Which GST rate applies to event services?
Most event management services in India are taxed at 18% GST under SAC code 998596 (Event Management Services) or 998554 (Organising Conferences and Trade Shows). This applies to the event planner's service fee — not necessarily every vendor they coordinate.
| Service | GST Rate | SAC Code |
|---|---|---|
| Event management (planner fee) | 18% | 998596 |
| Venue rental (banquet hall) | 18% | 996311 |
| Outdoor catering at venue | 18% | 996334 |
| Photography / videography | 18% | 998384 |
| Decorator / florist | 18% | 998599 |
| Live entertainment / artist | 12% | 999652 |
| DJ / band services | 18% | 999652 |
Always verify current rates with a GST practitioner — rates and SAC mappings are updated by the GST Council.
When do you need to register for GST?
If your aggregate turnover from event services exceeds ₹20 lakhs per financial year (₹10 lakhs in special category states), GST registration is mandatory. Once registered, you must charge GST on all taxable supplies, file monthly or quarterly returns, and maintain proper records.
Input tax credit (ITC) for event planners
If you are GST-registered and your vendors are also registered, you can claim Input Tax Credit on the GST you pay to vendors — reducing your net tax liability. Key conditions: the vendor must have filed their GSTR-1, the supply must be used for a taxable outward supply, and you must hold a valid tax invoice. This is where proper invoicing discipline pays off directly.
How to structure a GST-compliant event invoice
Your invoice must include: your GSTIN, client's GSTIN (if B2B), invoice date, place of supply, SAC code, taxable value, CGST/SGST (same state) or IGST (interstate), and the total. For weddings and social events where the client is unregistered (B2C), you still charge GST but use a simplified invoice format.
Common GST mistakes event planners make
- Charging GST on the gross event spend (venue + catering + decor) when you should only charge on your management fee.
- Issuing invoices without a valid SAC code.
- Not collecting GST because "the client didn't ask" — you are legally liable regardless.
- Claiming ITC on personal expenses that go through the business.