---
url: /gst-manager-whmcs/licensing.md
description: >-
  How GST Manager licensing works — Leased vs Lifetime keys, the license-gated
  client-area bank-details display, and where to enter and manage your license
  key.
---

# Licensing

GST Manager is available under two licensing models, both providing full module functionality:

* **Full feature access:** Both license tiers enable all tax calculation, PDF styling, and reporting features.
* **License-gated display:** Client-area bank details block requires an active license.
* **Key management:** Keys are configured and validated under **Global Settings → License Information**.

## The two license types

| Type | What you get | Updates |
| --- | --- | --- |
| **Leased** | Active subscription access to all features | Updates included continuously while subscription is active |
| **Lifetime** | Perpetual license for the installed version | Updates require an active **Support & Updates** plan |

## The license-gated feature

Core invoicing and tax calculations operate independently of external server uptime:

* **Gated component:** Client-area bank details display on customer-facing invoice views.
* **Local license cache:** Background local validation prevents storefront disruptions during temporary network outages.
* **Uninterrupted operations:** Tax calculations, PDF generations, GSTR-1 reports, and checkout workflows never stop if licensing expires.
* **Restoration:** Re-entering an active key immediately restores client-area bank display.

## Where to enter and manage your key

Manage your license at **Addons → GST Manager → Global Settings → License Information**:

* **Status overview:** Displays license tier, validation status, and Support & Updates expiry dates.
* **Key input:** Enter your key into the **License Key** field (e.g. `Leased-XXXXXXXXXX`) and save.
* **Initial state:** Fresh installations display a **No License Configured** alert until activated.

![License Information panel in Global Settings](/gst-manager-whmcs/img/gst-licensing-panel.png)
*Addons → GST Manager → Global Settings → License Information*

## Related pages

* [Installation](/gst-manager-whmcs/installation) — where entering your key fits in setup
* [Updating](/gst-manager-whmcs/updating) — how updates depend on license type
* [Backup and restore](/gst-manager-whmcs/backup-and-restore) — what's kept when you update
* [Error reference](/gst-manager-whmcs/errors) — licensing and update messages explained