Does a valid structure mean the GSTIN is active?

No. This tool checks the structure and check digit. Registration status (active, cancelled, suspended) must be checked on the GST portal under Search Taxpayer.

Why does the check digit matter?

It is a mod-36 checksum of the first 14 characters, so almost any single typo makes the GSTIN fail. Catching that before booking an invoice prevents a 2B mismatch.

Can one PAN have several GSTINs?

Yes, one per state of registration, and more than one within a state for separate business verticals or an ISD; the 13th character counts them.

What is the GSTIN state code list?

01 Jammu & Kashmir through 38 Ladakh, following the Census codes; 97 is Other Territory and 99 Centre jurisdiction. The validator shows the state for the code entered.

GSTIN Validator

Check a GSTIN's format and check digit instantly, and read the state, PAN and holder type encoded in it.

Switch tool

GSTIN

Checks the 15-character structure, state code, the PAN embedded in it and the check digit. It does not query the GST portal, so an active or cancelled registration cannot be told apart here; use the portal’s “Search Taxpayer” for status.

Result

Enter a GSTIN to check it.

Structural validation only. A structurally valid GSTIN may be cancelled, suspended or never issued; confirm status on the GST portal before claiming input tax credit.

How it works

15 characters

2-digit state code, the 10-character PAN, a 1-character entity number, the letter Z and a check digit.

Check digit

A mod-36 weighted sum of the first 14 characters; a single typo almost always fails it.

Decode

The state code names the state of registration; the 4th character of the PAN tells you if the holder is a company, firm or individual.

Reading a GSTIN

Every GSTIN is derived from the holder's PAN, so the same business has one PAN and a GSTIN per state of registration. Characters 1–2 are the state code from the Census list, 3–12 are the PAN, 13 counts registrations under that PAN in the state (1 for the first, then 2–9 and A–Z), 14 is always Z, and 15 is a check digit. Validating the structure catches most invoice typos before they turn into a GSTR-2B mismatch; the portal check confirms the registration is active.

Why it matters for ITC

Credit is available only on invoices from a registered supplier that match 2B. A wrong GSTIN on a bill means a lost credit until corrected.

Multiple registrations

A 13th character of 2 or higher means the same PAN has more than one registration in that state, such as separate business verticals or an ISD.

Composition and TDS deductors

Composition taxpayers have ordinary GSTINs; TDS/TCS deductors' GSTINs have a 'C' or 'D' type but the same structure.

Bulk checks

Validate your whole vendor master this way and fix the failures before the next 2B reconciliation.