Canadian sales tax in brief
GST is 5% federal. HST combines GST and provincial tax in participating provinces: 13% in Ontario and 15% in New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island. Alberta and the territories charge GST only. BC, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and Quebec add their own provincial tax on top of GST.
To add tax: total = price × (1 + rate). To remove tax: pre-tax = total ÷ (1 + rate). Rates change. Confirm on the CRA or provincial finance site before you file or invoice.
Common questions
Is food taxable?
Basic groceries are often zero-rated for GST/HST. Restaurant meals usually are taxable. This tool does not classify items.
How do I handle Quebec?
Type 14.975 as the rate for typical GST + QST on a taxable sale, or calculate each tax separately if you invoice that way.