How to make a GST invoice as a freelancer
- Enter your business details. Name, address, state and GSTIN if you are registered. These are saved on your device, so the next invoice starts pre-filled.
- Enter the client and the place of supply. The place of supply is what decides the tax split, not where you happen to be sitting.
- Add your line items with a SAC code, quantity and rate. For a fixed-price project, one line with quantity 1 is fine.
- Check the tax banner. Same state shows CGST + SGST at half the rate each. Different state shows IGST at the full rate.
- Click Download PDF and choose "Save as PDF" in the print dialog.
Keep invoice numbers in one unbroken series across the financial year. Gaps and duplicates are the first thing that gets questioned during a review.
What a GST tax invoice must carry
- Supplier name, address and GSTIN
- A unique, sequential invoice number and the invoice date
- Recipient name, address, and GSTIN where the recipient is registered
- Place of supply, and the state code for inter-state supply
- Description of service, SAC code, quantity, rate and taxable value
- Tax rate and amount, split into CGST/SGST or shown as IGST
- Total invoice value, commonly also written in words
- Signature or digital signature of the supplier or an authorised person
This is a general checklist for the common freelancer case, not tax advice. Rules differ for exports, reverse charge, e-invoicing thresholds and composition dealers. Confirm your own position with a chartered accountant or on the official GST portal.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a GSTIN to invoice as a freelancer?
Not always. Below the GST registration threshold for services you can raise a simple bill of supply without charging GST. Once you are registered, you must issue a GST tax invoice carrying your GSTIN. Thresholds change, so check your current position with a CA or on the GST portal.
When is it CGST + SGST, and when is it IGST?
Same state as the client → the tax splits into CGST and SGST at half the rate each (18% becomes 9% + 9%). Different state → a single IGST line at the full rate. This tool switches the moment you change either state dropdown. Full explanation with worked examples →
Which SAC code should I use?
SAC identifies the type of service. Freelancers commonly sit in the 9983 and 9984 families covering professional, technical and IT services. Pick the code that genuinely matches what you delivered, and verify it on the GST portal before you file. See the full SAC code list for freelancers →
Can I invoice a foreign client with this?
You can produce the document, but export of services has its own treatment — LUT, zero rating and FIRC handling are outside what a generic generator can decide for you. Talk to a CA before you send an export invoice.
Is my client data uploaded anywhere?
No. There is no server and no analytics on this page. Everything is computed in your browser, and only your own business details are stored locally so the next invoice starts pre-filled. Clearing your browser data removes them.
Does it work offline?
Yes. Once the page has loaded, you can disconnect and keep generating invoices. You can also save the page to your computer and open it directly.