Compliance Tool • Rule 88A • 2B matcher • 17(5) helper

GST Input Tax Credit Calculator

Calculate your Net Cash Liability after ITC set-off using a transparent Rule 88A utilization breakdown. Includes a built-in Blocked Credit (Sec 17(5)) helper and a GSTR-2B matcher.

Last reviewed: January 26, 2026Not legal advice • Verify before filing

GST ITC Calculator Tool

Loading ITC Calculator…
Tip: If you’re reconciling invoice-wise, use the GSTR-2B Reconciler before finalizing ITC.

Who is this for?

Accountants & GST practitioners
Quick utilization breakdown + mismatch sanity check before 3B.
Small businesses
Understand cash payable vs ITC balance and common traps (17(5), 180 days, 2B).
E-commerce & high-volume invoices
Spot statement vs books drift and stay conservative where needed.
RCM-heavy businesses
Estimate cash-first RCM payment and later ITC claim flow.

How to use this calculator

Enter your output tax
Fill your IGST/CGST/SGST output tax for the period (from your workings/returns).
Add eligible ITC
Enter eligible IGST/CGST/SGST ITC. If unsure, use the blocked credits helper and apply conservative assumptions.
Match with GSTR-2B (optional)
Compare Books vs 2B and cap claims to reduce mismatch risk.
Review utilization + cash payable
See a step-by-step utilization breakdown and the final cash payable/credit balance.
Need due dates? Check the GST Calendar for GSTR-1/3B timelines.

Common ITC situations (quick reminders)

180 Days Rule

If payment to the supplier isn't made within 180 days, proportionate ITC may need to be reversed with interest. You can re-claim later when payment is completed.

2B Visibility

A practical approach is to claim conservatively based on GSTR-2B and reconcile differences. Try the 2B Reconciler for invoice-level reconciliation.

RCM Liability

RCM is typically paid in cash first, and eligible ITC is claimed after payment. Use the RCM Calculator to model cash impact.

Consequences of wrong ITC claim

Claiming ineligible ITC (e.g., blocked credits) can lead to reversal, interest and penalties. Interest rates depend on the nature of default and applicable provisions—always verify with current law/notifications.

Master Rule 88A: Order of Utilization

A common error is using the wrong credit to pay liability. Rule 88A guides the order of utilization, especially how IGST credit can be applied after IGST liability.

Input Credit Source1st Priority2nd Priority3rd Priority
IGST CreditIGST LiabilityCGST / SGST (any order)
CGST CreditCGST Liability
SGST CreditSGST Liability
The calculator shows a transparent utilization breakdown. You can compare outcomes when different utilization choices are used for remaining IGST credit.

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

Some inputs are blocked even if GST is paid. The tool includes a quick helper to flag common blocked credit categories.

Common blocked items
  • • Motor vehicles (personal/blocked use cases)
  • • Food & beverages, outdoor catering (with exceptions)
  • • Memberships (club/health/fitness)
  • • Works contract for immovable property (with exceptions)
Often claimable (with proof)
  • • Business expenses with valid tax invoice
  • • Input services used for taxable supplies
  • • Bank charges / professional fees (business use)
  • • Tools/software subscriptions (business use)

4 mandatory conditions to claim ITC

Use this as a checklist before you claim:

Tax invoice / valid document
You must have a valid tax invoice or prescribed document.
Receipt of goods/services
Goods/services must be received (including in lots, as applicable).
Tax actually paid & reflected
Ensure supplier compliance / reflection (practically, 2B visibility is key).
Return filed
You must furnish the required return to avail ITC.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Can I claim ITC if my supplier has not filed / the invoice is not in GSTR-2B?

In practice, ITC is restricted to what reflects in GSTR-2B and meets section 16 conditions. If an invoice is missing from 2B, follow up with the supplier and reconcile before claiming to reduce mismatch risk.

Q. What is the time limit to claim ITC?

ITC can be claimed up to the cut-off under section 16(4) (commonly linked to the next FY return due date) or the annual return filing date (GSTR-9), whichever is earlier, subject to amendments.

Q. Can I claim ITC on mobile phones and laptops?

Often yes if used for business and the invoice is in the business name/GSTIN, and the credit is not blocked under section 17(5). Keep documentation to support business use.

Q. What is Rule 36(4) / why does 2B matter?

A common compliance practice is to claim ITC conservatively based on GSTR-2B and reconcile differences. This tool’s “2B matcher” helps you spot mismatches and apply a cap if needed.

Q. Can CGST credit be used to pay SGST liability?

No. Cross-utilisation between CGST and SGST is not allowed. IGST credit can be used to pay IGST first, then CGST/SGST (any order) as per Rule 88A.

Q. What is the 180 days rule for ITC?

If you do not pay your supplier within 180 days (as applicable), you may need to reverse proportionate ITC with interest, and you can re-claim later when payment is made.

Q. How does ITC work for RCM invoices?

RCM tax is typically paid in cash first. Eligible ITC (if any) is generally claimed after payment, subject to conditions and proper documentation. Verify timing with your return workings.

Q. How should I treat credit notes / amendments in Books vs 2B?

Credit notes, amendments, and timing differences can cause mismatches. Reconcile invoice-wise and period-wise, and prefer a conservative claim approach until statements align.

Sources & verification

This page provides a practical estimation and a utilization breakdown. Actual return values depend on your invoices, eligibility, and what reflects in your GST statements. For compliance/disputes, rely on the law/notifications and professional advice.

Last reviewed: January 26, 2026Not legal advice • Verify before filinghttps://thegstcalculator.in/tools/gst-itc-calculator
This page is for quick estimation and education. For filing/compliance, verify with official statements and professional advice.