07 August 2018
[07/08, 7:52 a.m.] CA MANIKANTA BANDARU: What is GST rate on sub contracts?
[07/08, 7:52 a.m.] CA MANIKANTA BANDARU: What is the rate...if sub contractor again given the same work to another..contract... that sub to sub contract... what is the gst rate.
27 July 2024
The GST rates on sub-contracts depend on the nature of the work and the classification of the services provided. Here's a breakdown of the applicable GST rates for sub-contracting:
### **1. GST on Sub-Contracting Services**
#### **For Works Contract Services:** - **Works Contract:** This includes construction, repair, and maintenance services. For works contract services, including sub-contracting, the GST rate is typically **12%** (6% CGST + 6% SGST) for services provided to the government or to an entity registered under GST, and **18%** (9% CGST + 9% SGST) for other services.
#### **For Other Services:** - **General Service:** If the sub-contract is for general services (not a works contract), the GST rate is based on the nature of the service. Common rates are **18%** or **12%** depending on the type of service.
### **2. GST on Sub-Sub-Contracting:**
When a sub-contractor sub-contracts a portion of the work to another contractor (sub-sub-contract), the GST treatment is generally as follows:
- **Sub-Contractor's GST Rate:** The GST rate applicable to the sub-sub-contractor is typically the same as the rate applicable to the primary contract. If the primary contract is a works contract, then the sub-sub-contractor will also follow the same GST rate (12% or 18%).
- **Reverse Charge Mechanism (RCM):** If the primary contractor or subcontractor is a registered person and provides services to an unregistered person, GST is to be paid under Reverse Charge Mechanism by the recipient of the services. However, if both are registered, the normal GST rates and procedures apply.
### **Detailed Reference:**
- **Notification No. 11/2017-Central Tax (Rate)** (for works contracts and other services) - **GST Rate Schedule for Works Contract Services** on the CBEC website
### **Example Scenarios:**
1. **Primary Contract for Construction Work:** - **Primary Contractor:** GST @ 12% (6% CGST + 6% SGST) - **Sub-Contractor:** GST @ 12% (6% CGST + 6% SGST) on the amount billed to the primary contractor.
2. **Sub-Contractor Sub-Contracting Work:** - **Sub-Sub-Contractor:** GST @ 12% (6% CGST + 6% SGST) on the amount billed to the sub-contractor.
### **Key Points to Consider:**
- **Documentation:** Ensure that all contracts, invoices, and tax payments are properly documented and reflected in the GST returns. - **GST Credits:** The main contractor can claim Input Tax Credit (ITC) on the GST paid to the sub-contractor, provided the sub-contractor has complied with GST rules and filed returns correctly. - **Rate Changes:** Always check for any updates or changes in GST rates or rules as notified by the government.
By ensuring compliance with these guidelines, you can effectively manage GST obligations related to sub-contracting and sub-sub-contracting services. If you have complex scenarios, consulting with a GST professional or tax advisor is recommended.