Electronic invoicing under GST, known as e-Invoicing, is a way businesses can create invoices electronically. It is similar to how GST-registered businesses use electronic waybills when moving goods. Some specific GST-registered businesses are required to generate e-invoices for their transactions with other businesses (B2B).
E-Invoice, also known as Electronic Invoicing, is a system where all B2B invoices are electronically uploaded and verified on a specific portal. After successful verification, a unique Invoice Reference Number (IRN) is generated for each invoice by the IRP(Invoice Registration Portal). Additionally, each invoice is digitally signed and equipped with a QR code. This entire procedure is referred to as e-invoicing under GST.
GST (goods and services tax) e-invoicing minimizes the possibility of evasion of tax because all transactions are reported in real time, and the same is available for examination by the tax authorities. As the invoices get verified prior to uploading them, it reduces the chances of fraud.
By introducing the e-invoicing mechanism, the process of compliance is greatly simplified as it is a standard format that every supplier needs to provide. Incorrect GST details, HSN codes, or tax rates are no longer an issue for businesses — the system takes care of that!
As an e-invoicing system automatically fills up GST returns, it helps businesses handle their GST filings in a more streamlined manner. Also, the integration with GSTN facilitates accurate data transfer, which ultimately minimizes the time spent on filing returns and claiming input tax credits (ITC).
The e-invoicing will lead to higher transparency in the GST system. Invoices can be accessed in real-time by tax authorities and businesses, enabling better visibility into transactions and streamlined auditing processes.
Paperwork, storage, and administrative costs are significantly reduced by generating invoices electronically, as there is no need for documentation in this process. It can also help to minimize human errors associated with manual data entry.
Top GST E-Invoicing Company states that with e-invoicing, businesses are able to connect their accounting and ERP systems with the GSTN platform. This allows for seamless data exchange between both, with less manual work and reduced risk of errors.
There is a specific workflow that is followed for e-invoicing to validate and report transactions:
Therefore, for the successful implementation of GST e-invoicing, businesses must prepare the following documents for creating and submitting invoices:
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Who does e-invoicing apply to?
E-invoicing currently applies to GST-registered persons whose aggregate turnover exceeded Rs. 20 crore in any previous financial year from 2017-18 to 2021-22. Starting from August 1, 2023, it will apply to those with a turnover of more than Rs. 5 crore up to Rs. 10 crore, with some exceptions.
Can an e-invoice be partially canceled?
No, an e-invoice cannot be partially canceled. It can only be canceled in its totality. If canceled, it must be reported to the Invoice Registration Portal (IRP) within 24 hours. Any cancellation attempts after this period must be done manually on the GST portal before filing returns.
Is bulk uploading of invoices for IRN generation possible?
No, invoices must be uploaded one by one to the IRP. Each business's ERP system needs to be designed to request the upload of individual invoices.
Can e-invoices be generated on the common GST portal?
No, e-invoices will continue to be generated on individual ERP software used by businesses. The invoice must follow the e-invoicing standard format and include mandatory parameters. There are currently no plans to directly generate invoices on a common portal.
What types of documents need to be reported to the IRP?
E-invoices, credit notes, debit notes, and any other documents as notified under the GST law must be reported to the IRP as part of the e-invoicing process.