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What is a Vehicle Insurance HSN Code & How to Find it?

When you opt for vehicle insurance, the HSN code is a significant aspect of vehicle insurance. It helps to simplify tax compliance and ensures that there is proper categorisation for insurance-related transactions. 

HSN is especially crucial in car insurance, as taxation and documentation directly relate to a vehicle, assuring automobile insurance companies. This article will decode vehicle insurance HSN Codes and steps to locate them.

What is an HSN Code?

HSN (Harmonised System of Nomenclature) is the name for the internationally recognised classification of goods and services. It is a globally accepted systematic classification of all goods and services for taxation purposes. The HSN Code is a systematic categorisation developed under the auspices of the World Customs Organisation (WCO). 

This is a six-digit code that represents a specific category, sub-category, and details about a particular product or service. In India's GST system, HSN codes play the most crucial role. For example, vehicle insurance services come under the HSN Code 997134. This ensures uniform and accurate tax calculation, thereby avoiding errors.

Importance of HSN Codes in Vehicle Insurance

HSN codes bring massive benefits to the processes of obtaining vehicle insurance. Here's why it is essential:

  • Tax Compliance: HSN codes are used to ensure accurate tax payments by identifying the correct GST rate.

  • International recognition: Being a globally accepted system, HSN codes facilitate global trade and cross-border insurance services.

  • Simplified Filing: HSN codes reduce errors in filing and save time for businesses and individuals when filing their GST. It acts as a lucrative factor for insurance.

  • Transparency: HSN codes will ensure transparency between insurance providers, tax authorities, and policyholders, enhancing customer confidence.

  • Avoidance of Penalties: Utilising HSN codes helps prevent heavy penalties for incorrect tax filings. Thus, allowing you to save money on unnecessary expenditures.

What is Vehicle Insurance HSN Code?

The HSN code for automobile insurance is 9971 and falls under the category of financial and insurance services. The detail for each code is given in the table below:

Category Code Description GST Rate
Financial Services 9971 General insurance services 18%
Vehicle Insurance 9971 Coverage for motor vehicles 18%
Health-Linked Insurance 9971 Includes additional vehicle coverage 18%
Sub-Category of Vehicle Insurance 99713 Motor vehicle insurance services 18%

Why is the Vehicle Insurance HSN Code Significant?

The knowledge of HSN codes is essential for vehicle insurance under GST. HSN codes categorise services to ensure proper tax management. Here is a list of points reflecting the significance of the HSN code in vehicle insurance:

Ensures Accuracy

HSN codes classify vehicle insurance services under proper GST norms. For instance, motor insurance falls under code 9971, which is subject to a standard 18% GST rate. Thereby helping with tax planning.

Promotes Transparency

They establish a lucid connection among policyholders, insurers, and tax authorities. This is essential, as India earns over ₹27,000 crore annually from GST on insurance premiums.

Legal Compliance

The HSN code used evades penalties due to incorrect tax filings. In India, the penalty amounts to ₹10,000 or 10 per cent of the actual tax amount if the tax filer is found to be non-compliant.

Facilitates Audits

Correct HSN codes simplify the audits and inspections of tax authorities. GST audits in India are mandatory for business organisations having a turnover above ₹2 crores.

Improves Trade Efficiency

HSN codes are accepted globally and facilitate seamless cross-border transactions. This ensures insurers' compliance with international services under India's Goods and Services Tax (GST) regime.

Decreases Errors

Classification with HSN corrects instances of financial errors and tax mismatches. Input Tax discrepancies caused by misclassifications can hamper business cash flows. Thus, HSN classification reduces these errors.

How to Find the Correct HSN Code for Vehicle Insurance?

Finding the correct HSN code for car insurance is easy if you follow the procedure. It will ensure that you remain updated with GST laws and thus avoid errors in tax compliance. Here's the step-by-step procedure to find it:

Step 1: Check Government Websites

At the renewal time, the insured may be required to provide a self-reported statement verifying the miles driven during the preceding year. This confers an upper hand to the insurer, who shall use the information to calculate premiums.

Step 2: Use of Online Utilities

Use the HSN code directory, available on official government and private portals. Primary tax consultancy portals, such as the GST portal, provide accurate classification as they are regularly updated, and thousands of businesses utilise them.

Step 3: Approach Your Insurer

You will get the HSN code directly from your insurance company. There is usually a section in every insurance company to clarify customers' holdings of their policy. Therefore, you will find the correct information as per your policy.

Step 4: Verification from GST Portals

Verify the HSN code on the GST official portal. The GST portal in India is user-friendly and can verify the HSN code of services within seconds. This also reduces the probability of misclassifications and errors

Step 5: Seek Expert Advice

Seek the expertise of tax specialists or legal counsel to find HSN. Professionals are thoroughly updated on the latest GST rules. Therefore, it minimises the risks of non-compliance, enhancing efficiency. 

Step 6: Mobile Apps

Download apps that offer quick access to HSN codes for various services, including vehicle insurance. Many Indian apps, such as GST Helpline and Tax Adda, are free and easy to use. These apps save time and serve as a handy tool for policyholders.

Step 7: Stay in Touch with Your Insurance Provider

Your insurance provider must communicate effectively with you, as they will provide timely clarification and information. This will ensure that your policy updates are in line with current GST guidelines.

What is the Impact of Incorrect HSN Code Usage?

If you are aware of the impact caused by incorrect usage of the HSN code, you will be more likely to use it properly. Incorrect usage of the HSN code has severe consequences, including:

  • A tax authority may impose fines on a trader for misclassifying goods, thereby incurring unexpected financial burdens. 

  • If the HSN numbers are incorrect, it can result in a double payment or underpayment of taxes, leading to financial losses or severe penalties. 

  • Misclassification can cause customs to hold goods for inspection, resulting in shipment delays and potential supply chain disruptions. 

  • Frequent mistakes in HSN codes may lead to an audit and increased scrutiny from tax authorities, potentially resulting in litigation. 

  • An incorrect classification can result in the loss of benefits from various trade agreements or exemptions supported by those agreements, negatively impacting a business. 

Role of HSN Codes in Tax Calculation

HSN codes help determine the appropriate GST rate for a vehicle insurance product. They ensure that taxes are calculated accurately and uniformly, without errors or disputes.

For example, the GST rate of vehicle insurance falling under HSN code 9971 is 18%. For illustration, please refer to the following sample calculation:

Policy Amount (INR) GST Rate GST Amount (INR) Total (INR)
10,000 18% 1,800 11,800

Common Mistakes When Using HSN Codes in Vehicle Insurance

Using the HSN codes correctly is crucial for ensuring accurate GST compliance and avoiding penalties. However, there are mistakes, such as obsolescence or misclassification. Below are a few of the common mistakes to make you aware of:

 

Wrong Classification

Outdated Codes

Using old or obsolete HSN codes can result in penalties and rejected filings. The GST council in India frequently updates classifications, so staying informed about changes is crucial.

Absence of Verification

Failure to verify HSN codes against official resources increases the likelihood of errors. Verification through the GST portal or insurer documents will ensure the filing is accurate and compliant.

Not Updating

Non-compliance and fines result from ignoring updates from the GST council on HSN codes. GST notifications also help avoid any disruption in filing or processing returns if monitored regularly.

Note: Always verify HSN codes with official sources to avoid the imposition of penalties.

A Case Study on Impact of Using the Correct HSN Code

Accurate use of HSN codes in vehicle insurance is relevant for compliance and cost-effectiveness. Practical scenarios offer valuable insights into the appropriateness of HSN code usage. Here are a few case studies to support it:

Case Study 1: Better Compliance

A small Indian business avoided ₹50,000 in overpayment by correctly using the 9971 HSN code for vehicle insurance. By correctly classifying, they avoided the 18% GST, thus saving on the extra amount paid.

Case Study 2: Error Minimised

By utilising accurate HSN coding, an insurance company reduced GST filing errors by 30%. The above improvement smoothened the company's tax processes and increased its compliance.

Case Study 3: Increased Operational Efficiency

  • A logistics company streamlined its operational efficiency by 25% after updating its HSN codes to comply with the new GST guidelines. It reduced tax processing delays and cash flow hassles.

  • A regional insurer successfully won customer trust by clearly displaying the correct HSN codes on all policy documents. This led to a 15% increase in the customer retention ratio.

Note: Proper HSN code usage guarantees compliance and cost savings.

Glossary of Terms Related to HSN Codes and Vehicle Insurance

Understanding key terms is crucial for navigating HSN codes and vehicle insurance under GST effectively. This glossary provides simple definitions to help you better understand the concepts and processes:

Term Explanation
HSN Code It is used to classify goods and services for taxation purposes, and vehicle insurance falls under category 9971.
GST India has a unified tax system with an 18% rate for motor insurance services.
Input Tax Credit (ITC) Mechanism for claiming back GST on the inputs used to conduct the business.
GSTR-1 GST return forms submitted by the insurer regarding outward supplies, including insurance premiums.
GSTR-3B A summary monthly return submitted declaring the liability and discharging GST payment.
Exempted Services These are services on which GST is not levied. Vehicle insurance is one of the exempted services.
CGST and SGST These central and state GST apply to services rendered within a state.
IGST Integrated GST applies to the services rendered from one state to another.
TIN A Taxpayer Identification Number is a unique number assigned to entities to facilitate GST compliance.
GST Council This is the governing body in India that administers GST.
GSTIN Goods and Services Tax Identification Number is issued to companies for GST compliance.
Risk The chances or possibility of an event insured taking place, which is responsible for changing the policy terms.
Underwriting The task of measuring risk related to insurance coverage for an automobile and imposing premiums for this.
Policy Term The duration for which the policy on vehicle insurance is adequate.
Deductible The amount the insured must pay out-of-pocket before the insurance coverage takes effect and the remaining cost of the claim is covered.
No-Claim Bonus (NCB) A discount is offered to the policyholder for not making a claim during the policy period.
Exclusion The insurer will not provide coverage under specific conditions or circumstances.
Indemnity The compensation provided by the insurer restores the policyholder's financial position after a loss.
Endorsement A written amendment or addition to the insurance policy that alters its terms.
Reinsurance When the risk is passed to another insurer, risk exposure is reduced.
Actuarial Valuation Determining the risk involved and the premium rates on the insurance policy.
Lapsed Policy When a policy becomes inactive, it is generally due to failure to pay premiums or not renewing it.
Subrogation The procedure in which an insurer seeks to recover from a liable third party for the payment made under a claim.
Third-Party Insurance This insurance protects against damage to the insured vehicle, as well as damage to others' property or people.
Comprehensive Insurance This automobile insurance covers third-party damages and damages to the insured vehicle.
TPA (Third-Party Administrator) It is an organisation that manages insurance claims and other services on behalf of the insurer.

In summary, the proper understanding and adoption of the correct HSN code in vehicle insurance facilitate effective tax compliance and the smooth operation of operations, preventing errors that lead to penalties. It also ensures that insurance services are correctly classified under GST for the hands of both insurers and policyholders.

FAQs about Vehicle Insurance HSN Codes

What is the HSN code for vehicle insurance in India?

The HSN code for vehicle insurance in India is 9971, which belongs to the head of general motor vehicle insurance services under GST.

Why do insurance invoices include HSN codes?

HSN codes on invoices will ensure that tax classification is correct and help calculate GST for vehicle insurance services correctly.

Can the HSN code for vehicle insurance vary between policies?

The HSN code will be the same for all types of vehicle insurance and is usually 9971, so there is no need to worry about any other kind.

How can I verify if my policy has the correct HSN code?

You can review your policy document or contact the insurer directly to verify whether it includes the correct HSN code.

What should you do if HSN is listed wrong on an invoice?

If the incorrect HSN code is mentioned, please contact your insurer immediately for correction and request that the invoice be revised.

Is HSN code required for third-party vehicle insurance?

Yes, third-party vehicle insurance requires an HSN code, 9971, for tax compliance and management.

What is the HSN code of vehicle insurance in India?

The HSN code of vehicle insurance in India is 99713, categorised as "General Insurance Services." The same HSN code applies to all kinds of vehicle insurance.

Can HSN codes of vehicle insurance vary from one policy to the other?

No, the HSN code for vehicle insurance remains the same across all policies. For all types of vehicle insurance in India, the HSN code will always be 99713.

How can I check that the HSN code of my policy is valid?

Verify this through the document issued by the insurer or contact them directly. Almost every insurance document lists the HSN code on the invoice.

What should I do if the HSN code in my invoice is incorrect?

If the HSN code is incorrect, contact your insurance provider for a corrected invoice. They will reissue the invoice with the correct classification.

What is the GST rate for Vehicle Insurance Services?

The GST rate on vehicle insurance services is 18%. This rate applies to all kinds of motor vehicle insurance.

Is there some exemption in GST for vehicle insurance?

No exemptions are given for vehicle insurance services under the GST. According to the rules, they are subject to an 18% GST levy.

How does the HSN code influence the filing of GST returns in vehicle insurance?

The HSN code ensures that the GST rate is applied correctly. It facilitates proper tax reporting and compliance.

Will my HSN code for vehicle insurance ever change?

Yes, the HSN code for vehicle insurance may change in the event of updates by the GST Council. It is advisable to stay informed about any changes in GST regulations.

Is the HSN code the same for all types of insurance?

No, because the different kinds of insurance carry different HSN codes. Life insurance, for example, is assigned a different HSN code than vehicle insurance.