Do I need to register for GST/HST?

Many people register after it's already too late.

Is this you?

  • My revenue grew gradually
  • I never crossed $30,000 in a single year
  • I didn't track GST/HST closely

"I'll register once I clearly pass $30,000."

The $30,000 limit is a rolling 4-quarter calculation - not a calendar year. If you crossed it in November, you were required to register immediately. The CRA can bill you for GST/HST you should have charged, even if you can't collect it from customers now.

Why guessing is risky

  • CRA retroactively assesses uncollected GST/HST
  • You may owe tax out of pocket
  • Interest applies from the original due date

Safe to ignore if

  • Revenue stayed well below $30,000 across all 4 quarters
  • Registration occurred on time

Stop and check if

  • Revenue crossed $30,000 at any point
  • Growth was uneven or seasonal

Resolve the doubt

Check my GST/HST late-registration risk (2 minutes)

We'll tell you if this needs reporting and what to do next.

"Most people identify the exact month they were required to register."