Understanding GST Time of Supply for Goods and Services

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  • 12/06/2025
The Goods and Services Tax (GST) is a significant tax reform introduced in India to simplify the taxation system and promote ease of business. One of the critical aspects is determining the GST time of supply, which plays a pivotal role in calculating the liability of a taxpayer. Understanding the time of supply for goods, services, rate changes, and payment scenarios is crucial for businesses to comply with GST regulations efficiently. In this blog, we will delve deep into these aspects, shedding light on the complexities and nuances that taxpayers encounter.

Time of Supply for Goods

Specific rules and regulations govern the time of supply for goods under GST. Let’s explore these rules in detail:

  1. Date of Invoice

   – As per Section 31 of the CGST Act, 2017, the time of supply for goods is the one that occurs before the other one:
  1. Date of issue of the invoice or the last date on which the invoice must be issued.
  2. Date of receipt of payment.
   – This rule is straightforward when goods are supplied with an invoice. However, in scenarios where the invoice is not issued within the prescribed time, the time of supply becomes more complex.

  1. Date of Removal

   – When the goods are removed for supply to a recipient, the time of supply is determined based on the removal date. This primarily applies to the supply of goods where the movement of goods is involved.

  1. Date of Delivery

   – If the goods are not removed, the time of supply is considered the delivery date to the recipient.

  1. Continuous Supply

   – In a continuous supply of goods, the time of supply is determined by the date of completion of the event triggering the supply. This could be the receipt of goods or the date the recipient records the supply in their books of accounts, whichever is earlier.

  1. Unregistered Recipient

   – When goods are supplied to an unregistered recipient, and the recipient is liable to pay tax under reverse charge, the time of supply is the date of receipt. Understanding these rules is essential for businesses dealing in goods. It helps in accurately determining the time of supply under GST and in maintaining proper records for compliance.

Time of Supply for Services

The time of supply for services under GST is governed by its rules, which differ from those for goods. Let’s delve into the regulations for services:

  1. Date of Invoice

   – Similar to goods, the time of supply for services is determined by the date of issue of the invoice or the last date on which the invoice must be issued.

  1. Date of Receipt of Payment

   – In the absence of an invoice or when the invoice is issued beyond the prescribed period, the time of supply is the date of receipt.

  1. Continuous Supply

   – Just like in the case of goods, the continuous supply of services has specific rules. The time of supply is determined by the date of completion of the event triggering the supply or the date on which the recipient records the supply in their books of accounts, whichever is earlier.

  1. Reverse Charge Mechanism

   – When services are provided by an unregistered supplier to a registered recipient, the time of supply is the date of receipt of services. The registered recipient is liable to pay tax under the reverse charge mechanism.

  1. Completion of Services

   – For services completed before the issuance of an invoice or receipt of payment, the time of supply is the date of completion of the service. Understanding the time of supply for services is critical for service providers as it determines their GST liability and compliance with GST laws.

Time of Supply for Rate Changes

GST rates can change from time to time, and these rate changes impact the time of supply. Let’s explore how rate changes affect the time of supply:

  1. Change in Rate before Time of Supply

   – If the rate of GST changes before the time of supply for goods or services, the new rate is applicable. The time of supply is determined based on the effective rate at the time of supply.

  1. Change in Rate after Time of Supply

   – If the rate of GST changes after the time of supply, it does not affect the supply value or the tax liability. The original rate at the time of supply remains applicable.

  1. Continuous Supply with Rate Change

   – In continuous supply of goods or services with a rate change, the rate at each event triggering the supply is applicable. The impact of GST rate changes can be challenging to navigate, as businesses need to keep a close watch on GST notifications and apply the correct rate to their supplies.

Time of Supply for Advance Payments

Advance payments are standard in business transactions. Under GST, it is essential to understand how these advance payments are treated for the determination of the time of supply:

  1. Date of Receipt of Advance

   – If an advance payment is received before the issuance of an invoice, the time of supply is the date of receipt of the advance.

  1. Date of Issue of Invoice

   – If the invoice is issued before receiving the advance payment, the time of supply is the date of the invoice.

  1. Continuous Supply with Advance Payments

   – In continuous supply with advance payments, the time of supply is determined based on the due date of the invoice or receipt of the payment, whichever is earlier.

GST Time of Supply Guidelines in Special Scenarios

There are specific scenarios where determining the GST time of supply guidelines becomes complex. Let’s explore a few of these exceptional cases:

  1. Reverse Charge Mechanism

   – When a registered recipient is liable to pay tax under the reverse charge mechanism, the time of supply is the date of receipt of goods or services.

  1. Unregistered Dealers

   – When a supplier sells to an unregistered dealer, the time of supply is the earlier of
  1. Date of entry in the supplier’s books.
  2. Date of receipt of payment.

  3. Change in the Effective Rate of Tax

   – If the effective rate of tax changes due to an exemption or inclusion of certain goods or services, the time of supply is determined based on the effective rate at the time of supply.

  1. Composite or Mixed Supply

   – In cases of composite or mixed supply, multiple goods or services are bundled together. Tips to Ensure Correct Determination of Time of Supply for Goods captainbiz gst time of supply In the world of Goods and Services Tax (GST), determining the time of supply for goods is a critical factor in calculating your tax liability. Accurate determination is essential for maintaining compliance and avoiding potential penalties or disputes with tax authorities. To help you navigate this complex aspect of GST, here are some valuable tips to ensure that the time of supply for goods is correctly determined:
  • Document Management: Maintaining accurate and up-to-date documentation is the foundation for correctly determining the time of supply. Ensure that invoices, receipts, and records are organised and readily available for reference.
  • Date of Invoice: Always issue invoices promptly. The invoice date plays a crucial role in determining the time of supply. Delayed invoices can lead to incorrect calculations.
  • Payment Records: Keep detailed records of payment receipts and reconcile them with invoices. The payment date can also influence the time of supply, so accuracy is essential.
  • Continuous Supplies: If your business involves continuous supplies of goods, identify the events that trigger the time of supply and ensure these events are recorded accurately.
  • Delivery Documentation: When goods are not invoiced but delivered, ensure proper documentation of delivery dates. This is especially important when dealing with items like perishable goods or products with short shelf lives.
  • Reverse Charge Mechanism: If you are a recipient under the reverse charge mechanism, record the date of receipt of goods accurately to determine the correct time of supply.
  • Rate Changes: Stay informed about changes in GST rates, as they can impact the time of supply. Use the rate applicable at the time of supply to avoid discrepancies.
  • Accounting Software: Implement robust accounting software or systems that can automatically calculate the time of supply based on the data you input. This can significantly reduce errors.
  • Regular Training: Ensure your finance and accounting teams are well-informed about GST regulations. Regular training can help in correctly applying the rules.
  • Seek Professional Guidance: When in doubt or when dealing with complex transactions, consult with tax professionals who have expertise in GST. They can provide valuable insights and guidance.
  • Review and Audit: Periodically review your records and conduct internal audits to identify any discrepancies or errors in determining the time of supply. Timely corrections can prevent issues in the future.
  • Compliance Software: Invest in compliance software designed explicitly for GST. These tools can streamline the process, reducing the chances of errors.
Correctly determining the time of supply for goods is vital for ensuring GST compliance and managing your tax liabilities efficiently. By following these tips and staying well-informed about GST regulations and updates, you can navigate the complex GST landscape confidently and accurately, minimising the risk of errors and penalties.

Conclusion

The GST time of supply rules is a critical concept, as it determines when a taxpayer is liable to pay tax. Understanding the rules and regulations governing the time of supply for goods and services, dealing with rate changes, and handling advance payments is essential for businesses to ensure GST compliance. In this blog, we have explored the intricate details of the time of supply for goods, services, and different scenarios. Businesses must stay updated with GST regulations, as changes in rates and evolving business practices can impact the time of supply. With a clear understanding of these concepts, businesses can streamline their operations, maintain compliance, and avoid any unnecessary penalties or legal issues related to GST. In the ever-evolving landscape of taxation, staying informed and adapting to the changes is critical to the success and growth of businesses in the GST era. For more information on GST and deemed exports, visit CaptainBiz.

FAQs

1) What happens when the GST rate changes?

If the GST rate undergoes a modification, the time of supply is established according to the prevailing rate at the moment of the supply. This adjustment can have implications for the tax liability associated with the transaction.

2) What is the time of supply for services?

The time of supply for services is ascertained based on whichever of the following occurs earlier: the date of invoice issuance or the date of payment.

3) What happens if the customer pays for the supply after the time of supply?

If the customer settles the payment for the supply after the designated time, it does not alter the time of supply itself. The liability remains calculated based on the initial time of supply.

4) How is the time of supply affected by the rate changes in GST?

Changes in GST rates impact the time of supply by modifying the relevant rate. The time of supply is determined based on the rate that is applicable at the time of the supply, and this may change as a result of rate adjustments.

5) What is the tax invoice referred to in Section 31 of the CGST Act 2017?

Under the GST regime, an “invoice” or “tax invoice” means the tax invoice referred to in Section 31 of the CGST Act, 2017. This section mandates the issuance of an invoice or a bill of supply for every supply of goods or services or both. A person supplying goods or services or both must issue an invoice.

6) What is the definition of “Value of Supply”?

The “Value of Supply” is determined based on the transaction value when the price is the primary consideration, among other specified factors.

7) What is the due date of the invoice for goods?

For goods, the registered person must issue the invoice before or at the time of:
  • Goods removal
  • Goods delivery, as per Section 31(1)

8) What elements must be included in the value of supply?

The value of supply comprises the transaction value along with:
  • Recipient’s payment to third parties on behalf of the supplier.
  • Incidental expenses like commission, packing, inspection, and testing charges.
  • Supplier’s interest or late fee for delayed payment.
  • Subsidies from entities other than the Central and state governments.

9) Can a supplier subtract post-sale discounts from an invoice after providing goods or services?

Yes, a supplier can deduct post-sale discounts if these conditions are met:
  • A discount agreement existed during the supply.
  • The recipient reverses proportionate ITC.
  • The discount is linked to the invoice.
  • The supplier issues a credit note.

10) If goods or services are supplied under a contract made under the previous tax law, which tax should be paid?

GST is applicable to these supplies, as per section 142(10) of the CGST Act.

Avoid GST compliance issues by mastering time of supply rules for goods and services.

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Nandini Marwah Co-Founder
Nandini Marwah is a seasoned finance writer with a solid academic foundation, holding both a master's and bachelor's degree in economics. She specializes in making complex financial topics accessible to a broad audience. Her passion lies in dissecting macro and microeconomics, particularly delving into consumer behavior and market structures.
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