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Published on:

May 28, 2025

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GST Rates for Research Services Under SAC Code 9981: A Complete Guide for Businesses

It can be difficult to understand India's Goods and Services Tax (GST), especially for businesses that offer specialized services like research. Understanding the GST rates and the SAC code 9981 is beneficial if you work for a research institution, run a startup, or provide research and development (R&D) services in order to stay compliant and manage your taxes more effectively. The SAC code 9981, the GST rates you are thinking about, the requirements you need to meet, and some advice to help your business succeed will all be covered in this guide. Let's begin!

What Are Research Services Under SAC Code 9981?

Scientific research, market research, social research, and experiment development are just a few of the many activities that fall under the umbrella of research services. Universities, research centers, private businesses, or independent consultants can all provide these services. These services are subject to the GST system in tax matters under the Services Accounting Code (SAC), which functions similarly to HSN codes but exclusively for services.

SAC code 9981 specifically covers:

Research and experimental development services in natural sciences and engineering.

Research and experimental development services in social sciences and humanities.

Interdisciplinary research and development services.

This code belongs to Group 998 within the SAC system, which deals with professional, scientific, and technical services. Being aware of SAC code 9981 enables you to use the appropriate GST rate and keep up with tax regulations. If you are interested in learning more about GST for service providers, look at this GST compliance guide on GetSwipe.in.

SAC Code 9981: Definition and Scope

The Services Accounting Code (SAC) system in India helps classify services for GST, making taxes more consistent. SAC code 9981 falls under Heading 9981, which is all about research and development (R&D) services. This includes:

Natural Sciences and Engineering: Research in areas like physics, chemistry, biology, engineering, and tech.

Social Sciences and Humanities: Studies in fields like economics, sociology, psychology, history, and culture.

Interdisciplinary Research: Projects that mix different fields, like combining socio-economic studies with tech innovations.

Make sure SAC code 9981 appears on your invoices and GST returns if your business uses it so that the tax calculation is accurate. The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs website's CBIC SAC code list page contains the official list of SAC codes.

GST Rates for SAC Code 9981

Research services, which are coded as SAC 9981, have an 18% GST rate. Everybody pays the same rate, regardless of whether they are a business, research group, or independent consultant. However, there are some exceptions where lower rates might be offered, such as for government-funded projects or research conducted for educational institutions. I'll discuss that in more detail later.

SAC Code	Description	GST Rate
9981	Research and experimental development services	18%

GST rates are subject to change based on decisions by the GST Council. To stay updated, visit the official GST portal for the latest notifications.

Why SAC Code 9981 Matters for Your Business

Using the correct SAC code is essential for businesses offering research services. Here’s why SAC code 9981 is important:

Accurate Tax Application : The 18% GST rate ensures you charge and pay the correct tax, avoiding discrepancies.

Simplified GST Filing : Including SAC code 9981 on invoices and returns (e.g., GSTR-1) streamlines the filing process.

Compliance with Regulations : Proper classification prevents audits, penalties, or legal issues.

Input Tax Credit (ITC) : You can claim ITC on GST paid for inputs used in providing research services.

For tools to simplify your GST invoicing and filing, explore GetSwipe’s business solutions.

How GST Rates Impact Research Services Businesses

The 18% GST rate on SAC code 9981 affects research service providers in several ways:

Cost Implications: The 18% rate raises the price of research services for customers, which could affect demand, particularly for startups or small enterprises

Benefits of ITC: Providers can lower their net tax obligation by claiming ITC on costs such as software, equipment, or consulting fees.

Competitive Dynamics: Higher tax rates could encourage customers to haggle over prices or look for exemptions, which would reduce profitability.

Additionally, exemptions may apply in specific scenarios. For example, research services provided to recognized educational institutions or government-funded projects may be exempt or taxed at a concessional rate. Always verify eligibility for exemptions with a tax professional or check the GST portal.

GST Compliance Tips for Research Services Under SAC Code 9981

Ensuring GST compliance is critical for research service providers. Here are some actionable tips:

Include SAC Code 9981 on Invoices: Always mention the code, even if your turnover is below the threshold where SAC isn’t mandatory.

rack Exemptions: If you provide services to educational institutions, confirm if an exemption applies.

Claim ITC: Use ITC on GST paid for research-related expenses to lower your tax burden.

Use Accounting Tools: Automate GST calculations with tools like those offered by

GetSwipe.

Stay Updated: GST Council announcements for rate changes or new exemptions.

Detailed Breakdown of SAC Code 9981 Subcategories

For businesses with higher turnovers, using a 6-digit SAC code may be required. Here’s a closer look at subcategories under SAC code 9981 :

SAC Code	Description of Services	Rate (%)	CESS (%)	Effective Date	Rate Revision
9981	Research And Development Services	18	Nil Provided that Director (Sports), Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports certifies that the services are directly or indirectly related to any of the events under FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup 2020.	01/07/2017	18%
998111	Research And Experimental Development Services In Natural Sciences	18	Nil Provided that Director (Sports), Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports certifies that the services are directly or indirectly related to any of the events under FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup 2020.	01/07/2017	18%
998112	Research And Experimental Development Services In Engineering And Technology	18	Nil Provided that Director (Sports), Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports certifies that the services are directly or indirectly related to any of the events under FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup 2020.	01/07/2017	18%
998113	Research And Experimental Development Services In Medical Sciences And Pharmacy.	18	Nil Provided that Director (Sports), Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports certifies that the services are directly or indirectly related to any of the events under FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup 2020.	01/07/2017	18%
998114	Research And Experimental Development Services In Agricultural Sciences.	18	Nil Provided that Director (Sports), Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports certifies that the services are directly or indirectly related to any of the events under FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup 2020.	01/07/2017	18%
998121	Research And Experimental Development Services In Social Sciences.	18	Nil Provided that Director (Sports), Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports certifies that the services are directly or indirectly related to any of the events under FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup 2020.	01/07/2017	18.00%
998122	Research And Experimental Development Services In Humanities	18	Nil Provided that Director (Sports), Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports certifies that the services are directly or indirectly related to any of the events under FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup 2020.	01/07/2017	18.00%
998130	Interdisciplinary Research And Experimental Development Services.	18	Nil Provided that Director (Sports), Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports certifies that the services are directly or indirectly related to any of the events under FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup 2020.	01/07/2017	18%
998141	Research And Development Originals In Pharmaceuticals	18	Nil Provided that Director (Sports), Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports certifies that the services are directly or indirectly related to any of the events under FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup 2020.	01/07/2017	18%
998142	Research And Development Originals In Agriculture	18	Nil Provided that Director (Sports), Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports certifies that the services are directly or indirectly related to any of the events under FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup 2020.	01/07/2017	18.00%
998143	Research And Development Originals In Biotechnology	18	Nil Provided that Director (Sports), Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports certifies that the services are directly or indirectly related to any of the events under FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup 2020.	01/07/2017	18.00%
998144	Research And Development Originals In Computer Related Sciences	18	Nil Provided that Director (Sports), Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports certifies that the services are directly or indirectly related to any of the events under FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup 2020.	01/07/2017	18%
998145	Research And Development Originals In Other Fields N.E.C.	18	Nil Provided that Director (Sports), Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports certifies that the services are directly or indirectly related to any of the events under FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup 2020.	01/07/2017	18%

Smaller businesses can use the 4-digit code (9981), but specifying the 6-digit code improves accuracy, especially for audits or interstate transactions.

Common FAQs About GST Rates and SAC Code 9981

1. What is the GST rate for research services under SAC code 9981?

The standard rate is 18% , but exemptions may apply for services to educational institutions or government projects.

2. Do I need a 6-digit SAC code?

If your turnover exceeds ₹5 crore, use a 6-digit code (e.g., 998111). Otherwise, the 4-digit SAC code 9981 is sufficient.

3. Can I claim ITC on research expenses?

Yes, if the expenses are used for taxable research services, you can claim ITC on the GST paid.

4. Are there exemptions for research services?

Yes, services to recognized educational institutions or government-funded research may be exempt. Check the [CBIC website](https://cbic-gst.gov.in) for details.

5. How often do GST rates change?

The GST Council reviews rates periodically. Stay informed via the GST portal

Practical Scenarios: Applying SAC Code 9981

Here are a few examples of how SAC code 9981 and its 18% GST rate apply:

Market Research Firm : A company conducts a market study for a client, charging 18% GST under SAC 9981 and claiming ITC on software subscriptions.

University Research: A university provides R&D services to a government project, qualifying for a GST exemption.

Tech Startup : A startup offers AI research services, invoices with SAC 9981, and uses ITC to offset the 18% GST paid on cloud computing costs.

For more examples, visit Here.

Conclusion

Understanding the GST rate of research services under SAC code 9981 is essential for both financial effectiveness and lawfulness. You can streamline your business operations and focus on adding value if you utilize SAC code 9981 properly, maintain a default 18% GST rate, and know about exemptions. For an easier GST experience, utilize the tools from GetSwipe and remain current with the CBIC website.

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