GST/HST Return Toronto | Scarborough

Expert GST/HST Return Filing for Small Businesses, Professionals & Self-Employed Canadians by our Small Business Accountants Toronto

If your business is registered for the Goods and Services Tax (GST) or the Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) in Canada, you are required by law to file GST/HST returns regularly. Whether you’re a self-employed consultant, a small incorporated business, or a growing professional corporation, timely and accurate GST/HST return filing is crucial for compliance.

Our Toronto-based CPA firm and Small Business Accountants specialize in helping small businesses and independent professionals stay compliant with Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) requirements while minimizing audit risk and optimizing filing strategies.

Who Needs to File a GST/HST Return?

You must file a GST/HST return if:

  • You’re registered for GST/HST with the CRA.
  • You exceed the $30,000 small supplier threshold in gross taxable revenues in a calendar quarter or over four consecutive quarters.
  • You voluntarily registered for GST/HST, even if under the threshold.
  • You operate as a sole proprietor, partnership, or corporation and provide taxable goods or services in Canada.

📌 Note: Even if you have no sales or no GST/HST payable, you must still file a nil return if registered.

Source: CRA – Who needs to file GST/HST return

You can read the GST/HST Guide for Small Businesses and Professional Corporations in Canada to understand how GST/HST works.

Our GST/HST Return Filing Services

We offer end-to-end GST/HST compliance support, including:

  • GST/HST account registration and deregistration
  • Accurate GST/HST return preparation (monthly, quarterly, or annually)
  • Reconciliation of GST/HST collected vs. input tax credits (ITCs)
  • Audit support and CRA correspondence
  • GST/HST New Housing Rebate applications (where applicable)
  • Filing nil returns and adjusting past returns
  • Cash vs. accrual method consultation

Filing Timelines, Tax Rates & Penalties

🔹 Filing Frequencies:

  • Annual (for businesses with revenues under $1.5 million)
  • Quarterly (revenues between $1.5M – $6M)
  • Monthly (revenues over $6M)

Note: You can elect a more frequent filing period for cash flow reasons.

🔹 Current GST/HST Rates (as of 2025):

  • Ontario (HST): 13%
  • Other provinces: 5% GST or varying HST (e.g., 15% in PEI, Nova Scotia, etc.)

CRA – GST/HST Rates by Province

🔹 Due Dates:

  • Annual filers (most self-employed): due 3 months after fiscal year-end
  • Quarterly/monthly filers: due 1 month after the end of the reporting period

🔹 Penalties for Late Filing:

  • 1% of the amount owing + 0.25% for each full month late (up to 12 months)
  • Additional interest may apply on unpaid amounts

Avoid costly penalties by filing accurately and on time with our Small Business Accountants Toronto.

Why Choose Us for GST/HST Return Filing?

✅ CRA-compliant filings that stand up to audit scrutiny

✅ Tailored advice for self-employed, corporations, and service-based businesses

✅ Representation with CRA – we handle CRA letters and audits

✅ Quick turnaround to meet urgent deadlines

✅ Trusted by Toronto professionals in legal, healthcare, real estate, consulting, and more

✅ Flat-fee or package pricing with no hidden costs

GST/HST Return

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What happens if I don’t file my GST/HST return on time?

You’ll face late filing penalties and daily interest on unpaid taxes. Even if you owe nothing, a nil return is mandatory to stay compliant.

2. Can I file my GST/HST return online?

Yes, through the CRA’s My Business Account or authorized tax software. As your Small Business Accountant Toronto, we can file on your behalf securely and efficiently.

3. What’s the difference between GST and HST?

GST is a federal tax (5%), while HST combines federal and provincial taxes into one (e.g., 13% in Ontario). Whether you charge GST or HST depends on where your customers are located.

4. Can I claim input tax credits (ITCs)?

Yes—businesses can recover the GST/HST paid on eligible business expenses. We ensure you’re maximizing these credits properly.

5. Can I change my filing frequency?

Yes, you can request a change via CRA. We can advise on the pros and cons based on your cash flow and business size.

Get Professional GST/HST Support Today

Don’t let GST/HST return filing become a burden. Let a trusted Toronto CPA handle it for you with precision, speed, and compliance.

📧 Email us: info@maqcpa.ca
📞 Call us: (416) 901-4126