Guide · Invoices
GST invoice format: what to include and how to make one
Updated 21 October 2026 · 8 minute read
If you sell goods or services in India and are registered for GST, you must give the buyer a tax invoice. A clear, complete invoice saves arguments with customers and trouble at filing time. This guide lists what a GST tax invoice normally contains, how the tax is split, and how to make one in a few minutes.
What a GST tax invoice usually shows
- Seller details: name, address and GSTIN.
- Invoice number and date: a unique number, in a running series, and the date of issue.
- Buyer details: name, address, and the GSTIN if the buyer is registered.
- Items: a description for each item, its HSN code (or SAC for services), the quantity and the rate.
- Taxable value: the value of each item before tax, after any discount.
- Tax: the GST rate and amount, shown as CGST and SGST, or as IGST.
- Total: the grand total in figures, and usually in words.
- Place of supply and, where it applies, a signature or the name of the person signing.
CGST, SGST or IGST?
When the seller and the buyer are in the same state, the tax is split in two equal parts: CGST for the central government and SGST for the state. When they are in different states, the whole tax is charged as IGST. For example, 18% GST on an item sold within one state is shown as 9% CGST plus 9% SGST; sold to another state it is 18% IGST.
Tax invoice, bill of supply or cash receipt?
- A tax invoice is for a taxable sale by a registered seller.
- A bill of supply is for sales that carry no GST, or by sellers who cannot charge it.
- A cash receipt is simple proof that a payment was received, for example over the counter or for an advance.
Make an invoice with the free generator
- Open the GST Invoice & Receipt generator.
- Choose Tax Invoice (GST) or Cash Receipt.
- Fill in your business name, GSTIN and state. Save them as a template so you can load them next time.
- Add the buyer details and each item with its HSN code, quantity, rate and GST percentage.
- Check the live preview, then download the PDF or print it.
The generator picks CGST and SGST for the same state and IGST for a different state, adds up every line, and writes the grand total in words using lakh and crore. It lays out the invoice from the numbers you enter; it does not check your GSTIN with the GST portal or file any return.
Tips for tidy invoices
- Keep one invoice series and never reuse a number.
- Use the same item descriptions every time, so your records are easy to match.
- Keep a copy of every invoice you issue, with the date and the buyer.
- Put a copy in the parcel for online orders, and keep the PDF for your accountant.
Private by design
The invoice is made in your browser. Your customers’ names and addresses and your saved business details are not uploaded; they stay on your own device.
Frequently asked questions
What should a GST invoice include?
The seller name, address and GSTIN, an invoice number and date, the buyer details, a description of each item with its HSN code, quantity, rate and taxable value, the CGST and SGST or IGST amounts, and the total.
When do I charge IGST instead of CGST and SGST?
When the seller and the buyer are in different states. When both are in the same state the tax is split into CGST and SGST.
Can I make a GST invoice for free?
Yes. The invoice generator on this site is free, needs no sign-up and adds no watermark. You can download the PDF or print it.
Does the generator check my GSTIN?
No. It lays out the invoice from the numbers you enter. Check your GSTIN and the correct rate or HSN code with your accountant or the GST portal.
Is my business data uploaded?
No. The invoice is made in your browser, and your draft and saved details stay on your device.