GST Number Search

What is GST Number (GSTIN)?

GSTIN or Goods and Services Tax Identification Number is your unique business identity with the GoI (Government of India) that contains 15 digits alpha-numeric PAN based code.

Why is it important to verify GSTIN or GST Numbers?

Verifying GST Number or GSTIN is very important as there are many cases where individuals manipulate GST Number (GSTIN). In addition to this, the GST Number search will help you to maintain transparency in all the business transactions and will ensure that you are filing correct GST Returns for the particular tax period. Further, GSTIN verification will also help you to claim Input Tax Credit that you might lose because of fake GSTIN.

Verifying GSTIN or GST Number is the need of the hour to ensure that your paid GST taxes land up in the right pockets. It is also your opportunity to contribute towards nation-building.

GST Number Search Tool

It is high and a good time to increase your awareness about GST Number, its quick authentication, and related facts:

  • GSTIN Misuse
  • Verify GSTIN online instantly
  • GSTIN or GST Number structure
  • Where and how to complain about fake GST No.?

GSTIN Misuse:

There can be instances where the supplier could manipulate customers by GSTIN Misuse. Here are some basic misuses of GSTIN:

  • Fake GSTIN
  • Bogus inward invoices

Verify GST Number Online Instantly:

The GST Search, a 100% online module has the remedy and GST number verification is just a few taps on your smartphone and you’re fed with the details within few seconds. There are two ways to verify GSTIN online instantly:

  • Masters India – GST Number Search Tool: As shown above, just enter the GSTIN or GST Number to be looked for in the search tab, in the correct format and click on ‘Search and Verify GST Number’ to find GSTIN information. The GSTIN Verification tool fetches the data directly from the GSTN portal and displays the GSTIN search results. It’s that simple.
  • Logging at the GST portal: Go to https://www.gst.gov.in/ – click on the dropdown of the Search Taxpayers – click on Search by GSTIN/UIN – enter the GST Number mentioned on the invoice in the search column – enter the captcha shown and click on Search.

GSTIN Structure:

It has also come to notice that the guys have devised innovative ways to fool people and ultimately the government. They just put an alpha-numeric code, against the GSTIN heading to dupe the consumers, which unarguably resembles a GSTIN. It is also critical to know, how a GSTIN is structured to spot any malpractices. Let us see, what constitutes a 15 character GSTIN or GST Number:

Search GST Number
  • The first 2 digits denote the unique state code in accordance with the Indian Census 2011. For instance, the state code of New Delhi is 07 and that of Karnataka is 29.
  • The next 10 characters denote the PAN number of the taxpayer.
  • The 13th digit denotes the registration number of the taxpayer with the same PAN number.
  • The 14th digit is ‘Z” by default for all – not intending anything currently
  • The 15th digit is the check digit – can be a number or an alphabet.

Knowing the above bifurcation can also come to help, when you’re in a dilemma about the authenticity of the GSTIN, while paying at the cash counter of your local merchant.

Where and how to complain about fake GSTIN?

Should you ever come across and spot any deviation about the GSTIN, you must know that you can also be a whistleblower. You can search GST Number on the website and let the authorities [Noida / Gurgaon] know of the any illegality by e-mailing them and also call them at helpdesk@gst.gov.in | +91 124 4688999 / +91 120 4888999.

Consumers must make efforts while paying any invoice to ensure that the GST number mentioned on the invoice exists at https://www.gst.gov.in/ to ensure that their hard earned money goes to the right pockets when paying for a GST invoice.

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Complete Guide to NSFAS Online Loan Application for South African Students (2025)

If you are a South African student looking to pursue higher education but are facing financial difficulties, the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is one of the most accessible funding options available. NSFAS provides financial aid in the form of bursaries and loans to qualifying students at public universities and TVET colleges in South Africa.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the NSFAS loan application process, from eligibility requirements to application steps and frequently asked questions.

📌 What is NSFAS?

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is a government-funded financial aid scheme aimed at helping students from low- and middle-income households to access tertiary education without the burden of upfront fees.

NSFAS offers both bursaries and income-contingent loans:

  • Bursaries: For eligible students who meet academic and household income criteria (especially for TVET and university students).
  • Loans: For students who do not meet all bursary criteria or who are pursuing postgraduate qualifications not funded under bursary schemes.

✅ Who Qualifies for an NSFAS Loan?

To qualify for an NSFAS loan (especially for postgraduate students or programs not funded under the bursary system), you must:

  • Be a South African citizen.
  • Be financially needy, with a household income of less than R350,000 per year.
  • Have a valid South African ID.
  • Be enrolled or accepted to study at a public university or TVET college.
  • Not be funded through another bursary program that covers all expenses.
  • Maintain satisfactory academic progress (returning students).

📚 Courses Funded by NSFAS

NSFAS primarily funds undergraduate qualifications, but certain postgraduate programs (e.g., PGCE, postgraduate diplomas in education, and professional courses like LLB) may be considered under the NSFAS loan scheme, not bursaries.

If you’re studying:

  • Undergraduate degree or diploma: You are likely eligible for a full NSFAS bursary.
  • Postgraduate study: You may qualify for a loan, depending on the course and funding availability.

📄 Required Documents for NSFAS Application

When applying, make sure you have the following documents scanned and ready:

  1. Certified copy of your South African ID or Smart Card.
  2. Parent(s) or guardian(s) ID documents.
  3. Proof of income (latest payslips, UIF, or affidavit if unemployed).
  4. Consent Form signed by your parent(s)/guardian(s) to allow NSFAS to verify income.
  5. Proof of registration or acceptance at a public institution.
  6. Academic transcripts (for continuing or postgraduate students).

🖥️ How to Apply for an NSFAS Loan Online

Step-by-Step NSFAS Online Application Process (2025)

  1. Visit the NSFAS Website

    Go to: https://www.nsfas.org.za

  2. Create an Account

    • Click on “MyNSFAS” and register your profile.
    • You’ll need a valid email address and South African cellphone number.
    • Choose a strong password and verify your account via email or SMS.

  3. Login and Start the Application

    • After registration, log in to your MyNSFAS account.
    • Click on “Apply” to begin a new application.

  4. Fill in Your Personal Details

    • Input your ID number, name, surname, and other details exactly as they appear on your ID.
    • Provide household income information and living arrangements.

  5. Upload Required Documents

    • Upload all supporting documents in PDF or JPEG format.
    • Each document must be clear and under the size limit specified.

  6. Submit Your Application

    • Review your application for accuracy.
    • Click “Submit” and wait for a confirmation message.

  7. Track Your Application

    • Log in regularly to check your application status.
    • You will be notified via SMS and email at each stage of the process.

🗓️ Important NSFAS Dates (2025)

  • Application Opening Date: September 1, 2025
  • Application Deadline: January 31, 2026
  • Appeals Period: February 2026 (if rejected)
  • Disbursement: After registration and approval

Note: Dates are subject to change; always confirm on the official NSFAS website.

💸 What Does the NSFAS Loan Cover?

NSFAS funding typically includes:

  • Tuition fees
  • Registration fees
  • Accommodation (if living away from home)
  • Meals and transport
  • Learning materials (e.g., textbooks)

For loans, repayment is only required once you start working and earn above a threshold (around R30,000 annually, but subject to change).

🔄 NSFAS Loan Repayment

Repayments are:

  • Income-contingent – you only repay when you can afford to.
  • Administered by DHET (Department of Higher Education and Training).
  • Interest-bearing, but interest rates are low and favorable.

You can also apply for a partial loan conversion to a bursary if you perform well academically.

🔁 How to Appeal a Rejected NSFAS Application

If your application is rejected, you may submit an appeal via your MyNSFAS portal:

  1. Log into your MyNSFAS account.
  2. Click on “Track Funding Progress”.
  3. If rejected, click on “Submit Appeal”.
  4. Upload any missing or corrected documents.
  5. Provide a clear explanation or motivation.

📱 NSFAS Contact Information

📝 Final Tips Before Applying

  • Apply early to avoid system overload near the deadline.
  • Use your own email and cellphone number (do not use someone else’s).
  • Double-check that all your documents are certified and legible.
  • Keep a copy of your submission confirmation for reference.

By following this guide, you can confidently apply for NSFAS funding and move one step closer to achieving your academic and career dreams—without the burden of immediate financial pressure.

 

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