If you have a completed GST-HST worksheet you can easily file your GST-HST return, either by using the figures on the Worksheet and transfering them to a return, or by signing and dating the worksheet itself and mailing it to the Canada Revenue Agency.
(If you’re not sure what a GST-HST worksheet looks like, you can download a PDF of one here.)
Filing GST-HST Via MyBusinessAccount
If you have registered your business with the Canada Revenue Agency’s My Business Account, you can log in to your account online and file a return online. Be click on your GST/HST account, click File a Return, and enter the data from your worksheet to the return online.
Filing GST-HST Via NetFile
Even without a My Business Account you can filing via GST Netfile so long as you have your 4-digit Web Access Code (WAC). You should have received your Access Code in an earlier mailing from the Canada Revenue Agency.
If you don’t have your Access Code you can obtain one by calling CRA Business Information Line and confirming your identity.
Filing GST-HST Through Your Bank
Some banks will allow you to file your GST-HST returns in-branch and/or online. Contact your bank to find out how they handle it.
Be aware, however, that there is a difference between filing a return (i.e., informing CRA of your GST-HST figures and calculations) and paying your GST-HST owing – they can be done separately and often are. Make sure you actually file your return!
Filing GST-HST By Mail With Just the Worksheet (Without A Return)
The least complicated way to file your GST-HST return from a complete worksheet is to just sign and date the worksheet itself and mail it in. Technically a Worksheet is different from a return; but it contains all the same data, and once validated with your signature and the date it becomes a legally acceptable substitute. However, be aware that CRA is discouraging paper filing of any kind, and have been known to charge a $100 penalty for paper-filing.
If you decide to do it anyway, you can mail your signed, dated GST/HST worksheet to your local Tax Office. For businesses located in Toronto, mail the return to: Sudbury Tax Services Centre, 1050 Notre Dame Avenue, Sudbury ON P3A 5C1. Not in Toronto? Find your local tax office from this list.
If you have misplaced or never received the tear-off return, don’t worry. You can order a new personalized return from the Canada Revenue Agency, or alternatively there are several other options for filing your GST-HST information with the Canada Revenue Agency.
Need help calculating or filing your GST/HST?
Hi I’m planning start up small online business which is dropshipping and I already registered my Trade name, I don`t know if the $30,000 mark income will reach, But I already purchase some supplies to use in my online business. My question is can I monitor first the income before I registering Gst/hst? I`m new to this.
Thank you.
Hi Norie. Congratulations on your new business! Yes, you can monitor your income first, and register to collect GST/HST once you reach $30,000 in a 12-month period. Be aware, however, that you can’t claim back GST/HST spent on business expenses if they were purchased before you registered. Consider downloading our free guide to the GST/HST (link is at the bottom of the article) if you haven’t already — it’s a handy reference to refresh your understanding of the system as your business gets underway.