Understanding GST on Director’s Remuneration: Key Highlights from Circular No. 140/10/2020
<p>In June 2020, the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBEC) issued Circular No. 140/10/2020 to clarify the Goods and Services Tax (GST) implications on the remuneration paid to company directors. This circular addresses the growing queries from trade and industry, ensuring that businesses understand the nuances involved in director’s compensation and its GST applicability. Here are the key highlights of the circular:</p><h3>1. <strong>Context and Objective</strong></h3><p>The circular aims to clarify whether the remuneration paid to directors qualifies as a service by an employee and thus falls under the exemption in Schedule III of the Central Goods and Services Tax Act, 2017, or if it is subject to GST under the provisions of the law.</p><h3>2. <strong>Categories of Directors</strong></h3><p>The circular categorizes directors into two groups for GST applicability:</p><ul><li><strong>Independent Directors</strong>: According to the Companies Act, 2013, independent directors are not employees or partners of the company, making their services taxable under GST. The circular states that any remuneration paid to these directors is subject to GST under reverse charge mechanism since the company is considered the recipient of their services<span> </span> ,<span> </span> .</li><li><strong>Whole-time Directors (Including Managing Directors)</strong>: For directors who are also employees of the company, the determination of their GST liability hinges on their employment relationship. If their activities as directors align with their role as employees under a contract of service, their remuneration does not attract GST. However, if any part of their remuneration is declared separately as fees for professional or technical services, that portion is taxable<span> </span> ,<span> </span> .</li></ul><h3>3. <strong>Service Classification</strong></h3><p>The circular highlights the importance of distinguishing between a "contract of service" (employment) and a "contract for service" (professional engagement). A director who operates in dual capacities can have elements of both within their remuneration, necessitating careful evaluation to determine the applicable GST treatment.</p><h3>4. <strong>Implementation and Compliance</strong></h3><p>The Board urges companies to ensure uniform application of these guidelines and encourages the dissemination of this information through trade notices. This suggests a proactive approach in compliance with GST laws to avoid any inadvertent penalties or misclassifications<a href="https://cms.plasament.com/storage/nisha/circular-refund-140-10-2020.pdf">circular_refund_140_10_2020</a><br> </p>