Critical GST Clarification on Input Tax Credit for Demo Vehicles: Key Updates for Car Dealers

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Critical GST Clarification on Input Tax Credit for Demo Vehicles: Key Updates for Car Dealers

 

Namaskar DOST!

A new circular (No. 231/25/2024-GST) issued by the Ministry of Finance provides vital clarification for car dealers regarding the eligibility of Input Tax Credit (ITC) on demo vehicles. This update helps vehicle dealers understand when they can claim ITC on vehicles used for demonstration purposes. If you’ve been wondering about the tax implications on demo cars, this circular is essential reading. Let’s dive into the details.

1. When Can Dealers Claim Input Tax Credit on Demo Vehicles?

Under the IGST Act, ITC is available on vehicles used for specific taxable supplies, including:

Further supply of vehicles

Transportation of passengers

Driving training services

Example:

Demo vehicles used by dealers for test drives and showcasing vehicle features are not considered to be used for passenger transportation or driving training. However, since these vehicles are used to promote further supply, they qualify for ITC.

Benefit for Dealers:

Dealers can claim GST benefits on demo vehicles used for further supply, helping them enhance their sales efforts without losing out on tax credits.

2. When is Input Tax Credit Not Available?

There are instances where ITC on demo vehicles is not allowed, particularly when these vehicles are used for purposes other than promoting further supply, such as:

Staff transportation

Employee commuting

Marketing or facilitation services for vehicle manufacturers

Examples:

If a dealer uses a demo vehicle solely for transporting staff, ITC is not available.

If the dealer only provides marketing services for the vehicle manufacturer and the manufacturer invoices customers directly, ITC cannot be claimed.

Impact on Business:

Dealers cannot claim ITC on demo vehicles not directly used for sales, leading to a potential financial disadvantage in these cases.

3. Capitalization of Demo Vehicles: Impact on ITC

If demo vehicles are capitalized in the dealer’s books, ITC can still be claimed, provided no depreciation is claimed on the tax component.

Example:

If a demo vehicle is capitalized, ITC eligibility remains intact. However, when the vehicle is eventually sold, GST must be paid under Section 18(6) of the CGST Act.

Benefit for Dealers:

Capitalizing demo vehicles allows dealers to benefit from ITC while managing their financial obligations effectively.

Conclusion

Circular No. 231/25/2024-GST brings much-needed clarity for vehicle dealers, allowing them to claim ITC on demo vehicles used directly for sales promotion. However, dealers must be mindful that ITC is not available for vehicles used for non-sales purposes, such as employee transportation or marketing on behalf of manufacturers.

 

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Disclaimer:

This blog is for informational purposes only. Always consult your GST advisor before making any business decisions.

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