Tax rules scare a lot of freelancers, but the basics are manageable. Here's what matters when you're invoicing Indian clients — and why it belongs in your contract.
GST: when do you need to register?
Most service freelancers must register for GST once annual turnover crosses ₹20 lakh (₹10 lakh in some special-category states). Below that threshold, registration is generally optional. If you're registered, you typically charge 18% GST on most professional services and state it clearly on your invoice.
Always confirm your specific situation with a CA — thresholds and rules can change, and inter-state or export supplies have their own treatment.
TDS: why clients deduct a percentage
Business clients often deduct TDS (tax deducted at source) on professional/technical fees under Section 194J of the Income Tax Act — commonly 10%. This isn't money lost: it's credited against your annual tax liability and shows up in your Form 26AS. You claim it when you file your return.
Put it in the contract
- State whether your fee is inclusive or exclusive of GST.
- Note that the client may deduct applicable TDS and must share the certificate.
- Clarify who bears payment-gateway charges, if any.
How Pakkawork handles this
Pakkawork's generated contracts include standard GST/TDS clauses so there's no awkward surprise at invoice time. The contract states the tax treatment up front, and the client acknowledges it along with everything else — keeping the money conversation clean.
This guide is general information, not legal advice. For high-value or complex disputes, consult a qualified advocate.