VAT number (& CST number)

In order to sell products within India, we need to register for a Sales Tax or VAT (Value-Added Tax) number.

• 1. Locate the office of the Central Sales Tax Office in your city.

  2. Approach either the Public Relations Officer's desk there, or go directly to the Registration Department and collect the forms.

  3. We needed the following supporting documentation along with the form:

     • Company's PAN Card

     • Director's PAN Card copy

     • Partnership Deed (For partnership)

     • Two proofs of Director's residence - I used my passport and a phone bill

     • Two proofs of place of business - we used our Leave & License agreement, and the electricity bill

     • Court Fee Stamps and Demand Draft

  4. You need to ask for the one related to Voluntary Registration (VRS). You will need a Chartered Accountant or a Sales Tax Professional to sign on the form.

NOTE: Important thing to keep in mind is that VAT returns need to be filed every quarter, and you will need to get a qualified CA who is capable of auditing and signing-off on VAT returns. Failure to submit return on time would attract penalty of Rs. 5000 for each return.