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Reverse Charge Mechanism in GST

Complete guide to reverse charge in GST. When buyer pays tax instead of seller.

GetYourCA Team
22 February 2026·Updated 22 February 20261 min read12.5K views

What is Reverse Charge?#

Reverse Charge means the recipient pays tax instead of the supplier.

When is RCM Applicable?#

Goods:#

  • Petroleum crude
  • High speed diesel
  • Motor spirit
  • Natural gas
  • Aviation turbine fuel
  • Tobacco products

Services:#

  • Legal services (from advocate)
  • Director services
  • GTA services
  • Works contract
  • Restaurant (above Rs 75 lakh)

Registration#

  • Mandatory if RCM liable
  • Cannot opt for composition
  • File GSTR-1 with RCM details

Rate of Tax#

Same as forward charge Example: 18% on legal services

Compliance#

  • Pay tax under RCM
  • Claim ITC (if eligible)
  • Show in GSTR-3B
  • Issue self-invoice

Example#

Legal services: Rs 1,00,000

  • GST @ 18%: Rs 18,000
  • Paid by recipient
  • Claim as ITC

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GetYourCA Team

Tax Expert

10+ years experience

Disclaimer

We have taken utmost care to research and write this article for your information. However, tax laws are complex and subject to frequent changes. This article is for general guidance only and should not be considered professional advice. Individual circumstances vary significantly — what works for one person may not apply to another.

Before making any tax-related decisions, we strongly recommend consulting with a qualified Chartered Accountant or tax professional who can assess your specific situation. We do not accept any liability for decisions made based on this information.

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