Service Type
Advertising services (digital, print, media buying)
SAC Code
998361
GST Rate
18%
One-Stop Billing Solution for Marketing Services
Create branded invoices and manage client quotations, and share bills instantly via WhatsApp or email. Track invoices and manage payment status on the go, with advanced business reports from the mobile app.
Understanding Advertising & Marketing Services Under GST
Whether you’re running ad campaigns, writing copy, planning digital strategies, or executing offline promotions, your services fall under the GST regime.
You’re required to issue GST-compliant invoices for all client transactions, whether one-time projects or monthly retainers. If you handle both advertising and marketing, you may need to itemise your services based on type, platform, or campaign.
Types of Services Covered
- Print, radio, and digital ads
- Influencer campaigns and media buying
- SEO/SEM services
- Social media marketing
- Email marketing and content strategy
- Branding and design consulting
- Campaign analytics and reporting
GST Rates for Advertising and Marketing
The standard GST rate for most advertising and marketing services is 18%. Here’s how it applies:
| Service Type | SAC Code | GST Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Advertising services (digital, print, media buying) | 998361 | 18% |
| Marketing consulting and promotional services | 998362 | 18% |
Service Type
Marketing consulting and promotional services
SAC Code
998362
GST Rate
18%
If you're billing for ad space, influencer fees, and agency commissions in a single invoice, it's good practice to break them down and apply the right SAC codes.
Invoicing Requirements for Agencies and Freelancers
To stay GST-compliant, your invoice should include:
- Your name or company name and GSTIN
- Client’s name and billing address
- Invoice number and issue date
- Service description (e.g., “SEO campaign for June 2025”)
- Relevant SAC code (998361 or 998362)
- GST breakup (CGST/SGST or IGST)
- Total invoice amount
- Payment terms
GST Registration for Advertising and Marketing Services
You must register under GST if:
- Your annual turnover exceeds ₹20 lakhs (₹10 lakhs for special category states)
- You offer services across states
- You work with corporate clients or agencies that require tax invoices
- You plan to claim input tax credit on tools, ad spend, or outsourced work
GST registration helps establish credibility and makes you eligible for larger projects and retainers.
How to Stay GST-Compliant as a Marketing Agency
- Use proper marketing invoice templates or invoice software
- Include SAC codes, invoice number, and GST breakup
- Maintain digital records of all invoices and payments
- File your monthly or quarterly GST returns (GSTR-1 and GSTR-3B)
- Reconcile ad spends with input tax credits
How mazu Can Streamline Invoicing for Marketing Agencies?
1. Fully Customisable Invoices
Create polished, agency-style invoices that reflect your branding. Add your logo, adjust layouts, and include campaign details, deliverables, or hourly rates to keep billing clear and professional.
2. Quick Invoice Sharing
Send invoices directly to clients via WhatsApp or email in just a few seconds. Ensure faster approvals and smooth payment flow, no chasing required.
3. Advanced Reporting
Track earnings by campaign, client, or service type. Easily monitor unpaid invoices, project-wise billing, and monthly revenue trends with clear, easy-to-read reports.
4. Sales Quotation Management
Quickly draft and manage quotations for ad campaigns, retainers, or marketing packages. Add custom fields or attachments, and convert approved quotations into invoices or work orders in one click.
5. Effortless Payment Management
Manage all incoming payments from one place. Track payment status, modes (like UPI, bank transfer, etc.), and ensure consistent cash flow across all client accounts.
6. Create Invoices on the Go
Whether you're on a shoot or in a client meeting, generate invoices, quotations, or service orders anytime, anywhere using the mazu mobile app.
Frequently asked questions about marketing services invoicing
What is a marketing and advertising invoice template?
A marketing and advertising invoice template is a ready-to-use format for billing clients for services like ad campaigns, content creation, social media management, or media buying. It includes service details, hours or project fees, and applicable taxes.
Who can use these marketing and advertising invoice templates?
Freelancers, digital marketing agencies, ad consultants, and creative professionals can use these templates to send clear, professional invoices to clients.
Do these templates support multiple marketing and advertising services?
Yes, these templates can include multiple services in a single invoice. You can add line items for different campaigns, platforms, or deliverables, making billing transparent and organized.
What GST rate applies to advertising and marketing services?
The standard GST rate is 18%, applicable to both digital and traditional advertising as well as marketing consultancy services.
Which SAC code should I use in my invoice?
Use SAC Code 998361 for advertising services and 998362 for marketing consultancy or promotion services.
Do I need GST registration to work as a marketing freelancer?
Yes, if your income crosses the GST threshold or you work with interstate clients or agencies.
How can I create a professional invoice for my services?
You can download a marketing invoice template, use an advertising bill format in Excel, or generate invoices using mazu in just a few clicks.
Is there a billing tool designed for agencies?
Yes. mazu is an all-in-one tool for freelancers and agencies offering design, advertising, and marketing services. It handles GST, invoice generation,e-way bill generation and payment tracking with ease.