How to use GST / HST Calculator Canada?
- Enter Province / Territory
- Enter Amount (CAD)
Then click the calculate button & see your result.
GST / HST Calculator Canada
What is GST in Canada?
GST (Goods and Services Tax) is a 5% federal tax applied across Canada.
This is the same percentage in every province and territory.
You pay GST on:
- Most goods and services
- Restaurant bills
- Online purchases
- Professional services
- Electronics, clothing, etc.
GST is collected by the Federal Government.
What is HST in Canada?
HST (Harmonized Sales Tax) is a combination of:
- 5% GST (federal)
- Provincial Sales Tax (PST) of that province
Instead of charging GST + PST separately, some provinces combine them into one single tax, the HST.
Why Some Provinces Use GST Only and Some Use HST
Canada has two types of tax systems:
- GST + PST (separate taxes)
- HST (combined tax)
Each province chooses based on its policy, revenue system, and business structure.
GST vs HST by Province — Explained Simply
Below is the gst hst vs gst breakdown by province Canada explained chart:
Provinces Using HST (Combined Tax)
| Province | HST Rate |
| Ontario | 13% |
| Nova Scotia | 15% |
| Newfoundland & Labrador | 15% |
| Prince Edward Island | 15% |
| New Brunswick | 15% |
Provinces Using GST Only (and separate PST if needed)
| Province/Territory | GST | PST (if any) | Total Tax |
| Alberta | 5% | 0% | 5% |
| British Columbia | 5% | 7% | 12% |
| Saskatchewan | 5% | 6% | 11% |
| Manitoba | 5% | 7% | 12% |
| Quebec | 5% | 9.975% (QST) | 14.975% |
| Yukon | 5% | 0% | 5% |
| Northwest Territories | 5% | 0% | 5% |
| Nunavut | 5% | 0% | 5% |
Simple Example: GST vs HST Calculation
Let’s say you buy a laptop for $1,000.
If you are in Ontario (HST province)
Ontario HST = 13%
Tax Amount:
$1,000 × 13% = $130
Total:
$1,000 + $130 = $1,130
If you are in Alberta (GST-only province)
GST = 5%
Tax Amount:
$1,000 × 5% = $50
Total:
$1,000 + $50 = $1,050
If you are in British Columbia (GST + PST)
GST = 5%
PST = 7%
Total = 12%
Tax Amount:
$1,000 × 12% = $120
Total:
$1,000 + $120 = $1,120
Use-Case: When Canadians Need to Know GST or HST
Canadians check GST/HST for many reasons:
1. Online shopping
Amazon, Walmart, and Shopify stores charge tax based on your province.
2. Freelancers & small businesses
You must collect GST/HST if your revenue is above $30,000.
3. Real estate or home services
Service providers must charge the correct rate.
4. Travel & hospitality
Hotels, tours, and restaurants apply GST/HST depending on location.
5. Expense reimbursement for employers
Businesses need correct tax calculations for accounting.
Knowing your province’s rate helps you avoid errors.
How GST vs HST Affects You
1. Your total bill changes
Same product, different province → different total.
2. Your business registration changes
Some must register for HST, others GST + PST.
3. Payment to CRA changes
Businesses collect and remit based on location.
4. Moving provinces?
Your cost of living may change because of different sales taxes.
Tips to Save Money on GST/HST
Here are some simple, practical tips the average Canadian follows:
✔ Buy during promotions
Many stores offer tax-free days or discounts equal to the tax.
✔ Claim input tax credits (for businesses)
Recover GST/HST paid on expenses.
✔ Check exemptions
Some products are zero-rated or exempt:
- Basic groceries
- Prescription drugs
- Medical devices
✔ Compare provincial tax before big purchases
Buying a $5,000 item may cost $250–$750 extra depending on province.
✔ Keep receipts
Useful for tax filing or reimbursements.
Common GST vs HST Mistakes People Make
✓ Assuming all provinces have HST (wrong)
✓ Forgetting PST in BC, SK, MB
✓ Miscalculating tax on digital products
✓ Not updating accounting software after moving provinces
✓ New freelancers not registering after crossing $30,000
GST vs HST in Canada may seem complex, but it becomes very easy when you understand which provinces use which system. Whether you are shopping, doing business, or calculating expenses, knowing the tax rate helps you stay accurate and avoid mistakes.
Using a quick HST calculator Canada can save time and give exact numbers for your province. Understanding the gst hst vs gst breakdown by province Canada explained also helps you make smarter financial decisions.
FAQ
What is the main difference between GST and HST?
GST is a federal 5% tax; HST combines GST + provincial tax into one rate.
Why do some provinces have HST and others GST only?
Provinces choose based on their tax policy. HST is simplified; GST+PST keeps tax separate.
Which province has the highest HST?
Nova Scotia, PEI, New Brunswick, and Newfoundland & Labrador — all at 15%.
Do all products in Canada have GST or HST?
Most do, except essentials like basic groceries and prescription medicines.
Do businesses need to register for GST/HST?
Yes, if annual revenue is above $30,000.
How do I calculate GST/HST easily?
Use any HST calculator Canada — just enter your price and select your province.