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GST Registration
Turnover >₹20L services / >₹40L goods · All e-commerce sellers
Required to legally collect GST and claim input tax credit. E-commerce sellers must register regardless of turnover.
⚠ Selling without GST when required makes every sale legally non-compliant.
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MSME / Udyam
Any small or medium business — free, no downside
Unlocks government schemes, priority lending, lower interest rates, and legal protection against delayed payments.
⚠ Without it, large buyers have no obligation to pay you within 45 days.
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Startup India (DPIIT)
Startups under 10 years · Turnover <₹100Cr
3-year income tax exemption, 80% IP fee rebate, faster trademark registration, access to government funds.
⚠ Many eligible startups skip this. Takes 2–3 days and saves significantly in tax.
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FSSAI License
Any food business — restaurants, cloud kitchens, packaged food
Mandatory for any entity involved in food. Zomato and Swiggy require a valid FSSAI number before onboarding.
⚠ Operating without FSSAI can lead to business closure and penalties up to ₹5L.
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IEC (Import Export Code)
Any business importing or exporting goods or services
Mandatory for customs clearance on international shipments and receiving foreign currency payments through banks.
⚠ Without IEC, customs will not release your international shipments.
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Shop & Establishment
Most businesses with physical premises or employees
State-level mandatory registration. Required for opening a business bank account in many states.
⚠ Required within 30 days of starting business in many states. Fines for late registration.
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Professional Tax
Businesses with employees in MH, KA, WB, AP, TG and others
State-level tax on professions. Employers must register, deduct, and deposit monthly or annually.
⚠ Non-registration creates issues during labour audits and due diligence.