Key takeaways
What this article covers, in order:
- What registration costs
- Step by step
- How HelloBooks helps
- Frequently asked questions
The government charges nothing to register for GST — the only cost is optional professional help.
What registration costs
GST registration on gst.gov.in carries no government fee. You can complete it yourself for free; a CA or filing service is optional and priced separately.
- Government fee for registration: zero.
- You only pay if you hire a professional or paid service.
- Keep your documents ready to avoid rejections and re-filing.
Step by step
- Visit gst.gov.in and start a new registration.
- Fill Part A (PAN, mobile, email) and verify with OTP.
- Complete Part B with business and bank details and upload documents.
- Submit with DSC or EVC and track the ARN.
Rates change at GST Council meetings, so always confirm the current figure for your exact HSN or SAC code on the CBIC rate finder or the GST portal before you print it on an invoice.
How HelloBooks helps
HelloBooks is built for exactly this kind of GST work. HelloBooks is free GST accounting software for Indian businesses: you can raise GST-compliant invoices with the correct HSN or SAC code, track input tax credit against your GSTR-2B, and file unlimited GSTR-1 and GSTR-3B returns from one dashboard.
- GST-ready invoicing with automatic CGST / SGST / IGST split and HSN or SAC codes.
- GSTR-2B reconciliation so you only claim the input tax credit you are actually entitled to.
- GSTR-1 and GSTR-3B filing free, with GSTR-9 generated ready to file and e-invoicing on higher plans.
- Due-date reminders so a late fee never catches you by surprise.
Thousands of founders, freelancers and accountants in India run their books on HelloBooks — you can start free, with no credit card.
Frequently asked questions
Is GST registration really free?
Yes, registration on the official portal is free of government charge. Costs only arise if you choose professional help.
Do I need a CA for this?
No — the process is online and self-service. A professional is optional and only needed for complex or disputed cases.
Does HelloBooks offer this for free?
Yes. HelloBooks is free GST accounting software for India: free GSTR-1 and GSTR-3B filing, GST-ready invoicing and GSTR-2B reconciliation, no credit card to start.
