GST vs HST: What’s the Difference?
Understanding the difference between GST vs HST is essential for businesses, freelancers, and entrepreneurs operating in Canada. While both are consumption taxes applied to goods and services, they differ in structure, rates, and application depending on the province.
This guide explains GST vs HST in a simple and professional way to help you stay compliant and manage your business taxes effectively in 2026.
What is GST?
GST (Goods and Services Tax) is a federal tax applied to most goods and services in Canada.
- Standard rate: 5%
- Charged nationwide
- Administered by the Canada Revenue Agency
* Provinces that use only GST may also have a separate provincial sales tax (PST).
What is HST?
HST (Harmonized Sales Tax) is a combined tax that includes:
- Federal GST (5%)
- Provincial sales tax component
* It is used in certain provinces, including Ontario.
Example:
- Ontario HST rate: 13% (5% federal + 8% provincial)
GST vs HST: Key Differences
| Feature | GST | HST |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Federal tax | Combined federal + provincial tax |
| Rate | 5% | 13% in Ontario (varies by province) |
| Application | Nationwide | Only in participating provinces |
| Administration | CRA | CRA |
| Simplicity | Separate from PST | Single harmonized tax |
* The main difference in GST vs HST is that HST combines federal and provincial taxes into one system.
Where GST and HST Apply
GST-Only Provinces/Territories:
- Alberta
- Northwest Territories
- Yukon
- Nunavut
HST Provinces:
- Ontario
- Nova Scotia
- New Brunswick
- Newfoundland and Labrador
- Prince Edward Island
Other provinces (like British Columbia and Quebec) use GST + separate provincial tax.
How GST vs HST Works for Businesses
If You Are Registered:
You must:
- Charge GST or HST depending on location
- Collect tax from customers
- Remit it to the Canada Revenue Agency
Input Tax Credits (ITCs)
Both GST and HST allow businesses to claim Input Tax Credits (ITCs):
* Recover tax paid on business expenses such as:
- Rent
- Office supplies
- Equipment
- Professional services
Formula:
Collected Tax – ITCs = Net Tax Owing
Place of Supply Rules
One of the most important aspects of GST vs HST is determining which tax rate to charge.
The place of supply rules determine:
- Which province’s tax applies
- Whether GST or HST should be charged
Example:
- Selling to a customer in Ontario → Charge HST (13%)
- Selling to Alberta → Charge GST (5%)
Advantages of HST
* Simpler system (single tax instead of two)
* Easier administration for businesses
* Reduced compliance complexity
Advantages of GST System
* Lower tax rate (5%) in GST-only provinces
* Flexibility for provinces to set their own PST
Common Mistakes to Avoid
* Charging the wrong tax rate
* Ignoring place of supply rules
* Not registering when required
* Missing GST/HST filings
* Not claiming ITCs properly
Why Understanding GST vs HST Matters
Knowing the difference between GST vs HST helps you:
- Charge the correct tax rate
- Stay compliant with Canadian tax laws
- Avoid penalties and audits
- Improve pricing and cash flow management
Final Thoughts
The key difference between GST vs HST lies in how the tax is structured:
- GST is a federal tax applied across Canada
- HST combines federal and provincial taxes into one simplified system
For businesses, understanding these differences is crucial to ensure accurate tax collection and compliance with the Canada Revenue Agency.