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Verify & Decode GSTIN
Live
★★★★★
"I verify all vendor GSTINs before issuing purchase orders. This tool is bookmarked on every team member's browser."
Suresh Menon — Purchase Manager, Bangalore
★★★★★
"Caught a wrong GSTIN from a supplier before claiming ITC. Would have faced reversal without this check."
Nita Shah — Accounts Head, Surat
★★★★☆
"The colour-coded breakdown of the GSTIN is excellent for training new accounts staff on GST structure."
CA Rajesh Kumar — Chartered Accountant, Delhi
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I verify a GSTIN in India?+
Use this tool to validate the GSTIN format, checksum, state code, and PAN embedded in the number. For live status (Active/Cancelled), visit gst.gov.in → Search Taxpayer → Search by GSTIN. Both checks are recommended before processing any purchase invoice for ITC.
What is the difference between GSTIN and PAN?+
PAN is a 10-character income tax identifier. GSTIN is a 15-character GST identifier that includes your state code (positions 1–2) and your PAN (positions 3–12). Every GSTIN embeds the taxpayer's PAN. A business can have one PAN but multiple GSTINs (one per state it operates in).
Can a business have multiple GSTINs?+
Yes. A business operating in multiple states must register in each state and gets a separate GSTIN per state. The 13th character (entity number) increments for multiple registrations in the same state. Each state GSTIN has separate return filing requirements.
Is it mandatory to verify vendor GSTIN before claiming ITC?+
Yes, strongly recommended. ITC can only be claimed from valid, active GSTINs. Using a cancelled or fake GSTIN leads to ITC reversal, interest at 24% p.a., and potential penalties. Verify both the format (using this tool) and live status (on the GST portal) before finalising invoices.
What is the GST checksum algorithm?+
The 15th character of a GSTIN is calculated using a Luhn-like algorithm on the first 14 characters. Each character is mapped to a numeric value (0–9, A–Z = 10–35), multiplied by alternating weights of 1 and 2, and the products are summed modulo 36 to produce the check digit. This tool performs this calculation automatically.