How to check if a GST number is valid
To check a GST number, enter the 15-character GSTIN in a GST search tool such as the free REFFNET GST search or the official GST portal’s “Search Taxpayer”. A valid GSTIN shows a legal name, address, registration date and status. If the status is not “Active”, or the name doesn’t match the invoice, ask the business before you pay.
Step by step
- Look at the format. A GSTIN has exactly 15 characters, for example
24ABCDE1234F1Z5: 2 digits, 10 characters of the PAN, 1 entity character, the letterZ, and 1 check character. Anything else is a typing mistake or not a GSTIN. See GSTIN format explained. - Search it. Enter it in the free REFFNET GST search or on the GST portal (services.gst.gov.in → Search Taxpayer → Search by GSTIN/UIN).
- Check the status. It should say Active. A Cancelled or Suspended registration can’t charge GST in the normal way. See what “cancelled” means.
- Match the name. The legal or trade name and the state must match the invoice, quotation and the bank account you are asked to pay.
- Look at the filing history. Regular GSTR-3B returns are a good sign. See how to check filing status.
What a valid result does and doesn’t tell you
An active GSTIN tells you the business is registered for GST and who it is registered to. It does not tell you whether the business will deliver on time or pay you. For that, look at its filing regularity, how long it has been registered, and what other businesses say about dealing with it.
Questions people ask
Can I check a GST number for free?
Yes. The REFFNET GST search and the GST portal’s Search Taxpayer are both free and need no login.
What does the first two digits of a GSTIN mean?
They are the state code where the business is registered, for example 24 for Gujarat, 27 for Maharashtra and 07 for Delhi.
The GSTIN shows a different name than the invoice. What should I do?
Ask the supplier to explain before paying. The legal name on the GST record should match the business that invoices you and the bank account you pay.