Sales tax in Canada is complex because of the mix of federal and provincial rules. For CFOs, controllers, and finance leaders, knowing the current rates across provinces is essential to manage compliance, pricing, and cash flow planning.This guide provides a clear Canada sales tax chart with 2025 GST, PST, and HST rates by province, plus insights to help businesses operating across multiple jurisdictions. Learn more about the team at Dua LLP, where finance leaders rely on tailored tax expertise to stay compliant and make informed decisions.
Understanding the Basics: GST, PST, and HST
Canada’s sales tax system includes three primary components:
- GST (Goods and Services Tax): A federal tax set at 5% nationwide.
- PST (Provincial Sales Tax): Charged separately in provinces such as British Columbia, Manitoba, and Saskatchewan.
HST (Harmonized Sales Tax): A combined GST and PST rate adopted by provinces like Ontario, New Brunswick, and Nova Scotia.
Knowing which tax applies helps ensure accurate collection, remittance, and reporting. Businesses often rely on professional Tax Services to manage these obligations effectively.
Canada Sales Tax Chart: Rates by Province and Territory (2025)
| Province / Territory | Type of Tax | GST Rate | PST/QST Rate | HST Rate | Total Rate | Notes |
| Alberta | GST only | 5% | 0% | 0% | 5% | No PST |
| British Columbia | GST + PST | 5% | 7% | 0% | 12% | – |
| Manitoba | GST + PST | 5% | 7% | 0% | 12% | – |
| New Brunswick | HST | 0% | 0% | 15% | 15% | – |
| Newfoundland & Labrador | HST | 0% | 0% | 15% | 15% | – |
| Northwest Territories | GST only | 5% | 0% | 0% | 5% | No PST |
| Nova Scotia | HST | 0% | 0% | 14% | 14% | Reduced from 15% (April 2025) |
| Nunavut | GST only | 5% | 0% | 0% | 5% | No PST |
| Ontario | HST | 0% | 0% | 13% | 13% | – |
| Prince Edward Island | HST | 0% | 0% | 15% | 15% | – |
| Quebec | GST + QST | 5% | 9.975% | 0% | 14.975% | QST is provincial |
| Saskatchewan | GST + PST | 5% | 6% | 0% | 11% | – |
| Yukon | GST only | 5% | 0% | 0% | 5% | No PST |
Tip: Always confirm updates with the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA).
Why CFOs and Controllers Need This Sales Tax Chart
Tracking provincial differences matters for:
- Accurate remittance to avoid penalties or audits.
- Cash flow forecasting by factoring in tax liabilities.
- Pricing strategies that reflect the true tax burden.
- Multi-province compliance for businesses selling nationwide.
Companies working across borders often lean on Business Advisory Services for strategic financial planning.
GST Rates by Province: What It Means for Operations
While GST is 5% federally, total sales tax rates differ significantly due to provincial variations:
- 5% only: Alberta, Northwest Territories, Nunavut, Yukon.
- Combined HST (13–15%): Ontario and Atlantic provinces.
- Highest total rate: Quebec (14.975%) due to QST.
These variations impact invoicing, ERP systems, and financial planning. Modern software such as QBO can help automate these calculations.
Understanding Provincial Sales Tax (PST) Differences
Provinces with standalone PST (British Columbia, Manitoba, Saskatchewan) each apply unique rules about what’s taxable or exempt. Staying compliant often requires ongoing monitoring and dedicated Compliance Services.
Harmonized Sales Tax (HST): Where It Applies
HST simplifies compliance but rates vary:
- Ontario – 13%
- Nova Scotia – 14% (reduced April 2025)
- New Brunswick, Newfoundland & Labrador, PEI – 15%
For businesses expanding into multiple regions, having access to Fractional CFO Services ensures tax planning aligns with wider cash flow strategies.
Managing Multi-Province Sales Tax Compliance
Businesses selling across provinces should:
- Register in each applicable jurisdiction.
- Charge the correct tax based on customer location.
- File returns on time for each province.
- Update systems regularly to reflect changes.
Independent review through Audit Services and Assurance Services helps confirm your reporting is accurate.
Practical Tips for Using the Canada Sales Tax Chart
- Build these rates into your ERP or accounting platform.
- Monitor rate changes (especially scheduled reductions like Nova Scotia’s).
- Train billing and finance teams on province-specific rules.
- Plan for cash flow to cover tax remittances.
For ongoing support, many businesses use Accounting Services that scale with their operations.
How DUA LLP can help you
Keeping up with Canada’s sales tax rates is essential for CFOs and controllers managing compliance and planning across provinces. Having the right chart and processes in place helps avoid costly mistakes and supports smarter financial decisions.
If you want tailored support with compliance, pricing strategies, or cash flow planning, Book A Call with Dua LLP today and see how our team can help simplify your tax obligations.
FAQs
What is the federal GST rate in Canada?
The GST rate is 5% nationwide.
Which provinces charge only GST?
Alberta, Northwest Territories, Nunavut, and Yukon.
Where is HST used?
Ontario and Atlantic provinces (New Brunswick, Newfoundland & Labrador, Nova Scotia, PEI).
Which province has the highest total rate?
Quebec, at 14.975% (GST + QST).
Where can I check official tax rate updates?
The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) publishes current rates and compliance rules.
Is there a resource I can use to better prepare my business for funding and tax obligations?
Yes. 📘 Download our free guide: 5 Ways to Improve Your Chances of Getting Business Funding (and Avoid Tax Surprises). It offers practical steps to strengthen your funding applications while keeping taxes under control.
What if my business is already facing funding challenges or tax pressures?
If you’re Struggling to Get Funding or Facing Tax Pressures? Let’s Build a Better Plan. Our team can help you find solutions tailored to your situation.
How do tax deadlines tie into sales tax compliance?
Tax deadlines go hand in hand with sales tax reporting. Late or inaccurate filings can affect compliance, increase penalties, and strain working capital. For practical advice on timing and planning, read our blog on Tax Deadline for Canada: How Growing Businesses Can Maximize Cash Flow.
Why would a growing Mississauga business need more than basic bookkeeping?
Sales tax reporting is just one piece of your finance function. As your operations expand, you’ll need wider support with compliance, assurance, and forecasting. Find out how the right accountant adds value in our blog on Small Business Accountant Mississauga: Supporting Growth Beyond Bookkeeping.
