GST meaning · updated October 2026

GST composition scheme explained for small businesses

The composition scheme under Section 10 of the CGST Act lets small taxpayers pay GST as a fixed percentage of turnover instead of charging tax invoice by invoice. It reduces compliance, but it comes with real restrictions, including no input tax credit and no inter-state sales.

Who can opt in

Traders, manufacturers and restaurants with aggregate turnover up to Rs. 1.5 crore in the previous financial year can opt in, with a lower limit of Rs. 75 lakh in certain special category States. Service providers and mixed suppliers have a separate option under Section 10(2A) for turnover up to Rs. 50 lakh.

  • Not available to casual taxable persons or non-resident taxable persons.
  • Not available to manufacturers of certain notified goods such as ice cream, pan masala and tobacco products.
  • Not available if you make inter-state outward supplies of goods or supply goods not leviable to GST.
  • All registrations under the same PAN must opt for composition together.

Restrictions once you are in

You issue a bill of supply, not a tax invoice, and you cannot collect GST from customers. You cannot claim input tax credit, so the tax on your purchases becomes a cost. You must mention the words composition taxable person on the signboard and on bills. Tax under reverse charge, where applicable, is still payable at the normal rate.

Filings and switching

Opt in through Form CMP-02 before the start of the financial year. Pay tax quarterly through CMP-08, due by the 18th of the month after the quarter, and file the annual return GSTR-4 by 30 April after the year ends. If your turnover crosses the limit during the year, you must leave the scheme and file CMP-04, after which normal returns apply.

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Want your returns filed and reconciled every month without mismatch notices? Our team handles it end to end. Call or WhatsApp +91 63677 44602, or use the form below.

This guide explains the law in general terms as of October 2026. Time limits and requirements can depend on the facts of your case and on the notice you received.

Questions

Composition scheme — FAQs

Can a composition dealer sell to buyers in another State?+
No, a composition taxpayer supplying goods cannot make inter-state outward supplies. Inter-state purchases are allowed.
Can my customers claim ITC on my bills?+
No. A bill of supply does not show tax, so B2B buyers cannot claim credit. This is why the scheme suits businesses that sell mainly to consumers.
What happens if I miss CMP-08?+
Interest and late fee can apply, and continued non-filing can lead to registration action. File the pending statement as soon as possible.
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