Telecom Equipment Rental Services Under SAC Code 997316
Telecom equipment rental services relate to renting switches, routers, wireless gear, base station units and other network equipment needed to run communication networks. Companies use telecom equipment rental and network equipment leasing for projects, events or temporary expansions where buying equipment is not practical. These services can include installation, configuration and periodic technical support. Under GST, such telecom equipment rental services fall under SAC 997316. This SAC code and its GST rate decide how GST is levied on telecom equipment rental charges and associated service fees.
Telecom Equipment Rental Services GST Rate for SAC Code 997316
Leasing and rental services under group 9973 are treated as supply of services under GST, even when the underlying item is a movable good. The taxable value usually includes the base rental charge, operator or driver fees where machines are supplied with manpower and any maintenance or handling fees that form part of the contract. Refundable security deposits and pure reimbursements of government levies can be kept outside the taxable value only when the conditions given in GST law are fully met.
After the September 2025 GST rate changes, most taxable leasing and rental services that are not covered by a special concessional entry are generally placed in the 18% slab with input tax credit for eligible registered business customers. Service providers should still check the latest notifications and circulars, as certain government schemes or specified sectors may enjoy different treatment for particular types of rental contracts.
The table below shows the latest standard GST rate for SAC code 997316 for telecom and networking equipment rental services.
| Code | Description | Old GST Rate (till 21 Sep 2025) |
New GST Rate (from 22 Sep 2025) |
Notes on change / inclusions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 997316 | Leasing or rental services concerning telecommunications equipment with or without operator | 18% with ITC | 18% with ITC | Telecommunication equipment leasing is aligned with other machinery leasing at 18%. Recent GST resources on leasing services maintain this rate and the latest rate rationalisation has not created a separate category for it. |
Once the correct GST rate is identified, rental providers should apply that rate in % on the taxable rental value, mention the SAC code clearly on invoices and keep their GST positions consistent across contracts and returns so that customers can plan cash flow and input tax credit smoothly.
Explore Other SAC Codes Under 9973
All these SAC codes fall under the broader leasing and rental services group 9973, which covers rental of machinery, equipment and other goods with or without operator. Each six-digit SAC within this group points to a specific type of rental service so that GST classification and reporting remain clear and structured.
The list below highlights key six-digit SAC codes under 9973.
Service providers should select the SAC that matches the main equipment being rented, whether it is agricultural machinery, construction equipment, office machines, computers or telecom and network gear. Using the correct six digit SAC and GST rate in % makes billing more transparent, supports proper input tax credit for customers and reduces the risk of disputes during GST reviews.
Conclusion
SAC 997316 is meant for telecom equipment rental services such as switches, routers and other network gear used in communication setups. These services usually attract 18% GST with input tax credit for eligible registered customers. When service providers classify rentals under SAC 997316, apply the proper GST rate in % and maintain clear documentation, they reduce confusion and make GST compliance more straightforward.
Important Disclaimer
The entire content on this page has been arranged to the best of the author's understanding and is subject to periodic updates as per the law for the time being in force. The above does not constitute professional advice or a formal recommendation. While due care has been taken in preparing this content, the existence of mistakes and omissions cannot be ruled out. BUSY Infotech Private Ltd. and its associates will not be held responsible for any loss or damage arising from any inaccurate or incomplete information in this document. We recommend consulting a professional tax consultant before acting on the information contained in this piece of content.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What does SAC code 997316 cover in GST?
SAC 997316 covers rental and leasing services of telecom, broadcasting and networking equipment. This includes routers, switches, Wi-Fi systems, telecom base station gear and similar communication infrastructure provided on hire to businesses, event organisers or operators for limited periods or long term projects.
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Does SAC 997316 include rental of telecom and networking equipment?
Yes. When companies hire wireless access points, network switches, telecom towers, communication racks or similar equipment for events or operations, such services are usually classified under SAC 997316. The lessor remains owner of the equipment, while the lessee pays rental or lease fees for its use.
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What GST rate applies to telecom equipment rental under SAC 997316?
Telecom and networking equipment rentals under SAC 997316 are generally taxed at 18%. GST is charged on the rental charges and any related service components, such as installation support. Suppliers should confirm whether any sector specific rule or composite supply treatment affects valuation or tax rate.
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Should event Wi-Fi and network gear rentals use SAC 997316 on invoices?
Yes. Vendors providing temporary Wi-Fi networks or event connectivity using their own routers and access points should usually use SAC 997316, especially where the main supply is rental of gear. If they deliver a fully managed connectivity solution, overall classification as telecom service may need separate analysis.
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Can businesses claim ITC on GST paid for SAC 997316 services?
Registered businesses using telecom or networking rentals for taxable operations can usually claim ITC on GST paid under SAC 997316. For example, IT companies, event organisers or data centres may treat such costs as input services. ITC is subject to general conditions like possession of invoice and timely filing.