GST Rate Finder — HSN & SAC code search
Every GST invoice must mention the HSN code (goods) or SAC code (services) and charge the rate linked to that code. Getting it wrong means either over-charging customers or facing demands with interest. This tool lets you search a curated list of more than 250 of the most frequently used codes by number or by plain-English keyword such as "cement", "hotel", "mobile" or "insurance", and filter by goods/services or by rate.
What changed on 22 September 2025
The 56th GST Council meeting collapsed the four-slab structure into two main rates. Items that moved down to 5% include butter, ghee, cheese, dry fruits, biscuits, chocolates, namkeen, toothpaste, shampoo, soap, bicycles, tractors, sewing machines, medical devices and most medicines. Items that moved down to 18% from 28% include cement, air-conditioners, televisions, dishwashers, small cars, two-wheelers up to 350 cc and auto parts. Nil rate now applies to UHT milk, paneer, roti, notebooks, pencils, maps, individual life and health insurance, and 33 life-saving drugs. A new 40% rate covers aerated drinks, pan masala, large cars, premium motorcycles, yachts and online money gaming.
How to use the finder
- Type a code prefix: "85" shows all electrical machinery entries, "8517" narrows to phones and telecom gear.
- Type a word: "insurance" returns life (nil), health (nil) and group/motor (18%) entries side by side.
- Filter by rate to see everything in a slab, e.g. all 40% items.
Example
A hardware shop in Sikar sells a ceiling fan (HSN 8414, 18%) and a steel pressure cooker (HSN 7323, 5%) on one invoice. Searching each code confirms the rates, so the bill shows CGST 9% + SGST 9% on the fan and CGST 2.5% + SGST 2.5% on the cooker.
The list is maintained from official rate notifications but is not a substitute for the full tariff. Where a rate depends on sale value (apparel and footwear above ₹2,500), packaging, or ITC conditions, the notes column flags it.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between HSN and SAC?
HSN (Harmonised System of Nomenclature) codes classify goods, chapters 01–98. SAC (Services Accounting Code) classify services and all begin with 99.
How many HSN digits must I print on invoices?
Four digits if aggregate turnover in the previous year was up to ₹5 crore (optional on B2C invoices), six digits above ₹5 crore. Exporters use eight digits.
Where do I verify a rate officially?
Check the latest CGST (Rate) notifications on cbic-gov.in or the "Services and Goods rates" search on the GST portal.
Does the rate finder cover compensation cess?
It notes where cess applies (tobacco, pan masala) but the headline rate column shows GST only.
Disclaimer: This tool is for general information and estimation only. Tax rates and rules change — verify with official sources or a professional before acting. Read full disclaimer.