The confusion among masses regarding different GST rates for various products and services is making people easily befooled by hoteliers and restaurants. There is a large number of eateries that are not GST registered but charge people taxes in the name of GST.
However, you can identify the fraudsters with a slight background information on different GST rates for different products.
How to identify GST fraud in Restaurants:
To know whether your dealer is registered for GST or not, you can check the GST number, a 15 digit number that is printed on the bill. Some restaurants even print a fake number to manipulate the customer. Now, this number can be verified through the website of Goods and Service Tax. If it is fake, you can make a complaint.
How a GST number look like:
The sixth character of GST number is either ‘P’ or a ‘C’, where P stands for people (individual business) and C stand for a company.
How much should be the GST charge:
1. Non AC/ non-alcohol serving restaurant or hotels should charge 12% GST
2. AC/ alcohol-serving restaurants or hotels should charge 18% GST
3. For takeaways, the GST should be 18%
Note: These are current GST rates, government can revise the tax rate from 18% to 12%, so be informed.
How to register a complaint about GST fraud:
a) Register your complaint on http://consumerhelpline.gov.in/; or
b) Call 1800114000 or 14404 or SMS on 8130009809
c) Email – nch-ca@gov.in, consumer-helpline@gov.in
d) GST portal – helpdesk@gst.gov.in, 0120-4888999, 011-23370115
e) Twitter handles- @jagograhakjago @consaff @askGST_Goi, @FinMinIndia
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