GST Invoice Format: A Complete Guide for Businesses and Freelancers
This blog post helps you create compliant and professional GST invoices using Excel, Word, or PDF—along with industry examples, downloadable templates, and common mistakes to avoid.
What is a GST Invoice?
A GST invoice is a document issued by a registered supplier to record the sale of goods or services. It includes details like GSTIN, HSN/SAC codes, tax rate, quantity, and applicable CGST/SGST/IGST. It’s mandatory for claiming Input Tax Credit (ITC).
For insights into numbering structure, visit our guide: GST Invoice Numbering Best Practices.
Mandatory Fields Checklist
- Supplier details: Name, address, GSTIN
- Invoice metadata: Invoice number, date
- Recipient details: Name, address, GSTIN (if registered)
- Item lines: Description, HSN/SAC, quantity, rate, taxable value
- Tax breakdown: CGST/SGST or IGST rates & values
- Total amount in words & figures
- Payment terms, due date, authorized signature
Formats: Excel, Word & PDF
Excel Templates
Use auto-calculation and drop-downs for easy invoice creation. Recommended resources:
Word & PDF
Word offers layout flexibility, while PDF ensures secure sharing. Try:
Step-by-Step: Creating a GST Invoice
- Set branding: Logo and company header
- Numbering: Unique invoice number like INV-25-0001
- Buyer details: GSTIN, state code
- Item information: HSN/SAC, unit, rate, tax
- Calculate tax: Apply correct GST rate
- Add terms: Payment terms, bank info
- Finalize: Total amount, signature, optional QR code
Need clarification on billing structure? Visit: GST Mentor Guide.
Industry-Specific Invoice Examples
- Retail: Bulk items, simplified HSN listing
- Freelancers: SAC code, hourly/project billing
- Transport: Freight charges, consignment details
- Restaurants: Item-wise GST, service charge
Explore real formats via Mazu GST Templates.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Incorrect HSN/SAC codes
- Wrong GST selection (IGST vs CGST/SGST)
- Duplicate invoice numbering
- Missing payment terms
- Amount not written in words
Download our internal checklist: GST Compliance PDF.
Templates & Online Generators
Also try our in-house tools: GST Calculator and HSN Code Finder.
Internal Tools & Tutorials
GST Rate Slabs Explained
Explore rate categories across goods and services, with real examples.