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GST Rate for Restaurant - Updated 2026 Slab & HSN Details

GST Rate for Restaurant - Updated 2026 Slab & HSN Details

📅 Published: March 20, 2026 | Updated: March 20, 2026

Understanding GST Rates for Restaurants in India

As of the effective date of 1st July 2017, the GST rate for restaurants in India is 5% without input tax credit (ITC) and 12% with ITC. The HSN/SAC code for restaurant services is 9963.

The GST council has notified the rates of GST for various services, including restaurant services. The rate of GST on restaurant services is as follows:

HSN/SAC Code Service Description GST Rate (%) Effective Date
9963 Restaurant services 5% (without ITC) / 12% (with ITC) 1st July 2017

It is essential to note that the GST rate for restaurants in India varies depending on the type of service provided. For example, the GST rate for outdoor catering services is 18% with ITC.

Restaurant Services and GST: A Detailed Breakdown

Composition Scheme vs Regular Scheme

Restaurants in India can opt for either the composition scheme or the regular scheme under GST. The composition scheme is available for restaurants with an annual turnover of up to ₹1.5 crores. Under this scheme, the GST rate is 5% without ITC.

The regular scheme, on the other hand, is available for restaurants with an annual turnover exceeding ₹1.5 crores. Under this scheme, the GST rate is 12% with ITC.

The following table highlights the key differences between the composition scheme and the regular scheme:

Scheme Annual Turnover GST Rate (%) ITC
Composition Scheme Up to ₹1.5 crores 5% No ITC
Regular Scheme Exceeding ₹1.5 crores 12% With ITC

It is crucial for restaurants to choose the right scheme to avoid any GST-related issues.

Comparison with Pre-GST Tax Regime

Prior to the introduction of GST, the tax regime for restaurants in India was complex and involved multiple taxes, including service tax, value-added tax (VAT), and luxury tax.

The pre-GST tax regime had a cascading effect, resulting in higher tax rates for restaurants. The introduction of GST has simplified the tax regime and reduced the tax burden for restaurants.

The following table compares the pre-GST tax regime with the GST regime:

Tax Type Pre-GST Rate (%) GST Rate (%)
Service Tax 15% 5% (without ITC) / 12% (with ITC)
VAT 12.5% - 20% 5% (without ITC) / 12% (with ITC)
Luxury Tax 10% - 20% Not applicable

The GST regime has reduced the tax burden for restaurants and simplified the tax compliance process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Input Tax Credit (ITC) and Compliance

Restaurants in India can claim ITC on inputs used for providing taxable services. The following are some frequently asked questions regarding ITC and compliance:

Restaurants must ensure that they comply with the GST regulations and claim ITC correctly to avoid any penalties or fines.

Calculator Widget

To calculate the total GST amount, restaurants can use the following calculator widget:

5% (without ITC) 12% (with ITC)

const basePriceInput = document.getElementById('base-price'); const gstRateSelect = document.getElementById('gst-rate'); const calculateGstButton = document.getElementById('calculate-gst'); const gstAmountParagraph = document.getElementById('gst-amount'); calculateGstButton.addEventListener('click', () => { const basePrice = parseFloat(basePriceInput.value); const gstRate = parseFloat(gstRateSelect.value); const gstAmount = basePrice * (gstRate / 100); gstAmountParagraph.textContent = `Total GST amount: ₹${gstAmount.toFixed(2)}`; });

Compliance Tips

Restaurants in India must ensure that they comply with the GST regulations to avoid any penalties or fines. The following are some compliance tips for restaurants:

  1. Maintain accurate and detailed records of all transactions, including invoices, receipts, and payment vouchers.
  2. Ensure that all invoices and receipts are properly numbered and dated.
  3. Claim ITC correctly and comply with the GST regulations.
  4. File GST returns on time and avoid any delays.
  5. Conduct regular audits to ensure compliance with the GST regulations.

By following these compliance tips, restaurants can ensure that they comply with the GST regulations and avoid any penalties or fines.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the GST rate for restaurants in India without input tax credit?

5%

What is the GST rate for restaurants in India with input tax credit?

12%

What is the HSN/SAC code for restaurant services?

9963

When did the GST rate for restaurants in India become effective?

1st July 2017

Who notifies the rates of GST for various services, including restaurant services?

The GST council

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