GST
Full form: Goods and Services Tax
Tax & DeductionsGST is India's unified indirect tax (implemented July 2017) replacing VAT, service tax, and excise duty. Four main rates: 5%, 12%, 18%, 28%. Zero-rated for essentials like fresh food and healthcare.
In detail
Slabs: 0% (essentials), 5% (mass consumption), 12% (processed food, mobiles), 18% (most services, electronics, financial services), 28% (luxury, automobiles, tobacco). Input tax credit (ITC): businesses claim GST paid on purchases against collected on sales.
Formula
GST inclusive = Base price x (1 + GST rate)nGST amount = Inclusive price - Base pricenReverse: Base = Inclusive / (1 + GST rate)
Real-life example
🇮🇳 India example
Laptop base price Rs 50,000 + 18% GST = Rs 59,000 invoice. GST-registered employer claims Rs 9,000 ITC. Effective cost to company: Rs 50,000. Personal buyer bears full Rs 59,000.
Frequently asked questions
Is GST on stock market transactions? ▼
No GST on securities transactions directly. Brokerage charged by brokers attracts 18% GST. STT is separate from GST.