The GST Council has recently decided to tax all used vehicles, including electric vehicles, at a uniform rate of 18%. This has led to confusion among car owners, who are now worried about the impact on their profits. However, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has clarified that the 18% tax will only be levied on the profit made from selling the vehicle, not the entire selling price. The video of her explanation has gone viral on social media, providing much-needed clarity to individuals and businesses.
The GST Council has decided to simplify the tax rate for the sale of old and used vehicles by prescribing a single rate of 18%, including Electric Vehicles (EVs). This will benefit both buyers and sellers as it streamlines the process and eliminates confusion about different tax rates for different types of vehicles. The update also clarifies that for registered individuals who have claimed depreciation under the Income Tax Act, they only have to pay GST on the margin between the selling price and depreciated value of the vehicle.
In the 55th GST Council meeting, the latest changes to GST rates were announced for various items. Ready-to-eat popcorn will now have varying GST rates depending on how it is prepared and sold. Pre-packaged popcorn will have a higher GST rate of 12%, while popcorn sold loose will have a lower rate of 5%. In the automotive sector, the GST rate for used cars sold by businesses will be increased from 12% to 18%. Additionally, vouchers will not be considered goods or services, and hence, will not be subject to GST.