GST Return Update: What are new HSN/SAC Code Reporting Guidelines:

GST Return Update: What are new HSN/SAC Code Reporting Guidelines

Know the HSN/SAC code reporting requirements for GST returns in India, including turnover-based rules for B2B, B2C, and export sales compliance.

Key HSN Code Rules for GST Compliance Based on Turnover

authorSaloni KumaridateMay 28, 2025
Last update on May 28, 2025
GST Return Update: What are new HSN/SAC Code Reporting Guidelines Under the Goods and Services Tax (GST) regime in India, the declaration of HSN (Harmonized System of Nomenclature) codes in invoices is an important compliance requirement that varies depending on the type of sale, B2B (Business to Business) or B2C (Business to Consumer)โ€”and the annual turnover of the taxpayer. The HSN code assists in classifying goods and services for accurate taxation and reporting. For B2B sales, the use of HSN codes is mandatory across all types of goods, whether they are taxable, exempt, or nil-rated. If a business has an annual turnover of up to Rs. 5 crores, it is required to mention at least a 4-digit HSN code on invoices issued to other businesses. But, if the turnover increases more than Rs. 5 crores, the requirement becomes stricter, ordering a 6-digit HSN code. This rule ensures greater specificity and standardisation in business transactions and assists with cross-verification by the tax authorities. In contrast, for B2C sales, the compliance requirements are more relaxed for businesses with a lower turnover. If the turnover is up to Rs. 5 crores, mentioning a 4-digit HSN code is optional, regardless of whether the goods are taxable, exempt, or nil-rated. This provides some operational ease for smaller businesses that sell directly to consumers. However, once the turnover crosses Rs. 5 crores, the regulations coordinate with those of B2B transactions, and it becomes mandatory to mention a 6-digit HSN code in all B2C invoices. New Update: GSTN Birfucates GSTR-1/1A Table 12 in 2 sections for B2B and B2C Transactions B2B sales:
Nature Turnover upto Rs. 5 crores Turnover exceeds Rs. 5 crores
Taxable sales 4 digits of HSN are mandatory 6 digits of HSN are mandatory
Exempt sales 4 digits of HSN are mandatory 6 digits of HSN are mandatory
Nil-rated sales 4 digits of HSN are mandatory 6 digits of HSN are mandatory
B2C sales:
Nature Turnover upto Rs. 5 crores Turnover exceeds Rs. 5 crores
Taxable sales 4 digits of HSN are optional 6 digits of HSN are mandatory
Exempt sales 4 digits of HSN are optional 6 digits of HSN are mandatory
Nil-rated sales 4 digits of HSN are optional 6 digits of HSN are mandatory
Please note:
  • We will check the Aggregate Turnover PAN-wise instead of GSTIN-wise.
  • HSN code of 8 digits is mandatory for export sales.

About Author

Saloni Kumari

Content Writer

Saloni is a Content Writer with 2+ years of experience at studycafe.in. She writes legal, taxation, and finance related content including GST, Income Tax etc. Skilled in translating complex judicial pronouncements and regulatory developments into clear, and reader-friendly articles. Experienced in covering judgements of ITAT, High Court, GSTAT, and news related to Income Tax, GST, and corporate law. She can be reached at [email protected].
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