Electronically Readable GST E-invoice from 1st of January 2020

CBIC introduced the revolutionary e-Invoice on GST system from 1st January 2020. The electronically readable invoice system will enable auto-population of e-way bills and GST returns which would eliminate the reconciliation problems. This system will require all the invoices generated to follow the standards set up by GSTN.

How is e-Invoice Different from the Current Process of Generating Invoice Electronically?

The e-Invoice is similar to the current process of generating invoice electronically, except for the fact that the e-invoices generated will have to follow the standard set by GSTN. The standardised format enables the invoice raised in one system readable to other system as well. In addition, this helps in reporting the invoices to the central system.

Generate in a Common Portal or any Changes Required?

Taxpayers can generate the e-Invoice in their own ERP system. Alternatively, they can generate e-invoice using any other software. No compulsion to generate in a common portal of the tax department or government.

No changes required at business front as the system adapted on voluntarily basis. However, the service providers who have ERP or billing software will have to make changes to their software in order to generate the invoices in the standardised format. The procedure to create an invoice remains the same.

What is the Procedure?

Once an e-invoice is generated in its standard format through the seller’s ERP system will generate an invoice in JSON format which will be uploaded to Invoice Registration Portal of GST (central system). This portal would check for the duplicates of the invoices and it will generate a unique Invoice Reference Number (IRN). In addition, it will also sign the invoice digitally and generate a QR code.

The QR code contains vital parameters of e-invoice. This code will be sent to the taxpayer who raised the invoice. The recipient of the document (buyer) will also receive the signed e-invoice sent by IRP on the email provided in the e-invoice.

What Next to Follow on GST

The implementation of the new e-invoices system important dates:

The e-invoice is voluntary for the following categories till 1st April 2020:

Business having a turnover of Rs.500 crore or more: They can adapt the e-invoice system on trial basis from 1st January 2020.

Businesses with turnover of Rs 100 crore or more: They can start on trial basis from 1st February 2020.

From 1st April 2020, the system is mandatory for the above-mentioned categories. However, businesses with turnover less than 100 crore can voluntarily use the system from April 1, 2020.

In conclusion, the e-invoice system will reduce tax evasions, duplicity and will ease the process of filing GST.

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