GST (Goods and Services Tax) is a mandatory tax for businesses in India. Every registered business is issued a unique GSTIN (Goods and Services Tax Identification Number). However, in recent years, there has been a rise in the misuse of fake or invalid GST numbers, especially among unregistered vendors. That’s why it’s important to verify if a GST number is original or fake.
Platforms like Effizentseele help individuals and small businesses register for GST with proper documentation and compliance. They also guide users in identifying genuine GST credentials when dealing with clients or vendors.
What Is a GSTIN?
A GSTIN is a 15-digit alphanumeric code assigned to every taxpayer registered under the GST system in India. Here’s what each part means:
- First 2 digits: State code
- Next 10 digits: PAN of the registered business
- 13th digit: Registration number under the same PAN in the state
- 14th digit: By default, “Z”
- 15th digit: Check code used for error detection
If any part of this format looks incorrect, it may indicate a fake GST number.
Why It’s Important to Verify GST Numbers
Using or accepting fake GST numbers can result in penalties, legal trouble, or fraudulent transactions. If you’re a customer, you might be paying taxes that aren’t deposited to the government. If you’re a business owner, input tax credit (ITC) may get rejected for invoices linked to fake GSTINs.
Verifying a GST number ensures that:
- The vendor is registered with the GST department.
- Tax collected from you is deposited properly.
- Your input tax credit claims are valid.
How to Verify a GSTIN Online
The Government of India provides a free and simple tool to check the authenticity of any GST number. Follow these steps:
- Visit the GST portal: https://www.gst.gov.in
- Click on the “Search Taxpayer” option in the top menu.
- Select “Search by GSTIN/UIN”.
- Enter the GSTIN you want to verify and the captcha code.
- Click “Search”.
If the GSTIN is valid, the portal will display details like the business name, registration date, state, and status (active or inactive). If the GSTIN is fake or incorrect, the portal will show an error.
Key Things to Check While Verifying
When you get the GST details from the portal, cross-check the following:
- Legal Name of the Business – Match it with the invoice or vendor name.
- Constitution of Business – Check if it matches the business type (proprietorship, partnership, etc.)
- Status – Make sure it says “Active”. An inactive status might mean cancellation or fake use.
- State – Ensure the state code in the GSTIN matches the business’s address.
Any mismatch could be a red flag.
Common Signs of a Fake GST Number
Some common ways fraudsters fake GST numbers:
- Typing random 15-digit numbers that follow the GSTIN format.
- Copying a valid GSTIN from another business.
- Using a cancelled or inactive GSTIN to create fake invoices.
Always verify before accepting invoices, especially from new or unknown vendors.
Can Effizentseele Help with GST-Related Queries?
Yes, Effizentseele provides end-to-end support for GST registration, return filing, and compliance. If you are opening a GST Suvidha Kendra or working as a GST consultant, they also offer proper tools and guidance to check GSTIN authenticity for clients and vendors. Their team ensures that you or your customers don’t fall prey to fake GST practices.
Final Thoughts
Verifying a GST number is a simple yet powerful step to protect yourself from fraud. Whether you’re a business, a service provider, or even a customer, always double-check the GST number before trusting any invoice. With government tools and expert support from platforms like Effizentseele, staying GST-compliant is easier and safer than ever.
