Event Management GST Rate: Services Covered Under GST
Quick Summary
- Event management services, including weddings and corporate events, are taxed at an 18% GST rate in India.
- Services like sound, lighting, and venue booking also fall under the 18% GST rate.
- Companies can claim Input Tax Credit for expenses such as equipment rentals and vendor services.
- GST replaced multiple old tax rates with a single 18% rate, simplifying invoicing and allowing full input credits.
- Event companies must register for GST if their turnover exceeds ₹20 lakh and use correct SAC codes in billing.
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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New 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.
Old GST Impact on Event Management Services
(Old GST Rates – Applicable Until 21st September)
| 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 |
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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.
