HSN & SAC Code Finder
Search HSN codes for goods and SAC codes for services with applicable GST rates
Understanding HSN & SAC Codes under GST
Every business registered under GST in India must classify their goods using HSN codes and services using SAC codes. These codes determine the applicable GST rate and are mandatory on tax invoices, returns, and e-way bills.
What is an HSN Code?
HSN (Harmonized System of Nomenclature) is a 6-digit international standard developed by the World Customs Organization to classify over 5,000 commodity groups. India uses an extended 8-digit system for more granular classification under GST. HSN codes are organized into 21 sections and 99 chapters covering all physical goods.
What is a SAC Code?
SAC (Services Accounting Code) is a 6-digit classification system used under Indian GST to categorize services. All SAC codes begin with 99 and cover categories like professional services, IT services, transportation, hospitality, construction, financial services, and education. SAC codes determine the GST rate applicable to each service.
When is HSN Code Mandatory?
HSN codes are mandatory on all GST invoices. Businesses with annual turnover up to Rs 5 crore must use 4-digit HSN codes, while those with turnover above Rs 5 crore must use 6-digit codes. For exports and imports, 8-digit codes are required. Incorrect HSN codes can lead to penalties and ITC mismatches.
GST Rate Lookup
GST rates in India are structured in five slabs: 0% (essential items like fresh food, books), 5% (packaged food, economy transport), 12% (processed food, business class travel), 18% (most services, industrial goods), and 28% (luxury items, automobiles, tobacco). Some items also attract additional cess.
Frequently Asked Questions
HSN (Harmonized System of Nomenclature) is an internationally standardized system of names and numbers to classify traded goods. In India, HSN codes are used under GST to classify goods for taxation purposes. They are important because they determine the correct GST rate, are mandatory on tax invoices, and help in standardized trade classification across countries.
SAC (Services Accounting Code) is used to classify services under GST, while HSN codes classify goods. SAC codes are always 6 digits and start with 99. HSN codes can be 2-8 digits and follow the international Harmonized System. Both are used to determine the applicable GST rate.
Yes, it is mandatory to mention HSN codes for goods and SAC codes for services on GST invoices. Businesses with turnover up to Rs 5 crore must use 4-digit HSN codes, and those with turnover above Rs 5 crore must use 6-digit codes. This requirement helps in accurate tax classification and filing.
For GST purposes, businesses with turnover up to Rs 5 crore need 4-digit HSN codes, and those above Rs 5 crore need 6-digit codes. For customs and international trade, 8-digit codes are used. The more digits, the more specific the classification of the goods.
Using an incorrect HSN or SAC code can lead to wrong GST rate application, rejection of e-way bills, issues during GST audits, input tax credit (ITC) mismatches, and potential penalties under Section 125 of the CGST Act. Always verify codes before filing returns.
India has five GST rate slabs: 0% for essential items (fresh vegetables, milk, books), 5% for basic necessities (packaged food, economy transport), 12% for standard goods and services (processed food, business class), 18% for most goods and services (industrial products, IT services), and 28% for luxury and sin goods (automobiles, tobacco, aerated drinks). Some items also attract compensation cess.
Use our free HSN Code Finder tool above to search by product name or description. You can also filter by goods or services and by GST rate. For official references, check the GST Rate Schedule published by CBIC or consult the World Customs Organization (WCO) HSN database for international classification.
Automate your GST compliance with the right HSN & SAC codes.
OneFinOps manages your invoicing, GST returns, and compliance with accurate HSN/SAC classification. Try free for 14 days.