Event Management GST Rate: Services Covered Under GST
Whether it’s a corporate seminar, a wedding, a product launch, or a music festival—event management companies are behind the scenes making everything run smoothly. But how are these services taxed under GST? This blog breaks down the event management gst rate, the types of services covered, and how GST affects both clients and service providers.
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GST Rate on Event Management Services
| Type of Service | SAC Code | GST Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Event management (full service) | 998596 | 18% |
| Wedding planning | 998596 | 18% |
| Sound, light, stage setup (individually billed) | 9983 / 9985 | 18% |
| Event venue booking (if included) | 9966 | 18% |
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GST on Event Management Company: Billing Example
Let’s say an event management company plans a wedding for ₹5,00,000. Here’s how GST works:
- Total service cost: ₹5,00,000
- GST @18%: ₹90,000
- Final invoice: ₹5,90,000
The gst on event management company applies to the entire contract value, unless some services are outsourced and billed separately.
Input Tax Credit for Event Companies
- Equipment rentals (lighting, LED walls, audio gear)
- Vendor bills (tent, catering, printing)
- Office rent and electricity
- Professional services like photography, logistics, etc.
Know how to claim Input Tax Credit for event-related expenses and services.
GST Impact on Event Management Services
| Before GST | After GST |
|---|---|
| Multiple service tax rates (12%/15%) | One uniform rate – 18% GST |
| Input credits not always available | Full Input Tax Credit allowed |
| Complex tax structure | Simplified invoicing and returns |
| Local taxes (VAT/service tax) | Replaced with one national tax |
GST Compliance for Event Management Companies
- Must register under GST if turnover exceeds ₹20 lakh
- Charge 18% GST on invoices
- Use proper SAC codes (998596) in bills
- File monthly or quarterly returns
- Maintain vendor records for claiming ITC
Understanding the event management gst rate helps both clients and event planners plan budgets, stay tax-compliant, and avoid last-minute surprises on invoices.
I am a Chartered Accountant with over 20 years of experience and a finance content writer. I focus on educating people about finance and taxation. I have written many blog posts on finance, taxation, trading, and investment on the BUSY website. My goal is to increase financial understanding by making complex concepts easier to grasp and to support educational programs in India.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What is the event management GST rate in India?The standard GST rate is 18% for all types of event management services.
- Is GST applicable to wedding planners and decorators?Yes, wedding planning, stage décor, and related services attract 18% GST.
- Can event companies claim Input Tax Credit on vendor expenses?Yes, ITC is allowed on most purchases/services used for executing events.
- Do clients need to pay GST separately?Yes, unless the service is offered as a GST-inclusive package, clients will pay Goods and Services Tax (GST) at 18%.
- Is GST applicable on individual vendors hired for the event?Yes, if they are GST-registered. Their services like catering, lighting, logistics usually attract 18% GST.
