GST Calculator

How to calculate GST

Adding GST: Tax = price × 5%. Total = price + tax.

Removing GST from a total: Price = total ÷ 1.05. Tax = total − price.

Worked example

A $200 purchase in Alberta (GST only, no PST): tax = $200 × 0.05 = $10.00. Total = $200 + $10.00 = $210.00. Working backwards from that $210.00 total: price = $210.00 ÷ 1.05 = $200.00, tax = $210.00 − $200.00 = $10.00.

What is GST?

The Goods and Services Tax (GST) is a 5% federal value-added tax charged on most goods and services sold in Canada, collected by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). It applies in every province and territory, either on its own — as in Alberta, the Northwest Territories, Nunavut and Yukon — or blended into a single HST rate in the five provinces that harmonize it with their own provincial tax.

What's exempt or zero-rated?

Basic groceries, most health and dental services, most educational services, and long-term residential rent are common GST/HST exemptions. Exports and some medical devices are zero-rated (taxed at 0%, but the seller can still claim input tax credits). This calculator assumes a fully taxable purchase — always check the CRA's exemption list for anything unusual.

Do you need to register for a GST/HST account?

Most businesses and self-employed people in Canada must register for a GST/HST account once their total worldwide taxable revenue (including any associated businesses) goes over $30,000 across four consecutive calendar quarters, or within a single calendar quarter. Below that threshold you're a "small supplier" and registration is optional — though some businesses register anyway to claim input tax credits on expenses. Once registered, you must charge GST/HST on your taxable sales at the rate that applies where the customer takes possession of the goods or service, file returns on your assigned schedule, and remit what you collect (minus input tax credits) to the CRA.

Frequently asked questions

What is the GST rate in Canada?

5% federally, charged everywhere. Five provinces fold it into a single HST rate instead of billing it separately — see the HST calculator.

Which provinces charge GST only, with no provincial sales tax?

Alberta, Yukon, the Northwest Territories and Nunavut — you'll only ever pay the 5% GST there.

Do I charge GST or HST to an out-of-province customer?

Generally you charge the rate that applies where the customer takes possession of the goods or service, not where your business is located.

Is GST the same everywhere in Canada?

The rate (5%) is the same everywhere, but whether it's charged on its own or blended into HST depends on the province — see the rate table for all 13.

What's zero-rated versus exempt?

Zero-rated items (like most exports) are taxed at 0% but still let the seller claim input tax credits. Exempt items (like most health care) aren't taxed at all, and no credits apply.

Can I claim back GST I paid on business expenses?

If you're registered for GST/HST, yes — through input tax credits, claimed when you file your return.

More calculators

GST-only provinces and territories: Alberta, Northwest Territories, Nunavut, Yukon.