Wrong HSN code on invoice

This query is : Resolved 

18 July 2020 i m manufacturer
is there any penalty in case of wrong HSN code mentioned on invoice. & i want to export some goods we are sure about first 4 digits of HSN code, but for remaining code we are not sure.
is there any breach of law for mentioning wrong HSN code & if Yes the what is the penalty for the same.

18 July 2020 Unless it has some custom duty or GST rate implication, it should not be a big issue.

18 July 2020 it has gst applicability and also want to export that item

19 July 2020 You would be exporting under LUT,right?. So GST applicability will not be an an issue.If you want to export with payment of tax then only there will be a question.Can you share the product description and 4 digits HSN?

20 July 2020 yes. I am sharing product description and 8 digit HSN ocde

03 August 2025 Yes, using a **wrong HSN code** on an invoice can potentially attract **penalties** under the **GST law**, especially in the context of **exports** and **differential GST rates**.

Let me address your situation in parts:

---

### ✅ 1. **Is there a penalty for wrong HSN code?**

Yes, under **Section 125 of the CGST Act**, a general penalty of up to **₹25,000** (CGST ₹12,500 + SGST ₹12,500) can be levied **if wrong HSN results in non-compliance**, especially in:

* **Wrong tax rate charged**
* **Incorrect credit passed to the buyer**
* **Mismatch in export classification (if claiming refunds)**

However, if the HSN mistake **doesn’t result in loss of revenue** or **rate difference**, authorities may **not impose** a penalty.

---

### ✅ 2. **What if you’re exporting goods under LUT?**

* If you're exporting **under LUT (without payment of tax)**, the **HSN error is less likely to affect refunds**, unless **customs requires precise classification**.
* However, if you export **with payment of tax**, **correct HSN** is essential to:

* Claim **IGST refund** correctly
* Avoid **query or rejection** from customs

---

### ✅ 3. **What if only first 4 digits are known?**

The **first 4 digits** refer to the **chapter heading** and are often sufficient for **broad classification**. But:

* For **exports**, customs may require the **6- or 8-digit HSN**.
* If you're unsure, consult the **GST Tariff Schedule** or **Customs classification experts** to avoid misclassification.

---

### ✅ 4. **Practical advice:**

* Mention the **correct 4-digit HSN** if unsure, and **do not fabricate** the last digits.
* **Avoid guessing** the full 8-digit code.
* Use CBIC's HSN finder: [https://cbic-gst.gov.in/gst-goods-services-rates.html](https://cbic-gst.gov.in/gst-goods-services-rates.html)

---

### 📌 Recommendation:

Please share your **product description** and the **4-digit HSN** you’re confident about. I can help you identify the correct **6- or 8-digit code**.

This will help you:

* Avoid classification disputes
* Ensure correct tax rates
* Prevent issues in GST refund or customs processing


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