Room Service HSN Code Explained for Easy Compliance: 1 Minute to Find Out the Right HSN Code for Room Service

Understanding the correct HSN (Harmonized System of Nomenclature) code for room service is crucial for hotels, resorts, and hospitality businesses. The HSN system is used worldwide to systematically classify products and services under the GST (Goods and Services Tax) regime in India, ensuring accurate taxation, compliance, and smooth invoicing. When it comes to room service, which generally means serving food and beverages to guests in their rooms, knowing the specific HSN code makes GST filing and compliance significantly easier.

For most businesses, room service falls under the same HSN category as restaurant services or supply of food and drinks. As per current GST regulations, the HSN code typically applicable for room service is 9963 (specifically, "Accommodation, food and beverage services"). This covers:

1. Room service meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner delivered to rooms)
2. In-room minibar services
3. Food and beverage delivery to rooms charged separately

Hotels must clearly demarcate these services on invoices, mentioning the HSN code 9963 for all room service-related charges. The GST rate will depend on whether the restaurant is part of the hotel and the declared tariff of the room, but typically ranges from 5% to 18%.

From an interior designer’s perspective, structuring your room service layout efficiently—like ensuring clear accesses for staff, dedicated food prep areas, and intuitive guest-to-staff communication panels—not only improves guest experience but also streamlines compliance processes. Thoughtful planning minimizes logistical errors and clarifies service charges, making GST and HSN usage frictionless for your hotel administration team.

Tips 1:

To avoid confusion in audits, always itemize room service charges separately from other hospitality services on bills and clearly state the HSN code. Keeping clear records ensures compliance and smoother interactions with GST authorities.

FAQ

Q: What is the HSN code for room service in hotels?

A: The HSN code is generally 9963 for room service activities in hotels, covering the supply of food and beverages to guests in their rooms.

Q: Is the GST rate for room service different from the restaurant GST in hotels?

A: The GST rate can vary depending on room tariff and whether the restaurant is in or outside the hotel, but HSN 9963 applies to both.

Q: Do packaged snack and minibar items have the same HSN code as room service meals?

A: If packaged snacks are resold as-is, they may have different HSN codes; room service-prepared food typically uses 9963.

Q: Should HSN codes be mentioned on every invoice for room service?

A: Yes, mentioning the correct HSN code on all relevant invoices is essential for GST compliance.

Q: Can hotels combine accommodation and room service under one HSN code?

A: Accommodation and food services can share the 9963 series, but it’s best practice to itemize each service for clarity.