GST Compliance
HSN codes are mandatory for registered taxpayers exceeding ₹1.5 crore turnover. Accurate codes ensure every invoice is compliant with the GST Act and auto-populated return data stays error-free.
Free Tool | HSN & SAC Code Search
GST HSN & SAC Code Search
Search for GST HSN and SAC codes for your products and services. Get GST rates, descriptions, and classifications — free, instant, no login required.
Examples: 8528 · 998311 · computer monitor · consulting
21
Sections
99
Chapters
1,244+
Headings
5,224+
Subheadings
5 Slabs
GST Rates
How HSN & SAC codes are structured.
HSN Code
8-digit structure for goods
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Digits 1–2
Chapter — broad goods category (e.g. Ch. 85: Electrical machinery)
Digits 3–4
Heading — specific product group (e.g. 8528: Monitors & projectors)
Digits 5–6
Subheading — international 6-digit level used in 200+ countries
Digits 7–8
National tariff — India-specific extension of the international code
SAC Code
6-digit structure for services
X
X
X
X
X
X
Digits 1–2
Major service category (all services begin with 99)
Digits 3–4
Sub-category identifies the type of service
Digits 5–6
Specific service — most granular classification level
Example: SAC 998311 = Management consulting services. The prefix 99 identifies it as a service; 8311 narrows it to consulting under professional services.
What is an HSN Code?
HSN stands for Harmonized System of Nomenclature — a standardized international system of names and numbers used to classify goods in trade. Developed by the World Customs Organization (WCO), it is recognized in over 200 countries.
In India's GST framework, HSN codes are 6 to 8 digits long. Each code identifies a product category and maps it to a specific GST rate slab. The hierarchy starts broad — from a chapter (2 digits) — and narrows to a specific product subdivision at 8 digits.
Example: Chapter 85 covers "Electrical machinery." Heading 8528 within it covers "Monitors and projectors." Further digits identify the exact sub-type — colour vs monochrome, size class, and so on.
What is a SAC Code?
SAC stands for Service Accounting Code — a unique 6-digit numerical code used to classify services under India's GST regime. While HSN applies to goods, SAC is its equivalent for services.
All service codes begin with the prefix 99. The next two digits represent the major service category (e.g. 9983 for other professional services), the following two digits identify the sub-category, and the final two digits pinpoint the specific service type.
Mentioning the correct SAC code on invoices is mandatory under GST for all service providers above the prescribed turnover threshold, just as HSN codes are required for goods suppliers.
When do you need to quote HSN codes?
1
Under ₹1.5 crore
Not required
2
₹1.5 crore – ₹5 crore
2-digit HSN
3
Above ₹5 crore
4-digit HSN
4
Import / Export
8-digit mandatory
Note on auto-population: GST returns are partially automated — HSN codes are picked from your registration details and auto-populated into filings. Incorrect or missing codes cause mismatches in auto-populated returns and may trigger scrutiny notices.
Five GST rate slabs — determined by HSN / SAC code.
0%
Exempt
Essential goods — milk, fresh vegetables, education
5%
Low Rate
Packaged food, economy transport, healthcare
12%
Standard
Processed food, computers, business services
18%
Standard+
IT services, electronics, hotel accommodation
28%
Luxury
Automobiles, tobacco, luxury goods + cess
Based on the HSN or SAC code, GST rates are fixed in these five slabs. Some goods in the 28% bracket also attract an additional cess.
Four reasons accurate HSN codes matter for your business.
Tax Standardisation
HSN codes remove subjectivity in tax calculation. Each code maps to a fixed GST rate slab, reducing calculation errors and eliminating disputes with tax authorities.
Data & Analytics
The government uses HSN data to track trade patterns and industry output. Accurate HSN coding keeps your business data aligned with government records and simplifies audits.
International Trade
HSN is internationally recognized under WCO standards and used in 200+ countries. The same codes used for Indian GST apply to customs classification on all imports and exports.
Frequently asked questions.
HSN stands for Harmonized System of Nomenclature — a standardized international system of names and numbers used to classify goods in trade. In India's GST framework, HSN codes determine the applicable tax rate for every product. Codes are 6 to 8 digits long.
SAC stands for Service Accounting Code — a unique 6-digit numerical code used to classify services under India's GST system. The first two digits represent the major service category, the next two the sub-category, and the final two digits the specific service type.
Businesses with annual turnover under ₹1.5 crore are exempt. Those with ₹1.5 crore to ₹5 crore must mention 2-digit HSN codes. Businesses above ₹5 crore must use 4-digit codes. Import and export transactions always require 8-digit codes.
GST rates are fixed in five slabs based on the HSN or SAC code: 0% (exempted goods), 5%, 12%, 18%, and 28%. Some goods also attract an additional cess on top of the 28% slab.
Use the search tool on this page. Enter the HSN or SAC code directly to look up its description and GST rate, or type a keyword describing your product or service to find the matching classification.
The HSN hierarchy contains 21 sections, 99 chapters, approximately 1,244 headings, and 5,224 subheadings. India extends this to an 8-digit level for domestic classification, adding sub-categories specific to Indian trade.
The 6-digit HSN codes are internationally harmonized and apply to both GST and customs. For customs (import/export), India uses the 8-digit ITC-HS code extending the 6-digit base. For domestic GST, 4- or 8-digit codes apply based on the turnover threshold.
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