SAC Code
998348
Description
Certification and authentication of works of art
New Rate
Old Rate
Notes
Authentication of art works included in 99834; standard commercial rate remains 18% before and after slab rationalisation.
Art Authentication Services support galleries, collectors, insurers and owners in confirming whether an artwork is genuine, how old it is and what condition it is in. The aim is to reduce disputes and support fair pricing.
SAC 998348 is used when the main work relates to professional certification and authentication services for works of art It is meant for professional assignments where the service provider brings specialised skills, tools and knowledge to support client decisions.
In practice, projects under this SAC code often include areas like art certification. Using SAC 998348 in such cases keeps the service description and GST classification aligned with the actual scope.
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Review old and new GST rates for Art Authentication under 998348 SAC Code.
From a GST point of view, Art Authentication Services are treated as supply of services. The taxable value usually includes professional fees, any testing or evaluation charges, report preparation fees and related support that is billed as part of the same assignment.
After the September 2025 GST revision, most consulting, testing and project support services that are not specifically exempt remain under the standard 18% slab. Business clients can generally claim input tax credit when these services relate to their taxable activities, subject to normal ITC conditions.
The table below sets out the current standard GST rate for SAC code 998348.
Certification and authentication of works of art
Authentication of art works included in 99834; standard commercial rate remains 18% before and after slab rationalisation.
SAC Code
998348
Description
Certification and authentication of works of art
New Rate
Old Rate
Notes
Authentication of art works included in 99834; standard commercial rate remains 18% before and after slab rationalisation.
In practice, firms that provide Art Authentication Services should apply 18% GST on the taxable value, mention SAC 998348 on their tax invoices and follow the same classification in GST records so that income from these specialised services is easy to track.
BUSY auto-applies the correct SAC codes & GST rates, ensuring 100% error-free billing every single time.
For the 9983 family, Art Authentication Services will normally map to SAC 998348, while other codes in the group should be used when the engagement clearly matches their described activity.
SAC 998348 is meant for Art Authentication Services where specialised knowledge, testing or certification is provided in return for professional fees. These services are generally taxed at 18% under GST, with ITC normally available to eligible business clients when used for their taxable operations. Using SAC with the correct GST rate in % helps keep service mapping and tax positions tidy across assignments.
Clear answers to common queries about SAC Code 998348 and GST compliance.
SAC 998348 covers expert services for certification and authentication of artworks, antiques and collectibles. It includes verifying originality, age, provenance and condition, and issuing formal certificates that help in valuation, sale, insurance or lending against such pieces.
Yes, this code includes art historians, galleries and specialist consultants who examine paintings, sculpture, rare objects and similar assets, and then certify authenticity or provide formal opinion reports. These services are widely used in high value transactions, auctions and insurance assessments.
Art authentication and certification services under SAC 998348 are generally charged at 18% GST as they fall under professional and technical services. Any change in rate or specific exemption would be notified separately, so service providers should always confirm with the latest GST schedule.
Yes, when billing clients for expert opinion, authenticity certificates or valuation linked mainly to verifying an artwork, SAC 998348 is the suitable code. If the engagement mainly covers selling the artwork itself, supply of goods and the relevant HSN code will apply instead.
Registered businesses that buy authentication services for their trading, gallery or investment activity can usually claim ITC, provided the artwork is part of their taxable business and ITC is not restricted under any specific provision. For personal collections, ITC will not be available.