What Is GST (Goods and Services Tax)?

GST (Goods and Services Tax) is a single, unified indirect tax applied to the sale of most goods and services in India, replacing a range of earlier state and central taxes.

Common GST Rate Slabs

GST in India is typically charged at a few standard slabs — commonly 0%, 5%, 12%, 18%, and 28% — depending on the category of goods or services. Essentials are often taxed lower or exempt; luxury and “sin” goods are taxed higher.

GST-Inclusive vs. GST-Exclusive

  • GST-exclusive: the listed price doesn’t include GST — it’s added on top at checkout/billing.
  • GST-inclusive: the listed price already has GST baked in — useful for figuring out the base price and tax amount from a final price.

Businesses need to move between these two regularly — for invoicing, billing, and understanding margins.

Try It Yourself

Use our free GST Calculator to calculate GST inclusive or exclusive amounts instantly — enter your amount and rate to get the base price, GST amount, and total.