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Published on:

April 21, 2025

Alankar Mishra

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Basics of GST

B2B and B2C Large and Small Invoices in GST: A Complete Guide

Within the framework of the Goods and Services Tax system (GST) in force in India, invoices are of utmost importance. They not only facilitate claiming ITC but also act as evidence of a transaction. ITC can be availed only if the invoice is classified as B2B or B2C. Invoices can be subdivided into two major headings: B2B or B2C. Both classes have subclasses which take into account the value of the invoice and the type of business transaction it is.

In this article, we will attempt to clarify the differences between B2B and B2B large and small invoices with regards to their limits and reporting obligations under GST.

Types of Invoices in GST

Under the GST framework, and depending on the nature of the supply, different invoices are required:

Pro Forma Invoice: Given at the time of negotiation and just before the sale is made.

Final Invoice: Given at the time of sale confirmation.

Interim Invoice: Used when payments are made in parts for multi-phase projects.

Credit and Debit Notes: Adjust the original invoices to capture discounts or correct errors.

Delivery Notes: Enable tracking of goods that are in transit.

What is a B2B Invoice in GST?

B2B (Business-to-Business) invoices are created when one registered business sells goods or services to another business. Such invoices are important in that they enable the recipient business to claim an Input Tax Credit.

B2B Invoice Reporting

Must be reported in GSTR-1 return.

Details like GSTIN of the buyer, invoice value, tax rate, and tax amount must be provided.

B2B E-Invoicing Threshold

As of August 1, 2023, B2B e-invoicing is mandatory for businesses with an annual turnover exceeding Rs. 5 crore. This ensures better compliance and reduces tax evasion.

What is a B2C Invoice in GST?

B2C (Business-to-Consumer) invoices are issued when the buyer is not registered under GST. These are generally end-users or retail customers.

Reporting Requirements

Consolidated data can be provided in GSTR-1 for small transactions.

Larger interstate transactions require individual invoice-wise reporting.

QR Code Requirement

As per recent updates, businesses with a turnover of over Rs. 500 crore must include a dynamic QR code on B2C invoices.

What is a B2C Large Invoice?

A B2C Large Invoice (B2CL) applies when:

The sale is to an unregistered consumer.

It is an interstate transaction.

Invoice value exceeds Rs. 2.5 lakh.

Update from GST Council:

From August 1, 2024, this threshold has been reduced to Rs. 1 lakh for interstate transactions. These invoices must be reported individually in GSTR-1.

What is a B2C Small Invoice?

A B2C Small Invoice (B2CS) applies when:

The sale was to an unregistered customer.

It is an intra-state transaction.

Invoice value should be up to Rs. 2.5 lakh.

These invoices can be reported in bulk or summary format in GSTR-1.

B2B vs B2C Invoices: Key Differences

Knowing the difference between B2B (Business-to-Business) and B2C (Business-to-Consumer) invoices is crucial for proper GST compliance and filing. Below is a detailed comparison of the two across different parameters:

Criteria	B2B Invoice	B2C Invoice
Buyer Type	Registered Business	Unregistered Consumer
Input Tax Credit	Available	Not available
E-Invoicing	Mandatory (if turnover > Rs. 5 crore)	Not mandatory yet
QR Code	Not required	Required if turnover > Rs. 500 crore
Reporting Format	Invoice-wise in GSTR-1	Summary/Invoice-wise based on size/type

Importance of Correct Classification

Classifying invoices correctly as B2B or B2C helps in:

Ensuring compliance with GST regulations.

Avoiding notices or penalties from tax authorities.

Smooth claiming of input tax credit.

Simplifying the return filing and audit processes.

Conclusion

Although B2B and B2C invoicing under GST may seem complex, they are essential for legal compliance and efficient business operation. With changing limits and unwritten norms, being aware is important. Whether you are a business manager, accountant, or tax consultant, learning these fundamentals helps you meet GST obligations with ease.

FAQs

Q1. What is the difference between B2B and B2C invoices under GST?

Ans: When two registered businesses make a sale to each other, they issue B2B invoices, which enable the buyer to claim Input Tax Credit (ITC). When the consumer is a non-ITC registered individual, B2C invoices will be issued.

Q2. What are the B2C large invoices for GST?

Ans: An interstate sale to an unregistered customer with an invoice value exceeding ₹2.5 lakh is termed a B2C large invoice (B2CL). However, this threshold will be reduced to ₹1 lakh starting August 1, 2024, necessitating reporting at the transaction level in GSTR-1.

Q3. What qualifies as a B2C small invoice?

Ans: B2C small invoice (B2CS) describes sales transacted within a state to unregistered individuals as long as the sales invoice does not exceed ₹2.5 lakh. Such invoices can be reported as a summary in GSTR-1.

Q4. Is e-invoicing mandatory for B2C transactions?

Ans: There is no such thing as e-invoicing for B2C transactions at this moment in time. Nevertheless, B2C invoices must include a dynamic QR code for businesses with a turnover of more than ₹500 crore.