HST/GST for Ontario Small Business: When to Register and How to File
HST trips up more small business owners than almost any other tax. Here’s the plain version.
When you have to register
Once your business earns more than $30,000 in revenue over four consecutive quarters, you must register for HST and start charging it. Some businesses (like ride-share drivers) must register from day one. You can also register voluntarily earlier to claim input tax credits.
Charging and claiming
In Ontario you charge 13% HST on most sales. The upside: you claim back the HST you pay on business purchases — input tax credits (ITCs) — so you only remit the difference. Missing ITCs is money left on the table.
Filing frequency and mistakes
You file monthly, quarterly or annually depending on your revenue. Common mistakes: charging HST before registering, missing ITCs, treating zero-rated exports as taxable, and filing late. We handle registration, filing and remittance so none of that happens.
FAQ
When do I need to register for HST? Once you pass $30,000 in revenue over four quarters — some businesses from day one.
How much HST do I charge in Ontario? 13% on most goods and services.
What are input tax credits? The HST you paid on business expenses, which you claim back so you only remit the net.
How often do I file? Monthly, quarterly or annually based on revenue — we set you up on the right cycle.
