πΈπ¬ Singapore GST Calculator
Calculate Goods and Services Tax - Updated 2025
How to Calculate Singapore GST
Singapore's Goods and Services Tax (GST) is a value-added tax applied to most supplies of goods and services in Singapore, as well as imported goods. The current rate is 9%, which came into effect on January 1, 2024. GST is administered by the Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore (IRAS) and represents a significant portion of government revenue.
Adding GST to a Price
When you need to add GST to a GST-exclusive price, use these formulas:
Example: If the base price is $100 (excluding GST):
GST Amount = $100 Γ 0.09 = $9.00
Total Price = $100 + $9.00 = $109.00
Removing GST from a Price
When you need to calculate the GST-exclusive price from a GST-inclusive price, use these formulas:
Example: If the total price is $109 (including GST):
Base Price = $109 Γ· 1.09 = $100.00
GST Amount = $109 - $100 = $9.00
Understanding Singapore's GST System
What is GST?
GST (Goods and Services Tax) is a broad-based consumption tax applied to supplies of goods and services in Singapore, as well as on imported goods. It's a value-added tax where the final consumer bears the burden of the tax. Businesses collect GST from customers but can claim input tax credits for GST paid on business purchases and imports, ensuring tax only applies to the added value at each stage.
GST Rate Evolution
- April 1, 1994: GST introduced at 3%
- January 1, 2003: Rate increased to 4%
- January 1, 2004: Rate increased to 5%
- July 1, 2007: Rate increased to 7%
- January 1, 2023: Rate increased to 8%
- January 1, 2024: Rate increased to 9% (current rate)
GST Registration Requirements
Businesses in Singapore must register for GST if:
- Annual turnover exceeds SGD 1 million - Mandatory registration threshold
- Expected to exceed SGD 1 million within 12 months - Even if not reached yet
- Making supplies of goods from Singapore - Even below the threshold
Businesses below the threshold can voluntarily register for GST to claim input tax credits on business purchases.
GST Treatment of Different Transactions
Standard Rate (9%): Most goods and services are subject to GST at 9%.
Zero-Rated (0%): Exports of goods and international services. Businesses can claim input tax credits on related expenses.
Exempt Supplies: Some supplies are exempt from GST, including:
- Sale and lease of residential properties
- Most financial services (banking, insurance, investment)
- Sale and import of investment precious metals
- Supply of digital payment tokens
Input Tax Credits
Registered businesses can claim input tax credits for GST paid on:
- Goods and services purchased for business use
- Imported goods
- Capital goods and equipment
However, input tax cannot be claimed on:
- Personal or private expenses
- Purchases related to exempt supplies
- Motor car expenses (with limited exceptions)
- Entertainment expenses
- Medical expenses
GST Filing and Compliance
Registered businesses must:
- File GST Returns: Quarterly or monthly depending on business size
- Maintain Records: Keep invoices and receipts for at least 5 years
- Issue Tax Invoices: Provide itemized invoices showing GST component
- Remit GST: Pay the difference between output tax (collected) and input tax (claimed)
GST-Free and Exempt Supplies in Singapore
Zero-Rated Supplies (0% GST)
Zero-rated supplies have 0% GST but allow input tax credits:
- Export of goods from Singapore
- International services (transport, communications)
- Supplies to foreign embassies and international organizations
- Ship supplies to vessels proceeding overseas
- Aircraft supplies for international journeys
Exempt Supplies (No GST, No Input Tax Credit)
Exempt supplies cannot claim input tax credits:
- Residential Property: Sale and lease of residential properties (with some exceptions)
- Financial Services: Banking, insurance, investment, money-changing services
- Investment Precious Metals: Sale and import of gold, silver, platinum bullion
- Digital Payment Tokens: Cryptocurrencies and blockchain-based tokens
- Certain Healthcare Services: Services covered by Singapore's healthcare system
Items Subject to 9% Standard GST
Most goods and services are subject to the standard 9% GST rate, including:
- Food and beverages (prepared foods, restaurants)
- Alcohol and tobacco
- Electronics and appliances
- Clothing and footwear
- Motor vehicles
- Furniture and household items
- Professional services (consulting, legal, accounting)
- Utilities (electricity, water, gas)
- Accommodation (hotels)
- Transportation services
- Entertainment and recreation
Singapore GST Quick Reference
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Current GST Rate | 9% (effective January 1, 2024) |
| Previous Rate | 8% (January 1, 2023 to December 31, 2023) |
| Introduction Date | April 1, 1994 (at 3%) |
| Registration Threshold | SGD 1 million annual turnover |
| Administering Authority | Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore (IRAS) |
| Filing Frequency | Quarterly or monthly (depending on business size) |
| Tax Type | Value Added Tax (VAT) |
| Input Tax Credits | Available for registered businesses on purchases |
| Revenue Contribution | Approximately 21% of IRAS revenue (pre-rate change) |
| Rate Change History | 3% (1994) β 4% (2003) β 5% (2004) β 7% (2007) β 8% (2023) β 9% (2024) |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Official Singapore Government Sources & References
All GST data is sourced from official Singapore government agencies and trusted financial authorities:
ποΈ IRAS - Current GST Rates and Information π Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore (IRAS) - Official Tax Authority π IRAS - GST Registration Requirements π¦ Singapore Customs - GST on Imports π IRAS - GST Rate Change Information β IRAS - GST Basics and Exemptions