What is the difference between a quotation and a tax invoice in India?
A quotation (or estimate) is a commercial offer that sets out scope, timeline and estimated cost before the work is agreed. A tax invoice is the document a registered supplier issues for an actual supply of goods or services, with the contents and timing laid down in Section 31 of the CGST Act and the invoice rules. The buyer claims input tax credit on the tax invoice, not on a quotation. Keep the two documents separate and label them clearly.
Which GST rate and SAC code apply to software development and marketing quotes?
On CBIC's Scheme of Classification of Services, SAC 998314 is "Information technology design and development services" and SAC 998361 is "Advertising Services". Most IT and professional services are taxed at the 18% standard rate under GST 2.0, but the right code and rate depend on what you actually deliver, so confirm them with your CA. If you supply services to a client outside India and qualify as an export of services, you can supply under a Letter of Undertaking (LUT) without paying IGST.
How is GST split between CGST, SGST and IGST on a quotation?
It depends on the place of supply. When the supplier and the place of supply are in the same state, the GST is split equally into CGST (central) and SGST (state), for example 9% + 9% for an 18% supply. When they are in different states, the whole amount is charged as IGST. Select the supply type in the tool and the tax lines change accordingly.
What should a B2B quotation include?
A quotation is not a statutory document, so there is no official checklist, but the usual practice is: supplier name, address and GSTIN or PAN; client name and address; a unique quotation number and date; a validity period (commonly 15 to 30 days); itemised scope with SAC or HSN codes; payment milestones; bank details; and terms on revisions and delays. The tool has a field for each of these.
Can a freelancer without a GST number issue a quotation?
Yes. A quotation does not need a GSTIN. Whether you must register for GST depends on your turnover and the kind of supply: for services the usual threshold is ₹20 lakh a year, and it is lower in some special-category states, so check the notification for your state or ask your CA. While you are not registered you cannot charge GST, so set the GST rate on each line to 0% and show your PAN instead.