Compliance Tool

GST Input Tax Credit Calculator

Calculate your Net Cash Liability after set-off using Rule 88A Logic. Includes a built-in Blocked Credit (Sec 17(5)) Audit.

Loading ITC Calculator...

180 Days Rule

If you don't pay your supplier within 180 days, you must reverse the claimed ITC with 18% interest.

Supplier Default

If your supplier hasn't filed GSTR-3B, your ITC is invalid. It must appear in your GSTR-2B to be claimed.

RCM Liability

You must pay RCM liability in CASH first. You can claim it as ITC only in the next month's return.

Consequences of Wrong ITC Claim

Claiming ineligible ITC (Blocked Credits) or claiming more than what is available in GSTR-2B attracts a penalty of 24% Interest + Reversal of the Credit.

Master Rule 88A: Order of Utilization

The most common error in GST filing is using the wrong credit to pay liability.Rule 88A dictates the strict order in which ITC must be used.

Input Credit Source1st Priority (Must Pay)2nd Priority3rd Priority
IGST CreditIGST LiabilityCGST / SGST (Any Order)-
CGST CreditCGST LiabilityIGST Liability SGST (Blocked)
SGST CreditSGST LiabilityIGST Liability CGST (Blocked)

Section 17(5): Blocked Credits (No ITC)

Even if you have a valid GST Invoice, you cannot claim credit for these specific items unless you are in the same line of business.

Motor Vehicles

Cars with <13 seats. (Allowed only for transporters/dealers)

Food & Catering

Lunch, Dinner, Office Parties, Outdoor Catering expenses.

Personal Use

Goods taken home for personal consumption by directors/partners.

Construction

Cement/Steel for constructing office building (Capitalized).

Insurance

Health/Life insurance for employees (unless mandatory by Govt).

Gifts/Samples

Free samples or gifts given to clients (Input credit must be reversed).

4 Mandatory Conditions to Claim ITC

  • Possession of Tax Invoice: You must have the physical or digital copy of the GST Invoice or Debit Note.
  • Receipt of Goods/Services: You must have actually received the material. For "Bill to - Ship to" models, deemed receipt applies.
  • Tax Paid to Govt: Your supplier must have filed their GSTR-3B and paid the tax to the government.
  • Return Filed: You must have filed your own GSTR-3B for the relevant month.

Quick Summary

  • IGST First: Always exhaust IGST credit before touching CGST/SGST.
  • No Cross-Utilisation: CGST credit cannot pay SGST liability.
  • GSTR-2B: ITC claim cannot exceed the amount reflected in GSTR-2B.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I claim ITC if supplier has not filed return?
No. As per Section 16(2)(aa) implemented from 1st Jan 2022, you can claim ITC ONLY if it appears in your GSTR-2B. If the supplier hasn't filed, the credit is not visible, and claiming it will lead to a demand notice.
What is the time limit to claim ITC?
The time limit to claim ITC for a financial year is 30th November of the following year OR the date of filing the Annual Return (GSTR-9), whichever is earlier.
Can I claim ITC on Mobile Phones?
ITC on mobile phones is generally allowed if the phone is purchased in the company's name and used for business purposes. However, the invoice must reflect the company's GSTIN.
What is Rule 36(4)?
Rule 36(4) used to allow 5% provisional ITC over GSTR-2B. However, this rule is now redundant. You can only claim what is exactly visible in GSTR-2B.
Can I claim ITC on Bank Charges?
Yes, you can claim ITC on the GST charged by banks on processing fees, loan charges, etc., provided you have the tax invoice or advice statement.