Goods and Services Tax (GST) is a comprehensive, indirect tax levied on the supply of goods and services in India. Goods and Services Tax was introduced in 2017 to replace various indirect taxes levied by the central and state governments. In this article, we will understand the applicability of GST on health insurance in India.
Is GST applicable on Health Insurance in India?
GST on health insurance in India is applicable at the standard rate of 18%. Health insurance premiums are taxable under GST, whether they are purchased for individual or family coverage.
GST Registration for Health Insurance Companies
All businesses with an annual turnover of more than 40 lakh rupees are required to register for Goods and Services Tax . Businesses with a turnover of less than 40 lakh rupees have the option to get Voluntary GST Registration
Health insurance companies and agents selling health insurance policies are required to register for GST Goods and Services Tax if their annual turnover exceeds the threshold of 40 lakh rupees and 20 lakh rupees in special category states.
The process for online GST registration is as follows:
- Obtain a PAN(Permanent Account Number) for your business.
- Go to the GST portal
- Click on the “New Registration” tab
- Enter the PAN and other details as prompted
- Fill out the GST registration application form and submit the required documents
- The GST registration application will be processed and, upon approval, a GSTIN (GST Identification Number) will be issued
GST Return Filing for Health Insurance Companies
GST registered businesses are required to file periodic GST returns. The frequency of GST return filing depends on a number of factors.
GST Compliance
GST compliance is important for health insurance companies and agents in order to avoid penalties and legal action.
Non-compliance with GST can result in the imposition of fines and penalties, and in severe cases, the cancellation of the GST registration.
To ensure GST compliance, health insurance companies and agents should:
- Register for GST if required
- File GST returns on time
- Keep accurate records of sales, purchases, and GST paid or collected
- Pay GST on time
- Display GSTIN and other required information on invoices
Impact of GST on Health Insurance Industry in India
Goods and Services Tax has had a significant impact on the health insurance industry in India, as it has on all sectors of the economy. It has resulted in an increase in the cost of health insurance premiums due to the additional GST charge. However, it has also brought about increased transparency and compliance in the industry, which is beneficial in the long run.
Important points to remember relating to GST on Health Insurance Industry
Goods and Services Tax is applicable to all types of health insurance policies, including individual, family, and group coverage.
The GST rate of 18% is applicable to the entire premium paid for a health insurance policy, including any charges for riders or add-ons.
GST is not applicable to certain types of health insurance, such as insurance for agricultural workers and insurance for economically weaker sections of society.
Health insurance companies and agents are required to issue Goods and Services Tax invoices for the supply of health insurance policies. The invoice must include the GSTIN, name and address of the insurer, and other required information. One of the best ways to issue an eInvoice is to use an online tool like Instabill.
GST input credit can be claimed by health insurance companies and agents on the GST paid on inputs (goods and services) used in the course of their business. This credit can be used to offset the Goods and Services Tax liability on the supply of health insurance policies.
In case of any disputes or issues related to GST on health insurance, insurers and agents can seek assistance from the Goods and Services Tax department or seek legal recourse through the appropriate channels.
The Goods and Services Tax council, which is responsible for making decisions on GST rates and policies, has the authority to make changes to the GST rate on health insurance in India. It is important for health insurance companies and agents to stay updated on any changes to GST policies that may affect their business.
Conclusion
GST is applicable to health insurance in India at the standard rate of 18%. GST compliance is important to avoid fines and penalties, and it is the responsibility of health insurance companies and agents to ensure that they follow GST regulations. While the implementation of Goods and Services Tax has led to an increase in the cost of health insurance premiums, it has also brought about increased transparency and compliance in the industry.
Moreover, If you want any other guidance relating to GST Return Filing or GST Registration, please feel free to talk to our business advisors at 8881-069-069.
Download E-Startup Mobile App and Never miss the latest updates narrating to your business.