GST on Advocates and Legal Services

Legal services are essential for individuals and businesses alike. But are they taxable under GST? The answer depends on who is providing the service and who is receiving it. This guide breaks down the gst on advocates, its applicability, and how lawyers and clients should manage it.

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    Are Legal Services Taxable Under GST?

    Yes, but with important exemptions.

    As per GST rules, individual advocates and law firms are covered under GST, but the responsibility to pay tax lies with the recipient of the service, not the advocate. This is done through a mechanism called Reverse Charge.

    GST on Lawyers: Key Points

    Service Provider Recipient GST Applicable? Who Pays GST?
    Individual Advocate Individual (non-business) ❌ No
    Individual Advocate Business Entity (Registered under GST) ✅ Yes (RCM) Client
    Law Firm Registered Business ✅ Yes (RCM) Client
    Advocate/Law Firm Government or Court ❌ No (Exempt)

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    GST on Lawyers Fees in India

    The gst on lawyers fees in india is:

    • 18% GST if the client is a registered business
    • 0% GST if the client is an individual (non-business)

    This tax is not collected by the lawyer. Instead:

    • The client (business) pays 18% GST under RCM
    • The lawyer does not charge GST on the invoice
    • The client must self-invoice and pay GST to the government

    Are Advocates Required to Register Under GST?

    Advocate Type GST Registration Required?
    Individual Advocate No (if only legal services)
    Law Firm No (if only legal services)
    Advocates with other taxable income Yes

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    Input Tax Credit (ITC) on Legal Fees

    If you are a business client:

    • You can claim Input Tax Credit on GST paid under Reverse Charge for legal services
    • You must record this in GSTR-3B as both liability and ITC

    Conclusion

    Understanding the gst on advocates helps both legal professionals and their clients stay compliant. While most advocates are exempt from registration, businesses must handle GST payments under RCM properly.

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