Skip to content
GST

GST billing made simple: a guide for small businesses

Confused about GST invoices, HSN codes, and filing? This plain-English guide breaks down GST billing for Indian shopkeepers.

Team BillBasket 6 May 2026

GST basics every shopkeeper should know

If your business crosses the GST threshold, you need to issue GST-compliant invoices and file returns. It sounds complicated, but the essentials are straightforward.

A valid GST invoice needs:

  • Your GSTIN and the customer's (for B2B)
  • Invoice number and date
  • HSN/SAC codes for products or services
  • Taxable value and the CGST / SGST / IGST breakup

CGST, SGST, and IGST — what's the difference?

  • CGST + SGST apply for sales within your state
  • IGST applies for sales to another state

Good billing software calculates this split automatically, so you never have to do the math.

Common GST mistakes to avoid

  1. Missing or wrong HSN codes
  2. Incorrect tax rates on items
  3. Not reconciling sales before filing
  4. Losing invoices needed at filing time

How BillBasket keeps you compliant

BillBasket generates GST invoices with the correct tax split and HSN codes, and produces GSTR-ready reports so filing takes minutes, not days. It also supports non-GST billing if you're not yet registered.

Ready to simplify GST? Book a free demo.

Ready to modernise your billing?

Join the growing community of Indian businesses billing smarter with BillBasket. Get a free demo today — no credit card needed.