New GST on Tailoring Service in India
- Tailoring services in India are taxable under GST, with rates depending on the type of service provided.
- The GST rate for basic tailoring services where stitching is performed on customer-supplied material is generally 5%.
- The GST rate for designing, stitching and supply of garments depends on the nature of supply and applicable classification.
- Tailors generally need GST registration if their turnover exceeds the applicable threshold limit, such as ₹20 lakh in most states and ₹10 lakh in specified special category states.
- Tailoring businesses can claim eligible Input Tax Credit on inputs and expenses such as sewing machines and shop rent, subject to GST conditions.
- Small tailors with turnover below the applicable threshold are generally not required to register for GST unless they choose voluntary registration.
Tailoring is a vital part of India’s clothing and fashion industry—from local darzis to designer boutiques. But is GST applicable when you get your clothes stitched? And if you run a tailoring business, should you charge GST? Let’s simplify the rules around gst on tailoring service in India, and how it applies to both customers and tailors.
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Is GST Applicable to Tailoring Services?
Yes, tailoring services are taxable under GST, as they involve labour, skill, and some materials. They fall under the category of job work or customised service depending on the business model.
New GST Rate on Tailoring Services in India
The GST rates applicable to tailoring services depend on the nature of the supply, including whether the service involves job work, designing, or supply of stitched garments.
| Service Type | SAC Code | GST Rate From 22 Sep 2025 | Rate Before 22 Sep 2025 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tailoring of garments (job work) | 9988 | 5% | 5% |
| Fashion designing + tailoring combo | 9988 | 18% | 18% |
| Tailoring for uniform contracts | 9988 | 5% | 5% |
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Note: Tailoring job work services under SAC 9988 were already taxed at 5% before 22 September 2025. The applicable GST rate depends on whether the transaction is treated as a tailoring service, job work, or a supply of stitched garments.
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New GST on Tailoring Services: Explained
| Scenario | GST Rate From 22 Sep 2025 | Rate Before 22 Sep 2025 | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Local tailor stitching your own fabric | 5% | 5% | GST applies if the tailor is registered and liable to charge GST |
| Designer boutique offering design + tailoring | 18% | 18% | Rate depends on the nature of supply and applicable classification |
| Uniform stitching for schools/companies | 5% | 5% | Applicable rate depends on contract structure and nature of supply |
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GST Rate From 22 Sep 2025
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GST Registration for Tailors and Sewing Businesses
- ₹20 lakh turnover threshold in general category states
- ₹10 lakh in special category states
- Home-based tailors are exempt unless they register or exceed limits
Input Tax Credit for Tailoring Businesses
- Sewing machines and stitching equipment
- Fabric and accessories (if billed as part of the service)
- Rent and utilities for shop or workspace
- Marketing and consultancy services
Learn how to claim Input Tax Credit (ITC) if you’re a registered tailoring business.
Understanding the gst on tailoring services helps both customers and service providers stay tax-compliant and accurately price their services, whether it’s a simple alteration or a custom designer outfit.
