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GST on Shop Rent: Applicability, Limits, & HSN Codes

GST on Shop Rent: Applicability, Limits, & HSN Codes

By Dhaval Shah

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13th Aug, 2023

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3 min read

ON THIS PAGE
Is GST Applicable on Shop Rent?Understanding GST Limits for Shop RentDecoding HSN Codes for Shop Rent and Corresponding GST RatesFactors Influencing GST on RentCalculation of GST on Shop RentImpact of GST on Tenants and LandlordsFrequently asked questionsAbout PropReturns

Are you a landlord or tenant who is wondering about GST on shop rent? If so, you're in the right place. In this article, we'll talk about the applicability of GST on shop rent, the GST limits, and the HSN codes for shop rent. We'll also discuss some of the implications of GST on shop rent for landlords and tenants.

Is GST Applicable on Shop Rent?

Yes, it is.

When we talk about GST on rent, we're referring to the application of the Goods and Services Tax on the rental payments for specific types of properties. This situation arises when individuals or businesses decide to lease commercial spaces such as shops, offices, or warehouses to conduct their business operations.

Now, for the nitty-gritty details: the standard GST rate for shop rent is typically set at 18%. This percentage is applicable to a wide spectrum of commercial spaces that are rented out to accommodate various business activities. Interestingly, it's the landlord who shoulders the responsibility of paying the GST in this scenario. The landlord, in this context, is essentially viewed as the service provider, ensuring a smooth transaction process.

Reverse Charge Mechanism is not applicable in this case.

(Definition: Reverse Charge Mechanism is a tax collection mechanism under which the recipient of goods or services is liable to pay GST instead of the supplier. This is in contrast to the normal GST mechanism, where the supplier is liable to pay GST.)

Understanding GST Limits for Shop Rent

The threshold limits for GST applicability on shop rent are as follows:

For normal states: Annual rental income of more than Rs. 20 lakh.

For special states: Annual rental income of more than Rs. 10 lakh. (Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Jammu & Kashmir, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim, Tripura, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand)

If the annual rental income from a shop premises exceeds the threshold limit, the landlord is required to register for GST and charge GST on the rent. The GST rate on shop rent is 18%.

The turnover-based limits for GST registration are different for different types of businesses. For example, the turnover-based limit for a trader is Rs. 40 lakh, while the turnover-based limit for a manufacturer is Rs. 20 lakh.

If the annual turnover of a business exceeds the turnover-based limit, the business is required to register for GST.

The impact of exceeding the threshold limit for GST applicability on shop rent is that the landlord is required to register for GST and charge GST on the rent. The landlord is also required to file GST returns and pay GST on a monthly basis.

If the landlord does not register for GST and charge GST on the rent, they may be liable to pay penalty and interest.

Decoding HSN Codes for Shop Rent and Corresponding GST Rates

The Harmonized System of Nomenclature (HSN) functions as a global classification system for goods when they're passing through customs. HSN codes play a pivotal role in identifying goods and services for tax purposes, particularly under India's Goods and Services Tax (GST) system.

When we talk about shop rent services, they're marked with the HSN code 9972. This specific code is like a tagging mechanism, categorizing the rental of commercial spaces intended for business activities. And when it comes to the GST side of things, the tax rate for shop rent services is set at a steady 18%.

Remember, the landscape of GST rates for shop rent services might experience changes over time. To be on the safe side, it's always wise to stay updated with the latest GST laws and regulations before finalizing any decisions.

Factors Influencing GST on Rent

The GST applicability and rates on shop rent can be influenced by a number of factors, such as:

Location : The GST rate on shop rent may vary depending on the location of the shop premises. For example, the GST rate on shop rent in a metro city may be higher than the GST rate on shop rent in a tier-2 city. (Refer to this section: ‘Understanding GST Limits for Shop Rent’)

Property type : The GST rate on shop rent may also vary depending on the property type. For example, the GST rate on shop rent for a retail shop may be different from the GST rate on rent for an office space.

Calculation of GST on Shop Rent

The GST on shop rent is calculated by multiplying the GST rate by the taxable value of the rent. The taxable value of the rent is the amount of rent paid, excluding any taxes or cesses.

For example, if the GST rate on shop rent is 18% and the monthly rent is Rs. 1 lakh, then the GST payable will be Rs. 18,000.

The GST on shop rent is payable by the landlord, who is considered to be the service provider in this case. The landlord is required to collect GST from the tenant and deposit it with the government.

The landlord is also required to file a GST return every month, declaring the GST collected and paid.

GST = GST rate X Taxable value of rent

For example, if the GST rate is 18% and the taxable value of the rent is Rs. 1 lakh, then the GST payable will be:

GST = 18% X 1 lakh = Rs. 18,000

Here is a step-by-step guide on how to calculate GST on shop rent:

  1. Calculate the taxable value of the rent. This is the amount of rent paid, excluding any taxes or cesses. 2 Multiply the taxable value of the rent by the GST rate. This will give you the GST payable.
  2. Collect GST from the tenant.
  3. Deposit GST with the government.
  4. File GST return every month, declaring the GST collected and paid.

It is important to note that the GST laws and regulations are subject to change. It is always best to check with the latest GST laws and regulations before making any decisions about GST on shop rent.

Impact of GST on Tenants and Landlords

The implementation of Goods and Services Tax (GST) has brought significant changes for both tenants and landlords in India. Here's a breakdown of how it has impacted each group:

Impact on Tenants:

1. Cost Increase: For tenants, renting commercial spaces has become more expensive due to the addition of GST on the monthly rent.

2 .Cost Management: Some tenants have managed to absorb the increased cost, while others have passed it on to their customers.

3. Negotiations: Negotiating rent reductions with landlords has become trickier, as landlords are now more mindful of the potential GST-related revenue.

Impact on Landlords:

1. Compliance Burden: Landlords are now tasked with collecting GST from tenants and remitting it to the government, leading to an increased compliance workload.

2. Revenue Increase: Landlords, however, benefit from higher revenue due to the inclusion of GST in the monthly rent.

3. Additional Expenses: Registering for GST and filing GST returns have added to landlords' expenses, counteracting some of the revenue gains.

In essence, the effects of GST on tenants and landlords vary. Some tenants have adjusted to the raised costs, while landlords have grappled with the administrative load. The revenue gains for landlords have been balanced by the added compliance expenses. This shift has prompted a changed landscape in the rental sector, prompting both parties to adapt their strategies.

Frequently asked questions

Is GST applicable on shop rent?

Yes, GST is applicable on shop rent if the annual rental income exceeds Rs. 20 lakh for normal states and Rs. 10 lakh for special states.

What is the GST limit for shop rent?

The GST limit for shop rent is Rs. 20 lakh for normal states and Rs. 10 lakh for special states. This means that if the annual rental income from a shop premises exceeds the threshold limit, the landlord is required to register for GST and charge GST on the rent.

What is the HSN code for shop rent and GST rate?

The HSN code for shop rent is 997212. The GST rate on shop rent is 18%.

About PropReturns

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With PropReturns, we go the extra mile to offer our customers a comprehensive experience. We provide an end-to-end assistance for property investment and leasing, guiding clients through every step – from finding the ideal property to sealing the deal. Moreover, we extend support with legal formalities, fit-outs, and beyond, ensuring a seamless journey for our valued clients.

If you are looking to rent a commercial property, click here now.

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Dhaval Shah
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Likes being around people and engaging in meaning conversations. Enjoys a good football game with buddies once in a while.