#hsn code

The HSN Code 996334: Catering Services in exhibition halls, events, marriage halls and other outdoor/indoor functions

HSN Code 996334 falls under Service Accounting Code (SAC) 9963, which covers food and beverage service activities under the GST framework. This code is applied when business provides food and drinks at events or locations decided by customer, such as weddings, parties, or corporate functions. Using correct HSN code helps in applying right GST rate, creating accurate invoices, and filing GST returns properly.

What is HSN code 996334?

The HSN code (Harmonized System of Nomenclature) and SAC stands for Services Accounting Code. It is system developed by GST Council of India to classify every type of service or product for purpose of GST (Goods and Services Tax) billing and compliance. Every service business in India, including caterers, must mention correct HSN SAC code on their invoices. 

HSN code 996334 specifically covers:

“Catering Services in exhibition halls, events, marriage halls, and other outdoor/indoor functions”

If your business involves preparing and serving food at:

Wedding receptions and marriage halls

Birthday parties and social events

Corporate events and conferences

Exhibition halls and trade fairs

Outdoor parties, get-togethers, or private gatherings

Indoor banquet functions

Note: many people use HSN and SAC like its same thing, but there is small difference: HSN (Harmonized System of Nomenclature) is used for goods, and SAC is meant for services. In daily GST filing and invoice billing software, both often called “HSN codes”, this can be confusing at first but HSN code 996334 and SAC code 996334 means same thing used for catering services. 

The main heading 9963 HSN code covers wide range of services related to food, beverages and hospitality. Under this category, you’ll find several related codes, such as:

996331 – Services by restaurants, cafes, and eating facilities (including takeaway and food delivery)

996332 – Services by hotels, inns, and guest houses including room service and food delivery

996333 – Services in canteens and similar establishments

996334 – Catering services at events, marriage halls, and outdoor/indoor functions (your code)

996335 – Catering services in trains and flights

996337 – Other contract food services

So, HSN code 996334 comes under sub-category that is specifically meant for event and marriage hall catering services. This is very relevant and important code for your business. If you want to make sure you’re using correct code, always check it using HSN SAC code finder

GST rate applicable on HSN code 996334

As per current GST rules 2026 in India. Catering services GST rate under HSN SAC code 996334 is 18% GST with ITC (9% CGST + 9% SGST) and 5% GST rate without Input Tax Credit (ITC) when catering is provided as service. This is standard GST rate applicable and understanding GST on catering service is important for proper billing and compliance. 

If you’re small caterer with and annual turnover below GST registration limit you may not need to register for GST, but once you cross that limit or choose to register voluntarily you must charge applicable Catering services GST rate and include HSN code 996334 on your invoices

The HSN/SAC full form stands for Harmonized System of Nomenclature and Services Accounting Code. The HSN code is applied to goods and items, whereas SAC is applied to services provided by professionals and firms. These codes are used in the GST structure to classify goods/services for proper taxation and invoicing.

A company can find the proper HSN (Harmonized System of Nomenclature) code that applies to its product with regard to GST (Goods and Services Tax) by using the efficient Search HSN process. An HSN code is the code used to classify a particular product for billing, taxation, and invoice purposes. Through searching for the correct HSN code, one can determine the appropriate GST rate.

Introduction

The Harmonized System of Nomenclature (HSN) plays a crucial role in international business, invoicing, and the submission of GST returns. The HSN code facilitates the classification of products based on the GST law and taxation accordingly. Depending on the organization's requirements, different numbers are used for classification and invoicing. The use of online portals and HSN code search has also facilitated businesses in identifying their product category and the percentage of goods and services.

What are HSN codes?

HSN codes are a set of numbers that help identify products for GST. These HSN codes make it easy for companies to find the products and apply the right amount of GST. The benefit of HSN codes is that they make it very easy to identify goods. This means that doing business is easier too. HSN Codes are important because they help with this. 

How do they help classify products properly?

The use of HSN codes is crucial for classifying products based on their uses. Businesses can classify their products easily and prevent errors when paying GST by using the HSN Finder tool. 

Why HSN codes are used in GST

HSN codes are used for creating a uniform tax system under GST. HSN codes enable companies to apply GST rates and ensure consistency in their product classification. An online HSN code search can save businesses a lot of time when applying for GST. Businesses often perform an HSN code search to verify product categories before GST filing

The necessity of HSN codes on invoices and GST returns for businesses

All businesses must include HSN codes on invoices and returns filed under GST to achieve effective tax compliance. Correct HSN coding helps in reducing invoice discrepancies and errors in GST filings. People who own businesses prefer to use an HSN code finder, an HSN finder, or even an HSN SAC code finder to ensure they find the GST classification.

The importance of standardised product classification

Businesses use HSN codes to categorize products. This makes it easier to trade. It is clearer. HSN codes also help avoid uncertainty when companies are required to file their taxes. HSN codes are crucial for businesses to use when they're filing taxes. Moreover, businesses can keep their records by using HSN codes. With the help of an HSN finder or an HSN SAC code finder, the job becomes easier. Businesses often rely on an HSN SAC code finder to simplify both product and service classification.

The Structure of HSN Codes

The HSN framework puts products into a systematic classification system with 21 sections and 99 chapters. Each chapter is broken down into lots of headings and subheadings. This makes it easy to find what you are looking for. Each HSN code has a structure. The first two digits are for the chapter. The next two digits are for the heading. The next two digits are for the subheading. The last two digits are for the tariff item.

4-Digit HSN Code:

The 4-Digit HSN Code is part of the Harmonised System of Nomenclature

It is a way to put all products into groups.

The 4-Digit HSN Code helps to do this by looking at what industry the 4-Digit HSN Code products belong to.

This is very useful for customs and GST in India.

They use the 4-digit HSN Code to classify products and charge taxes on the 4-digit HSN Code products.

The 4-digit HSN code is part of a system with 21 sections, 99 chapters, 1,244 headings and 5,224 subheadings. 

The 4-digit HSN code is made up of two parts:

The first two digits are for the chapter. This is like a category. There are 99 chapters in the HSN code.

The next two digits are for the heading. This narrows down the chapter to a group of products.

Let's take an example of the rice HSN code 1006:

The first two digits, 10, are for Chapter 10. This chapter is for all cereals.

The next two digits, 06, are for Heading 06. This heading is for Rice.

6-Digit HSN Code:

The HSN code is used all over the world to classify products. This helps with taxes and trade. The World Customs Organization made this system.

Let's take the example of the corn HSN code 071040:

The first two digits, 07, are for the chapter. This chapter is for vegetables and edible plants.

The next two digits, 07, and the next two digits, 10, are for the heading. This heading is for vegetables.

The last two digits, 40, are for the subheading. This subheading is for the Sweet Corn HSN code.

8-Digit HSN Code:

The HSN code classifies goods for tax purposes. In India, the 8-digit code is used.

For example, the tower bolt HSN code is 83024120:

The first two digits, 83, are for the chapter. This chapter is for metal hardware and fittings.

The next two digits, 83, and the next two digits, 02, are for the heading. This heading is for metal mountings and fittings.

The next two digits, 41, are for the subheading. This subheading is for hardware for buildings.

The last two digits, 20, are for the tariff item. This tariff item is for tower bolts HSN code.

Who Should Use 4, 6, or 8 Digit HSN Codes? 

The number of HSN code digits that need to be mentioned on your invoices will entirely depend on your firm’s yearly income and the type of operations being performed by you.

The specific requirements are broken down as follows:

1.   4-Digit HSN Codes

Business entities with an annual aggregate turnover of not more than ₹5 crores in the preceding financial year.

Only for Business-to-Business (B2B) tax invoices; optional for Business-to-Consumer (B2C).

For example: 

Manufacturing services - 9988

Cotton - 5208

Plastics and articles thereof - 3920

2.  6-Digit HSN Codes

Those business organisations whose annual turnover exceeds ₹5 Crores in the preceding financial year.

In a mandatory manner, both B2B and B2C tax invoices. It is internationally standardized to represent goods during trade.

For Example: 

Management consulting - 998311

Footwear Business - 640399

Hardware Products Business - 830241

3.  8-Digit HSN Codes

All organisations that carry out export/import operations.

Mandatory in any type of transaction related to international trade (exports/imports), irrespective of the annual turnover of the organisation.

For example: 

Wedding Card HSN code - 49090010

LED Televisions HSN code - 85287211 

Smartphones HSN code - 85171300 

HSN Code Requirements for Businesses Under GST

Under the GST system, businesses use HSN codes on invoices and GST returns. This is because the HSN codes help classify products in a way that makes tax payments more accurate and easier for businesses to follow the rules.

Businesses have to use HSN codes when they make invoices and file GST returns.

The number of digits in the HSN code depends on how much money the business makes in a year.

Big. Companies that export things usually use HSN codes with 6 or 8 digits.

If businesses use the HSN code, they can avoid making mistakes when they pay taxes.

Businesses often use an HSN code search or an HSN finder to identify accurate classifications for their products. 

They can use an HSN SAC code finder to search for classifications of goods and services

Benefits of Using Correct HSN Codes

Enables proper application of GST rates to goods.

Removes the scope of error in invoices and GST documentation.

Helps in filing the GST return more effectively.

Improves the ability to classify products and manage stock.

Helps in clarity in business transactions.

GST wrong classification of goods.

Classification of goods in import and export transactions.

Stops notices and issues of GST.

Time-saving, as there is a lookup feature for HSN codes online.

Use of an HSN code finder enables quick and easy classification.

It helps companies in identifying the precise product category.

HSN Finder improves the accuracy of taxes and invoices.

Use of the HSN SAC code finder allows the search for goods and services codes 

Examples of 4, 6 & 8 Digit HSN Codes

4-Digit HSN Codes

Iron and steel HSN code - 7216

Wood Charcoal HSN code - 4402

Coffee, tea, mate and spices HSN code - 0901

6-Digit HSN Codes

Sweet Corn HSN Code - 071040

Knitted or crocheted fabrics HSN Code - 600634

Mustard Seed HSN code - 120750

8-Digit HSN Codes

Tower Bolt HSN code - 83024120

Wedding Card HSN code - 49090010

Attar HSN code - 33019031

Final Thoughts on Choosing the Right HSN Code 

HSN Code Search is a convenient application designed to help organisations find the most suitable HSN codes to describe their products systematically under the GST regime.

With an HSN code search tool, there is no need to scroll down the list of products to search for a required one. It is easy enough to enter the product name into the search box to get its HSN code immediately.

It is extremely important to determine the right HSN code for a good, since its incorrect identification leads to errors in GST calculations. Thus, a special HSN code search tool may be helpful for those who want to avoid any compliance issues.

This tool is quite beneficial for businessmen dealing with various types of goods and services used in invoices and returns. Thus, the process will become much quicker.

The HSN Code 996334: Catering Services in exhibition halls, events, marriage halls and other outdoor/indoor functions

HSN Code 996334 falls under Service Accounting Code (SAC) 9963, which covers food and beverage service activities under the GST framework. This code is applied when business provides food and drinks at events or locations decided by customer, such as weddings, parties, or corporate functions. Using correct HSN code helps in applying right GST rate, creating accurate invoices, and filing GST returns properly.

What is HSN code 996334?

The HSN code (Harmonized System of Nomenclature) and SAC stands for Services Accounting Code. It is system developed by GST Council of India to classify every type of service or product for purpose of GST (Goods and Services Tax) billing and compliance. Every service business in India, including caterers, must mention correct HSN SAC code on their invoices. 

HSN code 996334 specifically covers: “Catering Services in exhibition halls, events, marriage halls, and other outdoor/indoor functions”

If your business involves preparing and serving food at:

Wedding receptions and marriage halls

Birthday parties and social events

Corporate events and conferences

Exhibition halls and trade fairs

Outdoor parties, get-togethers, or private gatherings

Indoor banquet functions

Note: many people use HSN and SAC like its same thing, but there is small difference: HSN (Harmonized System of Nomenclature) is used for goods, and SAC is meant for services. In daily GST filing and invoice billing software, both often called “HSN codes”, this can be confusing at first but HSN code 996334 and SAC code 996334 means same thing used for catering services. 

The hsn sac code finder is a helpful tool that allows users to quickly find the appropriate goods or services codes. It enables users to effortlessly find the necessary HSN code for products and SAC for services within the GST framework by searching using product or service names or relevant keywords. It also allows users to input incomplete HSN codes. It simplifies the process significantly by reducing the time needed for manually finding the correct HSN and SAC codes.

This useful tool removes the complication from a GST-compliant enterprise. This method allows companies to easily determine how their products and services fit into specific categories under GST. Utilizing such a tool is very beneficial for individuals managing various products and services.

Companies must implement the correct code when creating invoices and processing returns. Inaccurate code may lead to various problems, including compliance issues. Therefore, the use of an HSN/SAC Code Finder prevents issues such as errors or hold-ups.

An HSN Finder is a helpful tool that enables users to search and identify the correct Harmonized System of Nomenclature (HSN) or Service Accounting Code (SAC) for goods and services under the GST system. By simply entering a product or service name, or even a code, users can quickly access accurate classification details. This ensures that businesses apply the correct tax rates and remain compliant with GST regulations. 

HSN codes are part of an internationally recognized system used to classify goods in a structured manner, making taxation and trade more organized. In India, these codes are essential for GST filing, invoicing, and maintaining proper records. The tool simplifies the process by eliminating the need for manual searching through complex classification lists. 

The HSN Finder also helps businesses avoid errors in tax reporting, which can lead to penalties or compliance issues. It is especially useful for traders, manufacturers, and service providers who deal with multiple products or services.