. You can also email or share via WhatsApp directly.
- • Review all entered information for accuracy
- • Generate invoice with unique invoice number
- • Download PDF or share electronically
- • Save customer and product details for future use
Watch Complete Video Tutorial
See how to create GST invoices step-by-step in our detailed video guide
4. Understanding GST Tax Calculations
Intra-State Supply (CGST + SGST)
Inter-State Supply (IGST)
GST Rate Guide
- • 0% - Essential items (milk, vegetables)
- • 5% - Household necessities
- • 12% - Processed foods, computers
- • 18% - Most goods and services
- • 28% - Luxury items, automobiles
- • Same state: CGST + SGST
- • Different state: IGST only
- • Union Territory: CGST + UTGST
- • Export: 0% with IGST refund
5. Common Mistakes to Avoid
Incorrect GSTIN Format
Using wrong GSTIN format or entering invalid numbers.
Wrong HSN/SAC Codes
Using incorrect or outdated HSN/SAC codes for products/services.
CGST/SGST vs IGST Confusion
Applying CGST+SGST for inter-state or IGST for intra-state transactions.
Missing Invoice Serial Number
Not maintaining sequential invoice numbering or using duplicate numbers.
6. Compliance Best Practices
Record Retention
Maintain all GST invoices and records for minimum 6 years as per GST law. Store both physical and digital copies securely.
Timely Filing
File GSTR-1 by 11th of next month. Ensure all invoices are uploaded to GST portal within due dates to avoid penalties.
E-Invoicing
Businesses with turnover >5Cr must generate e-invoices through IRP portal. Obtain IRN and QR code for each invoice.
E-Way Bill
Generate e-way bill for goods movement >50,000. Required for inter-state transport and some intra-state movements.
7. Free Online Tools to Create GST Invoices
Try FreeGSTBill Invoice Generator
Create professional GST invoices in seconds - No signup required
GST Invoice Generator
Create GST-compliant invoices with automatic tax calculations
Try Free Tool →8. Frequently Asked Questions
Can I create GST invoices without GST registration?
No, you need a valid GSTIN to issue GST invoices. However, you can create non-GST invoices for your business transactions if you're not registered.
Is it mandatory to mention HSN/SAC codes?
Yes, HSN codes (for goods) and SAC codes (for services) are mandatory on GST invoices. Use minimum 4-digit HSN for goods and 6-digit SAC for services.
What is the difference between CGST, SGST, and IGST?
CGST (Central GST) and SGST (State GST) apply to intra-state transactions and are split equally. IGST (Integrated GST) applies to inter-state transactions and includes the full tax amount.
How long should I keep GST invoice records?
GST law requires maintaining all invoice records for a minimum of 6 years from the end of the financial year. Keep both digital and physical copies.
Can I edit a GST invoice after generation?
Once issued, GST invoices should not be edited. If corrections are needed, issue a credit/debit note or create a revised invoice with proper documentation.
Ready to Create Your GST Invoice?
Start using our free online tools or register for the complete billing solution