In Singapore’s business ecosystem, the Goods and Services Tax (GST) is a fundamental part of the economy. For any business that crosses the revenue threshold or chooses to register voluntarily, the GST Registration Number becomes a vital part of its corporate identity.
This number isn’t just an administrative requirement; it is a legal necessity for issuing tax invoices and claiming GST refunds. For customers and partners, verifying this number is a key part of due diligence to ensure they are paying tax to a legitimate, registered entity.
This guide provides a clear breakdown of what a GST Registration Number is, how to verify one instantly, and the steps your business needs to take to obtain its own from the Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore (IRAS).
Key Takeaways
- The Definition: A unique number issued by IRAS to businesses registered to collect the 9% GST.
- Format: For most companies, it is the UEN followed by a specific suffix (usually starting with ‘M’).
- Verification: You can verify any GST number using the official IRAS Search for GST-Registered Businesses portal.
- Mandatory Threshold: Registration is compulsory if your taxable turnover exceeds S$1 million annually.
- Invoicing Requirement: Registered businesses must display their GST number on all tax invoices and receipts.
What is a GST Registration Number?
A GST Registration Number is a unique identifier assigned to a business by IRAS. Once a business is registered, it acts as an agent for the government to collect the 9% GST from customers and remit it to IRAS.
The Meaning and Format
In Singapore, the government has simplified identifiers through the “One UEN” initiative.
- For Companies (Pte Ltd), the GST number is usually their Unique Entity Number (UEN) followed by a suffix (e.g., 202412345M).
- For Sole Proprietors or Partnerships, the number may follow a different alphanumeric format (e.g., M2-1234567-X).
Having this number signifies that the business is legally authorized to charge GST. If a business charges you GST but cannot provide a valid registration number, they may be committing fraud.
How to Verify a GST Registration Number
Before you pay an invoice that includes GST, it is best practice to verify that the supplier is actually registered. This ensures you can safely claim the “Input Tax” back in your own filings.
Step-by-Step Verification:
- Visit the IRAS Portal: Go to the IRAS Search for GST-Registered Businesses tool.
- Enter the Details: You can search by the business name or, more accurately, by the GST Registration Number or UEN.
- Check the Status: The tool will display if the business is “Currently Registered,” “Deregistered,” or “Not Found.”
- Verify the Effective Date: Ensure the business was registered on the date the invoice was issued.
The GST Application Process: Compulsory vs. Voluntary
In Singapore, businesses fall into two categories regarding GST registration:
1. Compulsory Registration
You must register for GST if:
- Retrospective View: Your taxable turnover at the end of any calendar year (since Jan 1, 2019) exceeds S$1 million.
- Prospective View: You can reasonably expect your taxable turnover to exceed S$1 million in the next 12 months.
2. Voluntary Registration
If your turnover is below S$1 million, you can still apply to register. This is often done to allow the business to claim back the GST paid on inputs (like rent and equipment), which can be beneficial for businesses with high startup costs or those selling to other GST-registered companies.
How to Apply for GST Registration: Step-by-Step
If your business meets the criteria, follow these steps to get your number:
- Complete the E-Learning Course: For voluntary registration (and some compulsory cases), the business director must complete the “GST 101” e-learning course and pass the quiz.
- Log in to myTax Portal: Access the IRAS myTax Portal using your business’s CorpPass.
- Submit the Application: Navigate to “GST” -> “Apply for GST Registration.” You will need to provide:
- Your UEN.
- Financial projections or past turnover figures.
- Bank account details for GST refunds.
- Wait for Approval: IRAS typically processes applications within 10 working days.
- Receive Your Number: Once approved, you will receive a “Notification of GST Registration” letter containing your GST Registration Number and your effective date of registration.
Did You Know?
Once you are GST-registered, you are legally required to remain registered for at least two years if you registered voluntarily. During this time, you must file your GST returns (usually quarterly) even if you have no transactions to report.
Ready to Scale Your Singapore Business?
Streamline your financial operations with a unified payment platform designed for the Lion City. Accept PayNow, cards, and digital wallets effortlessly while keeping your finances reconciled and compliant.
Conclusion: Compliance as a Foundation for Growth
Your GST Registration Number is more than just a tax ID; it is a sign of your business’s growth and maturity in the Singapore market. By understanding how to verify these numbers and navigating the application process correctly, you protect your business from compliance risks and ensure a smooth financial relationship with IRAS. As you scale, having a clear and verified tax profile builds trust with your corporate clients and simplifies your journey toward becoming a leading player in the Lion City.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is my UEN the same as my GST number?
For most companies registered after 2009, they are identical or very similar. However, you should always check your official IRAS registration letter to confirm the exact format you must use on your invoices.
2. Can I charge GST while my application is still pending?
No. You can only start charging GST from the effective date of registration stated in your IRAS approval letter. Charging GST before this date is illegal.
3. What happens if I forget to display my GST number on an invoice?
Failure to display your GST registration number on a tax invoice is a breach of the GST Act. It may result in penalties from IRAS and could prevent your customers from claiming the tax back.
4. How do I deregister for GST?
If your taxable turnover drops below S$1 million and is expected to stay there, or if you close your business, you can apply for deregistration via the myTax Portal.
