GST registration threshold: $1,000,000
Estimated proportion of GST you can claim back on purchases
GST Registration Not Required
Your turnover of $800,000 is $200,000 below the $1M threshold.
Net Annual GST Payable
$28,800.00
Quarterly GST Payment
$7,200.00
Key facts about GST registration requirements
Compulsory registration
You must register for GST if your taxable turnover exceeds $1 million at the end of any calendar year (retrospective basis), or you can reasonably expect it to exceed $1 million in the next 12 months (prospective basis). You must apply within 30 days of the liability to register.
Voluntary registration
Even if you are below the threshold, you can voluntarily register for GST. This allows you to claim input tax on business purchases. However, you must remain registered for at least 2 years, keep proper records, and file quarterly returns. This can be advantageous if your customers are GST-registered businesses.
Compliance obligations
GST-registered businesses must file GST returns (Form GST F5) on a quarterly basis, charge GST at 9% on taxable supplies, issue tax invoices, and maintain proper records for at least 5 years. Late filing or payment attracts penalties of 5% immediately plus 2% per month (capped at 50%).
IRAS-Aligned: The $1M registration threshold and 9% GST rate are current as of 2025. For complex situations involving mixed supplies or overseas transactions, consult a GST specialist.
When you need to register, how GST works, and what it means for your business
When must a business register for GST in Singapore?
You must register for GST if your taxable turnover exceeds S$1 million in the past 12 months (retrospective test) or you reasonably expect it to exceed S$1 million in the next 12 months (prospective test). You have 30 days from the date you become liable to apply. Late registration can result in penalties and back-dated GST obligations.
What is the current GST rate in Singapore?
The GST rate is 9% from 1 January 2024 onwards. It was raised from 8% (which applied during 2023) and 7% (which applied before 2023). GST is added to the price of most goods and services. Some supplies are exempt (such as financial services and residential property sales) or zero-rated (such as exports and international services).
Can you register for GST voluntarily?
Yes. Even if your turnover is below S$1 million, you can apply for voluntary registration. This lets you claim back GST on your business purchases (input tax). It is useful if you sell mainly to GST-registered businesses or export goods. However, once voluntarily registered, you must stay registered for at least two years and file quarterly returns.
What are the benefits of being GST-registered?
You can claim input tax credits on GST paid for business purchases such as rent, equipment, and professional services. This reduces your net GST cost. For example, if you collect S$9,000 GST from customers and pay S$3,000 GST on expenses, you only remit S$6,000 to IRAS. You also appear more established to corporate clients who expect GST invoices.
How often do you file GST returns?
Most businesses file GST returns quarterly — every three months. Your accounting period is set when you register. The return (GST F5) is due within one month after the end of each quarter. You can file online via myTax Portal. Some businesses with turnover above S$5 million may apply for monthly filing if it suits their cash flow better.
What records must you keep for GST?
You must keep all tax invoices, receipts, credit notes, debit notes, and import permits for at least five years. Records should show the GST amount separately. For purchases over S$1,000, you need a tax invoice showing the supplier GST registration number. IRAS can audit your records at any time, so good record-keeping is essential.
What happens if you do not register for GST when required?
If you fail to register by the deadline, IRAS can backdate your registration to the date you should have registered. You will owe GST on all taxable supplies from that date, even if you did not charge GST to your customers. IRAS may also impose a penalty of up to S$10,000 and a fine of up to S$10,000 for late registration.
IRAS-Aligned: Based on 2025 IRAS rates and thresholds. For personal advice, speak to a qualified tax professional.
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Disclaimer: This calculator provides estimates based on current HMRC rates and thresholds for the 2025/26 tax year. It does not constitute professional tax, financial, or legal advice. Your actual liability may differ depending on your individual circumstances. Always consult a qualified accountant or tax adviser before making financial decisions. Read our terms