The Hidden Limitations of Composition Scheme Most Businesses Ignore
The Composition Scheme under GST looks simple and attractive — lower tax rates, quarterly payments, and minimal compliance.
But here’s the truth:
Lower rate does not always mean lower tax burden.
Before opting under Section 10 of the CGST Act, every business must understand what they are giving up.
What Most Businesses Overlook
1.No Input Tax Credit (ITC)
Composition dealers cannot claim ITC on purchases and cannot
pass ITC to customers.
If your inputs carry substantial GST, your real tax cost may increase despite
lower rates.
2.Cannot Collect GST Separately
You cannot issue a tax invoice.
You must issue a Bill of Supply.
GST cannot be charged separately from customers.
This means tax is paid out of your own turnover — directly
impacting margins.
3.No Inter-State Supply Allowed
Under current GST provisions, composition taxpayers cannot
make inter-state outward supplies.
If your business plans expansion beyond your state, the
scheme may restrict growth.
4.Turnover Limit Is PAN-Based
The ₹1.5 crore threshold (₹75 lakh in special category
states) is calculated on aggregate turnover across all registrations under the
same PAN.
Crossing the limit requires mandatory migration to the
regular scheme.
5.Not Suitable for B2B Businesses
If your customers are registered dealers who want ITC, you
become commercially less competitive.
Many B2B clients prefer regular GST suppliers.
6.Reverse Charge Still Applies
Composition dealers must pay tax under Reverse Charge at
normal rates wherever applicable.
This is often misunderstood.
When Composition
Scheme Works Best
✔ Local B2C businesses
✔ Low input tax structure
✔ Stable turnover
✔ Limited expansion plans
When It Becomes Risky
⚠️ High ITC involvement
⚠️
B2B-focused model
⚠️
Inter-state growth plans
⚠️
Multiple GST registrations
Final Thought
The Composition Scheme is a relief mechanism — not a default
choice.
It is a strategic tax decision that requires comparative
calculation under both regular and composition schemes.
Many businesses opt for it based only on rate comparison and
later realize the hidden cost.
In GST planning, simplicity should never replace strategy.
#GSTIndia #CompositionScheme #GSTCompliance #IndirectTax #TaxPlanning
#BusinessStrategy #CAIndia #EntrepreneursIndia #FinancialLeadership

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