What is a QR Code in e-invoicing?
A QR code is a two-dimensional code designed in a manner that helps machines read and interpret it. This two-dimensional quick response code plays a key role in the e-invoicing system. Every e-invoice must include a digitally signed QR code to ensure quick and convenient access to valid GST invoices.
When taxpayers upload invoices to the e-invoice portal or Integrated Reporting and Payment System (IRP), it verifies the invoice details. After validation, the IRP digitally signs the invoice and generates an e-invoice with an Invoice Reference Number (IRN) and a signed QR code. Taxpayers are required to print this QR code on the final e-invoice before sharing it with buyers.
Failing to include a valid QR code makes both the e-invoice and the associated e-way bill invalid, leading to non-compliance and potential penalties. Additionally, buyers cannot claim their input tax credit if the QR code is missing or incorrect.
The QR code also simplifies the verification process. Buyers can scan the QR code to confirm the authenticity and accuracy of the e-invoice. This protects them from accepting fraudulent or tampered invoices, safeguarding their interests, and preventing financial losses.
Why is a QR Code Required?
The e-invoicing system requires eligible taxpayers to upload specific tax invoices to the e-invoice portal or IRP for verification and authentication. Once the invoice is uploaded, the IRP validates the details, digitally signs the invoice, and returns it as an e-invoice with an Invoice Reference Number (IRN) and a signed QR code.
Taxpayers must ensure the received QR code is included or printed on the final e-invoice before sharing it with buyers. If the QR code is missing or incorrect, the e-invoice and the related e-way bill will be considered invalid, leading to penalties from tax authorities. Additionally, the buyers also lose the right to claim input tax credit.
What are the Features of QR Code Verifier App?
While the list of the features and benefits of the QR code verifier app is long, here are some prominent features of this app -
- User-Friendly Experience: The E-Invoice Verifier App features a user-friendly interface designed for easy navigation and a smooth experience. It supports the verification of invoices across all six Integrated Reporting and Payment System (IRP) Platforms. It ensures that users can e-verify invoices regardless of the IRP used. Its user-centric design allows users to explore various features and functionalities effortlessly. This simplifies the verification process, ensuring greater convenience and usability.
- Inclusive Verification: The app supports e-invoice verification across all six Integrated Reporting and Payment System (IRP) platforms, ensuring comprehensive coverage and convenience. This inclusive feature allows users to verify e-invoices seamlessly, regardless of the IRP used, providing a consistent verification experience across platforms.
- QR Code Verification: The E-Invoice Verifier app offers features that simplify the verification process, with its core functionality focused on QR code verification. Users can scan the QR code on an e-invoice to authenticate the embedded information. This step ensures the e-invoice's authenticity and integrity, confirming that the details are accurate and the e-invoice is valid.
- Non-Login Approach: The app doesn’t require users to create accounts or share sensitive personal information, ensuring privacy and simplifying the verification process. This means that the users can quickly access the app and verify their invoices.
How to Install QR Code Verifying App?
Steps to Download the E-Invoice Verification App -
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Step 1. Visit the Official Website -
Go to https://einvoice1.gst.gov.in/Others/QRCodeVerifyApp. The page will display the following screen.
- Step 2. Choose your mobile device's operating system (Android or iOS).
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Step 3. Enter your mobile number and click ‘Submit.’ An OTP will be sent to your mobile number (valid for 10 minutes). Enter the OTP and complete the verification.
After successful verification, the system will send a QR code.
- Step 4. Verify and download the app's APK file. Install the APK on your mobile device and use the app to verify e-invoices using QR codes.
How to Scan e-invoice QR Code?
Steps to Verify an E-Invoice Using the NIC Verification App -
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Step 1. After installing the app, open it and select one of the two verification options. Use this for quickly verifying a single e-invoice. You can select the first option if you want to quickly verify just one e-invoice.
To verify multiple e-invoices, use the "Verify Signed E-Invoice" option, which is the second option on the screen shown above. This feature is ideal for bulk verification. Simply tap the button and browse your device to upload the JSON file containing the e-invoices.
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Step 2. Scan the QR code on the invoice to instantly get the invoice verification details as given
The verification message confirms whether the e-invoice is signed by a government-authorized IRP. If the e-invoice is invalid, the app displays a message indicating that it is not a valid e-invoice.
Filing a GST return and being compliant with the GST laws can be challenging, especially for those new to the process. To ensure accuracy and avoid mistakes, it's advisable to consult professionals. Tax2win’s experts are ready to help with GST filing and answer all your GST questions. Book a tax expert today!