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The Quick Method is a simplified accounting option available to help small businesses calculate their net tax for GST/HST purposes. This method reduces paperwork and makes it easier to calculate GST/HST remittances and file GST/HST returns because it eliminates the need to report the actual GST/HST paid or payable on most purchases.

Most GST/HST registrants are required to file their GST/HST returns electronically for all reporting periods that end on or after July 1, 2010. For more information, see Mandatory electronic filing for most GST/HST registrants.

These pages will provide you with the information to help you decide if you need or wish to register for the GST/HST and describe options you may have in setting up your GST/HST account.

The CRA is the federal government agency responsible for administering tax laws for the Government of Canada and for most provinces and territories, and delivering various social and economic benefit and incentive programs through the tax system.

We list the major changes below, including changes that have been announced but were not law at the time of printing this guide. If they become law as proposed, they will be effective as of the dates indicated. For more information on these and other changes, see the areas outlined in colour in this guide.

When a vehicle is used partially for business purposes and partially for other purposes, the expenses relating to its use must be apportioned. Only those expenses relating to the business travel or commercial activity are considered eligible for a business deduction and for input tax credits on GST/HST. The proration in such cases is done based on the distances driven. To support a deduction or claim, the person must know and be able to demonstrate the distance travelled for business purposes and commercial activities.

This change is a move to increase the efficiency of government while also delivering service and value to taxpayers. This change is also consistent with other leading tax administrations. More than 90% of corporate tax filers produce their returns using commercial software today, so this is about how they transmit the information to the CRA. Having large corporations make use of available technology not only makes good business sense, but it also supports sustainable development.

The law allows Statistics Canada to access business taxpayer information collected by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). Statistics Canada can now share with provincial or territorial statistical agencies, for research and analysis purposes only, data concerning business activities carried out in their respective province or territory.

The underground economy typically involves commercial activity that is unreported for tax purposes. It is of concern to the CRA, as well as all provincial, territorial and municipal jurisdictions, and all law-abiding businesses and individuals across the country.

Cash payments you receive are subject to GST/HST and you have to report them on your annual income tax return. Failure to do so is tax evasion, which has serious consequences.