GST Composition vs Regular Scheme

    Compare GST composition scheme with regular scheme for small businesses — rates, compliance, and input credit.

    CriteriaComposition SchemeRegular Scheme
    Turnover Limit₹1.5 Cr (goods), ₹50L (services)No upper limit
    Tax Rate1-6% (flat, no input credit)5-28% (but input credit available)
    Input Tax CreditNot availableAvailable (reduce tax liability)
    Return FilingQuarterly (simpler)Monthly (more complex)
    Invoice TypeBill of Supply (no GST charged)Tax Invoice (GST charged to buyer)
    Inter-State SalesNot allowedAllowed

    Our Verdict

    Composition scheme is simpler and cheaper for small businesses selling to end consumers. Regular scheme is necessary for B2B businesses (buyers need input credit), inter-state sellers, and those with significant input tax to claim.

    Detailed Analysis

    Small businesses under GST must choose between composition and regular schemes — the right choice impacts both cost and compliance burden.

    Composition scheme offers a simplified flat-rate tax (1% for manufacturers, 5% for restaurants, 6% for service providers) with quarterly returns. The trade-off: no input tax credit and no inter-state sales. Best for local businesses selling to consumers.

    Regular scheme charges standard GST rates but allows input tax credit on purchases. If your inputs have significant GST (raw materials, services), the net tax may actually be lower than composition rate. Monthly filing is more work but essential for B2B operations.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    More Comparisons