How to Check GST Number

Every business operating in India under the Goods and Services Tax (GST) regime is assigned a unique 15-digit GST Identification Number (GSTIN). This number is not just a regulatory requirement—it is the digital fingerprint of a business in the GST ecosystem. Whether you’re verifying a supplier’s legitimacy, reconciling invoices, processing B2B transactions, or ensuring compliance during audits, knowing how to check a GST number is an essential skill for finance professionals, accountants, procurement officers, and business owners alike.

The GSTIN is structured to reflect the state code, PAN of the entity, check digit, and other identifiers, making it both machine-readable and human-verifiable. A valid GST number ensures that the business is registered under the GST portal, eligible to collect and remit taxes, and can issue compliant tax invoices. Conversely, an invalid or fake GST number can expose your business to financial risk, input tax credit (ITC) reversal, and legal penalties under Section 122 of the CGST Act.

This comprehensive guide walks you through every method to verify a GST number, from official government portals to third-party tools, with real-world examples, best practices, and common pitfalls to avoid. By the end of this tutorial, you will have a complete, actionable framework for validating GST numbers with confidence and precision.

Step-by-Step Guide

Method 1: Verify GST Number via the Official GST Portal

The most authoritative and reliable way to check a GST number is through the Government of India’s official GST portal. This method ensures real-time validation against the central GST database and is recommended for all formal business transactions.

Step 1: Open the GST Portal

Navigate to https://www.gst.gov.in/ using any modern web browser. Avoid using outdated browsers or public Wi-Fi networks for security reasons.

Step 2: Access the Search Function

On the homepage, locate the “Services” menu at the top. Hover over it and click on “Search Taxpayer” from the dropdown. This will redirect you to the GST taxpayer search page.

Step 3: Select Search Criteria

You will see three options: “Search by GSTIN/UIN”, “Search by PAN”, and “Search by Name”. For verifying a GST number, select “Search by GSTIN/UIN”. Enter the 15-digit GSTIN in the provided field. Ensure there are no spaces, hyphens, or special characters. GSTINs are alphanumeric and always 15 characters long.

Step 4: Complete the CAPTCHA

A visual CAPTCHA will appear. Carefully enter the characters displayed. If the CAPTCHA is unclear, click the refresh icon to generate a new one. Incorrect entries will prevent submission.

Step 5: Submit and Review Results

Click “Search”. Within seconds, the system will display the taxpayer’s details, including:

• Legal name of the business
• Trade name (if any)
• State and district of registration
• PAN number linked to the GSTIN
• Date of registration
• Taxpayer type (e.g., Regular, Composition, UIN, etc.)
• Active/Cancelled status

If the GSTIN is invalid or not registered, you will receive a message: “No record found.”

Pro Tip: Always cross-check the legal name and PAN with the supplier’s official documents. A mismatch in any of these fields may indicate a fraudulent or mismatched GST number.

Method 2: Verify GST Number Using PAN

If you only have the Permanent Account Number (PAN) of a business and not the GSTIN, you can still retrieve the associated GSTINs. This is particularly useful when dealing with multiple registrations under the same PAN (e.g., multiple branches in different states).

Step 1: Go to the GST Portal

Return to https://www.gst.gov.in/ and navigate to “Services” → “Search Taxpayer”.

Step 2: Choose “Search by PAN”

Select the “Search by PAN” option. Enter the 10-digit PAN in uppercase without any spaces or special characters (e.g., ABCDE1234F).

Step 3: Enter CAPTCHA and Search

Complete the CAPTCHA and click “Search”. The system will display all GSTINs linked to that PAN, along with the corresponding state and registration status.

This method is invaluable for businesses with multiple state registrations, as a single PAN can have multiple GSTINs—one for each state. For example, a company headquartered in Maharashtra with branches in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka will have three different GSTINs, all tied to the same PAN.

Method 3: Verify GST Number via SMS

For users without immediate access to a computer or internet, the GST portal offers an SMS-based verification service. This method is less detailed but useful for quick validation during field operations or vendor visits.

Step 1: Compose the SMS
Open your mobile messaging app and type: GSTIN <15-digit GSTIN>. For example: GSTIN 27AABCC1234D1Z5

Step 2: Send to the Designated Number
Send the message to 7737299999. Ensure your mobile number is registered and has sufficient balance.

Step 3: Receive Response

Within 1–2 minutes, you will receive an SMS reply with the business name, state, and registration status. Note: This method does not return the PAN or trade name, so it’s best used for basic validation only.

Method 4: Use the GSTN Mobile App

The GSTN (Goods and Services Tax Network) has developed an official mobile application for taxpayers and businesses. Available on both Android and iOS, the app allows on-the-go GST number verification.

Step 1: Download the App

Search for “GSTN” in the Google Play Store or Apple App Store. Download and install the official app published by “National Informatics Centre (NIC)”.

Step 2: Launch and Navigate

Open the app and tap on “Search Taxpayer” from the main menu. Select “By GSTIN” or “By PAN” based on your available data.

Step 3: Enter Details and Verify

Input the GSTIN or PAN, complete the CAPTCHA, and tap “Search”. The app displays the same data as the web portal, including status, name, and registration date.

Advantage: The app works offline for previously searched records and sends push notifications for updates on taxpayer status changes.

Method 5: Validate GST Number via Excel or Bulk Tools

For businesses managing hundreds of vendors, manually checking each GSTIN is inefficient. Excel-based validation and bulk verification tools can automate this process.

Step 1: Prepare Your Data

Create an Excel sheet with a column labeled “GSTIN”. Enter all GST numbers in a single column, one per row. Ensure no leading/trailing spaces.

Step 2: Use a Third-Party Bulk Validator

Several trusted platforms offer bulk GSTIN validation via API integration. Examples include ClearTax, Zoho Invoice, and Tally. These tools allow you to upload your Excel file and receive a report indicating valid, invalid, or inactive GSTINs.

Step 3: Download and Review Results

After processing, download the report. It will flag discrepancies such as:

• Invalid check digit (15th digit)
• Incorrect state code (first two digits)
• PAN mismatch
• Cancelled or suspended status

Best Practice: Integrate bulk validation into your vendor onboarding workflow. Never allow a vendor to be paid or receive an invoice without a verified GSTIN.

Best Practices

Always Verify Before Processing Payments or Invoices

Never assume a GST number is valid just because it appears on an invoice or website. Fraudulent entities often generate fake GSTINs to claim input tax credit illegally. Always verify the GSTIN using the official portal before accepting any invoice for accounting or ITC claims.

Check the GSTIN Format Before Entering

A valid GSTIN follows a strict 15-character format:

• First 2 digits: State code as per the Indian Census (e.g., 27 for Maharashtra, 33 for Kerala)
• Next 10 digits: PAN of the entity
• 13th digit: Entity code (1 for main place of business, A-Z for additional places)
• 14th digit: Always ‘Z’
• 15th digit: Check digit (calculated using modulo 33 algorithm)

Use a simple formula in Excel to validate the structure:

=AND(LEN(GSTIN)=15,
CODE(LEFT(GSTIN,1))>=65, CODE(LEFT(GSTIN,1))<=90,
CODE(MID(GSTIN,2,1))>=65, CODE(MID(GSTIN,2,1))<=90,
ISNUMBER(--MID(GSTIN,3,8)),
CODE(MID(GSTIN,11,1))>=65, CODE(MID(GSTIN,11,1))<=90,
MID(GSTIN,14,1)="Z",
ISNUMBER(--MID(GSTIN,15,1)) OR CODE(MID(GSTIN,15,1))>=65)

This checks for correct length, alphanumeric structure, and fixed positions. While it doesn’t validate the check digit, it filters out most malformed entries.

Monitor Status Changes Regularly

GST status can change from “Active” to “Cancelled” or “Suspended” due to non-filing of returns, fraud, or voluntary surrender. Set up a monthly audit of your vendor list. Use bulk tools or export data from the GST portal to compare against your records. If a vendor’s GSTIN is cancelled retroactively, you may be liable to reverse any ITC claimed on invoices issued after the cancellation date.

Document Your Verification Process

For audit readiness, maintain a log of all GSTIN verifications. Include:

• Date of verification
• GSTIN verified
• Business name as per portal
• Verification method used (portal, SMS, app)
• Result (Valid/Invalid)
• Screen capture or report reference

This documentation serves as evidence of due diligence in case of a tax audit or ITC scrutiny by the GST department.

Never Rely on Third-Party Websites for Critical Decisions

Many websites claim to offer “GST number checker” services. While some are legitimate, others may be phishing sites collecting your data. Always use the official GST portal (gst.gov.in) or certified third-party tools with clear privacy policies. Avoid entering GSTINs or PANs on unverified domains.

Train Your Team on GST Validation Protocols

Finance, procurement, and accounts teams should receive annual training on GSTIN verification. Include real case studies of fraud, such as fake invoices issued by shell companies with fabricated GSTINs. Reinforce that verification is not optional—it’s a compliance requirement.

Tools and Resources

Official Tools

• GST Portal (gst.gov.in) – The primary source for all GST-related validations. Updated in real time.
• GSTN Mobile App – Official Android and iOS app for mobile verification.
• GSTN API for Developers – Businesses with ERP systems can integrate the GSTN API for automated GSTIN validation. Documentation is available on the GST portal under “Developer Resources”.

Third-Party Tools (Trusted)

• ClearTax GSTIN Validator – Offers free single and bulk validation. Integrates with accounting software.
• Zoho Invoice – Automatically validates GSTIN during invoice creation and flags invalid entries.
• Tally.ERP 9 – Built-in GSTIN validation feature. Syncs with GSTN database for real-time checks.
• Khatabook – Popular among SMEs; validates GSTIN during vendor creation and invoice generation.

Browser Extensions

Some browser extensions, like “GSTIN Checker” for Chrome, allow one-click validation when you copy a GSTIN from a webpage. While convenient, use only extensions from verified publishers. Always review permissions before installation.

APIs for Enterprise Integration

For large enterprises, integrating GSTIN validation into ERP systems like SAP, Oracle, or Microsoft Dynamics is critical. The GSTN provides a RESTful API that returns JSON responses with taxpayer details. Developers must register for API access via the GST portal and obtain an authentication token.

Sample API endpoint:

https://api.gst.gov.in/returns/validate-gstin?gstin=27AABCC1234D1Z5

Response includes:

{
"status": "success",
"data": {
"gstin": "27AABCC1234D1Z5",
"legalName": "ABC Enterprises Pvt Ltd",
"tradeName": "ABC Store",
"stateCode": "27",
"pan": "AABCC1234D",
"status": "Active",
"registrationDate": "2020-07-15"
}
}

Use this API to automate vendor onboarding, invoice processing, and reconciliation workflows.

Government Publications and Guides

• CGST Rules, Rule 54 – Mandates verification of GSTIN before claiming ITC.
• CBIC Circular No. 134/04/2020-GST – Clarifies procedures for verifying GSTIN during audits.
• GST Handbook (CBIC) – Available for free download on gst.gov.in. Includes sample GSTIN formats and validation logic.

Real Examples

Example 1: Valid GSTIN Verification

GSTIN: 27AABCC1234D1Z5

Verification Steps:

1. Enter into GST Portal → “Search by GSTIN”
2. CAPTCHA entered correctly
3. Result returned:

• Legal Name: ABC Enterprises Private Limited
• Trade Name: ABC Store
• PAN: AABCC1234D
• State: Maharashtra (State Code 27)
• Status: Active
• Registration Date: 15-07-2020

Conclusion: Valid. The GSTIN matches the PAN, state code, and format. Business is active. Invoice can be accepted for ITC.

Example 2: Suspended GSTIN

GSTIN: 33AABCC1234D1Z5

Verification Result:

• Legal Name: XYZ Traders
• Status: Suspended
• Reason: Non-filing of GSTR-3B for 6 consecutive months

Action Required: Do not accept any invoice from this entity for ITC. Any credit claimed after the suspension date will be reversed, with interest and penalty under Section 74.

Example 3: Fake GSTIN (Invalid Check Digit)

GSTIN: 27AABCC1234D1Z9

Verification Result: “No record found.”

Analysis: The first 14 digits are valid, but the 15th digit (check digit) is incorrect. This is a manually fabricated number. The correct check digit for this PAN and state code is ‘5’, not ‘9’.

Conclusion: This is a fraudulent GSTIN. The vendor may be attempting to evade taxes or claim illegitimate ITC. Terminate engagement.

Example 4: Multiple GSTINs Under One PAN

PAN: AABCC1234D

Search Result:

• 27AABCC1234D1Z5 – Maharashtra
• 33AABCC1234D1Z5 – Kerala
• 29AABCC1234D1Z5 – Karnataka

Conclusion: This is a multi-state business. Each GSTIN is valid and corresponds to a different state registration. Ensure invoices are issued from the correct GSTIN matching the place of supply.

Example 5: GSTIN from a Cancelled Entity

GSTIN: 06AABCC1234D1Z5

Result: “Cancelled”

Details: Registration cancelled on 12-01-2023 due to non-compliance.

Implication: Any invoice received from this entity on or after 12-01-2023 is invalid. ITC claimed on such invoices must be reversed, and the business may be liable for penalties.

FAQs

Can I check a GST number without internet?

Yes, you can use the SMS service by sending “GSTIN <number>” to 7737299999. You’ll receive a basic reply with the business name and status. However, for full details, internet access to the GST portal is required.

What if the GSTIN I checked shows “Cancelled”?

Do not accept any invoice from this entity for input tax credit. If you’ve already claimed ITC on invoices issued after the cancellation date, you must reverse the credit, pay interest, and potentially face a penalty under Section 74 of the CGST Act.

Is it mandatory to verify GSTIN before accepting an invoice?

Yes. Rule 54 of the CGST Rules mandates that a recipient must verify the GSTIN of the supplier before claiming input tax credit. Failure to do so may result in disallowance of ITC during audits.

Can two businesses have the same GSTIN?

No. Each GSTIN is unique and tied to a specific PAN and state. However, one business with multiple locations in different states will have multiple GSTINs, all linked to the same PAN.

How do I know if a GSTIN is fake?

A fake GSTIN may:

• Have incorrect state code (e.g., 00, 99, or non-existent codes)
• Have a 14th digit other than ‘Z’
• Have a 15th digit that doesn’t match the modulo 33 check digit algorithm
• Fail to return any data on the GST portal

Always cross-check with the official portal.

Can I use a GSTIN from a different state?

You can receive an invoice from a supplier registered in another state. However, the GSTIN on the invoice must match the state where the supplier is registered. The place of supply determines whether IGST or CGST+SGST applies, not the recipient’s state.

What happens if I enter a wrong GSTIN in my invoice?

If the recipient’s GSTIN is incorrect on your invoice, the recipient cannot claim ITC. You may be required to issue a credit note and reissue a correct invoice. Repeated errors may attract scrutiny from tax authorities.

Do I need to verify GSTIN for every transaction?

For recurring vendors, verify once during onboarding. However, re-verify quarterly or if there’s a change in status. For new vendors, verify every time before processing payment or accepting an invoice.

Is GSTIN verification required for B2C transactions?

No. B2C invoices (to consumers without GST registration) do not require GSTIN verification. However, for B2B invoices, verification is mandatory.

Can I check a GST number for a foreign company?

Foreign companies without a physical presence in India are not assigned a GSTIN. They may have a UIN (Unique Identity Number) for specific purposes like diplomatic missions or UN agencies. UINs are 15 digits but start with “99”. Use the same GST portal to search UINs.

Conclusion

Verifying a GST number is not a formality—it is a critical compliance and risk management step in India’s GST ecosystem. A single unverified GSTIN can expose your business to financial loss, legal liability, and audit penalties. By following the methods outlined in this guide—using the official GST portal, validating via PAN, leveraging mobile tools, and integrating automated checks—you ensure that every transaction you process is secure, compliant, and audit-ready.

Remember: GSTIN verification is not a one-time task. It must be embedded into your business processes. Train your team, document your checks, use trusted tools, and always cross-reference data. In an environment where tax fraud is increasingly sophisticated, due diligence is your best defense.

As the GST regime evolves with new rules, e-invoicing mandates, and real-time reporting, the ability to validate GST numbers accurately and efficiently will remain a cornerstone of financial integrity. Start today. Verify every number. Protect your business.