GST on Services offers an exhaustive, point-by-point analysis of the GST law as it applies to services. Authored by a renowned expert with decades of experience in indirect taxation, the book combines theoretical knowledge with practical insights, helping readers navigate the ever-evolving GST framework. Within its comprehensive scope, the commentary tackles fundamental GST concepts—like supply, reverse charge, input tax credit, time and place of supply, and valuation—while also delving into nuanced issues in various sectors (IT & software, construction, banking, healthcare, travel, etc.). It incorporates all amendments introduced by the Finance Act 2025 and recent judicial decisions and notifications, ensuring you have the most current legal positions.

This book is intended for the following audience:

• Chartered Accountants, Cost Accountants & Company Secretaries – Detailed references, illustrations, and analyses make it an essential resource for compliance, advisory, and litigation support
• Corporate Tax & Finance Professionals – Comprehensive guidance on implementing GST processes, especially for service-focused businesses (including IT services, e-commerce, event management, logistics, etc.)
• Lawyers & Tax Consultants – In-depth commentary on critical sections and rules, supplemented by case laws and legal interpretations
• Government Officers & GST Practitioners – Clarity on policy intent, departmental positions, and practical complexities in the day-to-day administration of GST on services

The Present Publication is the 3^rd Edition | 2025, amended by the Finance Act 2025. This book is authored by S.S. Gupta with the following noteworthy features:

• [Latest Amendments] Incorporates all changes brought in by the Finance Act 2025, providing up-to-date commentary and clarifications
• [In-depth Sectoral Analysis] Separate divisions cover general GST provisions and service-specific aspects (e.g., Banking, Insurance, IT, Hospitality, Construction, etc.).
• [Comprehensive Scope] Covers everything from basic definitions and charging provisions (supply, reverse charge, etc.) to procedural compliance (TDS, TCS, registration, returns)
• [Practical Illustrations] Uses practical examples and scenarios—like online ticket booking, software development contracts, restaurant services—to demonstrate intricate points of law
• [Clear Structuring] The content is arranged in logical divisions and chapters, making it easy to navigate. Appendices include essential rate schedules, exemption lists, and reverse-charge notifications
• [Expert Authorship] The author’s broad expertise—ensures a robust interpretation, supported by case laws and departmental clarifications
• [Practical Focus] Incorporates examples, recent circulars, departmental FAQs, and updated compliance requirements. Special emphasis is placed on complex transactions in the service sector, including online platforms, software licensing, e-wallets/vouchers, events and media, etc.
• [User-friendly Approach] Each chapter highlights possible pitfalls, compliance tips, and illustrations to clarify intricate legal provisions. A separate segment on judicial precedents ensures you remain current on the latest interpretations from courts and tribunals

The coverage of the book is as follows:

• Division One – Overview of GST
  • Basic Concepts & Definitions (Chapter 1)
  • Scope of Supply & Levy (Chapter 2)
  • Non-Taxable Supplies (Chapter 3)
  • Reverse Charge Mechanism (Chapter 4)
  • Time & Place of Supply, Rate Changes (Chapters 5 & 6)
  • Valuation, Job Work, E-Commerce (Chapters 7–9)
  • Exemptions & Composition Levy (Chapters 11–12)
  • Export & Import of Services (incl. SEZ) (Chapter 13)
  • Registration Requirements (Chapter 14)
  • Taxable Person, Invoicing, and Credit/Debit Notes (Chapter 15)
  • Refunds & Waiver Schemes (Chapters 16 & 16A)
• Division Two – Input Tax Credit
  • Concept of Input, Input Services, Capital Goods (Chapters 17–19)
  • Utilisation of ITC (Chapter 20)
  • Conditions & Time Limits for Availment (Chapter 21)
  • Common Inputs for Exempt & Taxable Supplies (Chapter 22)
  • Job Work & Removal of Inputs/Capital Goods (Chapters 23–24)
• Division Three – GST Provisions for Specific Services
  • Detailed coverage of over 70 distinct service categories, including:
  • IT & Software Services (Chapter 48) – as illustrated by the sample chapter on Online Information and Database Access or Retrieval services (OIDAR)
  • Banking & Financial Services (Chapters 30 & 41)
  • Construction & Real Estate (Chapters 36, 37)
  • Entertainment & Hospitality (Chapters 40, 42)
  • Transportation & Logistics (Chapters 43, 44, 71, 72)
  • Healthcare & Education (Chapters 39, 46)
  • E-Commerce, Event Management, Telecommunication, Security, etc.
• Appendices
  • Rate Schedules (CGST & exempt services), Reverse-charge notifications, TDS/TCS provisions, and relevant clarifications

The structure of the book is as follows:

• Logical Division of Topics – The book is split into three main divisions—General Provisions, Input Tax Credit, and Industry-Specific Services—ensuring clarity and easy reference
• Chapter-by-chapter Commentary – Each chapter follows a consistent pattern—starting with statutory references, moving on to conceptual explanations, practical scenarios, FAQs, and case law references, and concluding with important takeaways or summary points
• Appendices & Annexures – The concluding section includes essential government notifications, clarifications, and forms/checklists—handy for day-to-day GST compliance
• Cross-referencing – The commentary cross-refers related provisions from other chapters to give you a holistic view

About the author

S.S. Gupta

The author is a member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India, the Institute of Cost and Works Accountants of India and the Institute of Company Secretaries of India.

The academic record right from the college days was excellent. The author has received various scholarships and prizes from Institutions like JRD Tata Merit Scholarship, Narsee Monjee College Merit Scholarship, Sydnam Golden Jubilee’s Scholarship etc.

Before commencement of practice, the author served in the industry for six years in indirect taxation. Since 1988, the author has been practising in the field of indirect tax only.

The author has contributed extensively to the field of indirect taxation in various seminars/lectures. The author is also a faculty member in the colleges/institution to teach indirect taxation and is associated with various social organisations. The author has also written the book ‘Service Tax – How to Meet Your Obligations’, which is widely referred to by Trade and Industry.