30 June 2014
1. As of now, Service Tax is 4.944% 2. VAT regular rate of tax is 14.50% 3. However, recent High Court Decision, advised that the VAT should be charged on the balance of 60% of the turnover. No circular/notification not able to see.
20 July 2025
In Punjab, the taxation on restaurant services involves both Value Added Tax (VAT) and Service Tax, each with specific rates and conditions.
๐งพ VAT on Restaurant Services in Punjab As of the latest available information, the VAT rates applicable to restaurant services in Punjab are:
Food and Non-Alcoholic Beverages: 12.5% Hindustan Times +1 CAclubindia +1 Alcoholic Beverages: The rate may vary; however, specific details are not provided in the available sources. It's important to note that VAT is charged on the entire bill amount, including both food and beverages. This practice has been under scrutiny, with concerns about double taxation when both VAT and Service Tax are applied to the full bill amount. Hindustan Times Hindustan Times +1 Hindustan Times +1
๐ผ Service Tax on Restaurant Services Service Tax is applicable to restaurant services under certain conditions: mint +1 Hindustan Times +1
Rate: 14.5% Abatement: Restaurants are eligible for an abatement of 60% on the total bill amount, meaning Service Tax is levied only on 40% of the bill. This effectively reduces the Service Tax rate to 5.8% of the total bill. Moneycontrol However, it's crucial to ensure that the restaurant complies with the necessary conditions for this abatement, such as not providing air conditioning or liquor services.
โ๏ธ Legal Considerations and Recent Developments The practice of charging both VAT and Service Tax on the entire bill amount has been challenged in the Punjab and Haryana High Court. The court issued notices to various authorities, including the central and state governments, regarding this dual taxation issue. Hindustan Times +2 Hindustan Times +2 Hindustan Times +2 Hindustan Times
Additionally, the Uttarakhand High Court ruled that the component of the bill subject to Service Tax should not be subject to VAT again. This implies that VAT should only be levied on the portion of the bill not covered by Service Tax. Moneycontrol
โ Recommendations for Restaurant Operators in Punjab Review Billing Practices: Ensure that VAT and Service Tax are applied correctly, with VAT on the appropriate portion of the bill and Service Tax on the eligible 40%. Stay Informed on Legal Developments: Monitor the outcomes of ongoing legal cases regarding dual taxation to ensure compliance with any new rulings. Consult with Tax Professionals: Engage with tax advisors to navigate the complexities of VAT and Service Tax laws and to optimize tax liabilities.