13 February 2015
IF YOU ONLY PROVIDING SERVICE TEHN ONCE UR GROSS RECEIPTS CROSSES rs 10 lakhs then start paying servcie tax and when it crosses rs 9 lakhs file st-1 form on www.aces.com and register for service tax
25 July 2025
Here's a straightforward guide for someone wanting to start a sole proprietorship business (like a startup) under a business name:
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### 1. **Registration Formalities**
* **No mandatory registration** is required to start a sole proprietorship business in India. * You can operate under your **own name or a trade name (doing business as)**. * However, for a trade name, it is advisable to get a **Shop & Establishment License** (from local municipal authorities) or any specific license related to your business.
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### 2. **Tax Compliances**
* **PAN Card**: Use your personal PAN card since proprietorship is not a separate legal entity. * **GST Registration**: Mandatory if your turnover exceeds ₹20 lakhs (₹10 lakhs for special category states). For service providers, threshold is ₹20 lakhs. * **Service Tax (Old Rule)**: Applicable only if turnover crosses ₹10 lakhs (note: service tax replaced by GST since July 2017). * **Income Tax**: File Income Tax return as an individual declaring business income under "Profits and Gains from Business or Profession". * **Maintain proper books of accounts** for income and expenses. * **Other Tax Registrations**: If applicable, like Professional Tax, etc.
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### 3. **Opening Bank Account**
* **Bank Account can be opened in proprietor's name or in the business name** (usually with “sole proprietor” added). * Documents generally required:
* PAN card of proprietor * Aadhaar card / ID proof * Address proof (ration card, electricity bill, etc.) * Business proof (Shop & Establishment License, GST certificate, or any proof of business existence) * Passport-sized photographs * Approach any bank with the above documents and apply for a **Current Account** under sole proprietorship.
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### 4. **Other Points**
* You can **operate the business using your PAN**. * You **can use your personal bank account**, but it is advisable to keep business transactions separate for clarity and accounting. * The **authority license** depends on the nature of business and location. Mostly it will be Shop & Establishment registration from local municipal corporation or Gram Panchayat for rural areas.
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### Summary Table
| Step | Requirement | | ------------ | ---------------------------------------------------------- | | Registration | No mandatory, Shop & Establishment advisable | | Tax | PAN for filing tax; GST if turnover > threshold | | Bank Account | Current Account in proprietor’s name or business name | | Licenses | Shop & Establishment License or industry-specific licenses |
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If you want, I can guide you through drafting application forms or help find specific local authority contacts. What kind of business exactly? That will help me give more tailored advice!