GST – How to complete and file a GST return

You can file a GST/HST return electronically, by TELEFILE, or on paper. Before you choose a method, you must determine if you are required to file online and which online method you can use.

For instructions about how to complete each line of your return, see Instructions for completing a GST/HST return.

GST/HST NETFILE is an online filing service that allows registrants to file their GST/HST returns and eligible rebates directly to the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) over the internet.

My Business Account

My Business Account is a secure online portal that allows you to interact electronically with the CRA on various business accounts. Business accounts include GST/HST (except for GST/HST accounts administered by Revenu Québec), payroll, corporation income taxes, excise taxes, excise duties, and more.

Represent a client

Represent a Client is a service that provides you with secure and controlled online access to tax information on behalf of individuals and businesses, including your employer.

Electronic Data Interchange (EDI)

EDI lets you pay the net tax you owe electronically through a participating Canadian financial institution.

GST/HST TELEFILE

GST/HST TELEFILE is a fast, free, and easy-to-use filing option that allows qualifying registrants to file their GST/HST returns in a matter of minutes, using their touch-tone telephone and a toll-free number.

GST/HST Internet File Transfer

GST/HST Internet File Transfer is an internet-based filing service that allows eligible registrants to file their GST/HST returns directly to the CRA over the internet using their third-party accounting software.

Paper filing

If you are not required to file online, you may be eligible to file a paper return. To use this method, you can either mail your GST/HST return (GST34-2 or GST62) to the address on your return, or file in person at a participating financial institution.

You cannot file in person at a participating financial institution if:

  • you are claiming a refund
  • you are filing a nil return
  • you offset the amount owing on your return with a rebate or refund

Your personalized GST/HST return package

Each fiscal year, the CRA will mail you a personalized GST34-3 return package that includes:

  • an information sheet with your reporting periods and due dates
  • an access code for filing your returns electronically on GST/HST NETFILE or by phone using GST/HST TELEFILE
  • remittance vouchers to use if you make your payments at your financial institution

If you are filing electronically and make 2 consecutive electronic payments, the CRA will no longer send you an electronic filing package unless you request one.

If you file on paper, the CRA will send you the GST34-2 filing information package, which also includes personalized returns. You can use the access code provided in the package if you decided to start using GST/HST NETFILE or GST/HST TELEFILE.

If you need a new return package or access code, do one of the following:

  • to request a new GST34-2 or GST34-3, call the Business Enquiries phone line at 1-800-959-5525
  • to get a new access code for GST/HST NETFILE or GST/HST TELEFILE, go to GST/HST Access Code Online
  • to get a non-personalized version of the paper return (Form GST62), use the Order forms and publications

You can also register for My Business Account to view the due dates for your returns, make electronic payments or file your GST/HST returns without an access code.

View a previously filed GST/HST return

You may view the status and the details of a previously filed GST/HST return using My Business Account. You will also be able to view upcoming and overdue GST/HST returns by using the same online service.

GST/HST outreach seminars for non-profit organizations, charities, and similar organizations

GST/HST outreach seminars are informal presentations designed to help non-profit organizations, charities and similar organizations understand their GST/HST obligations and claim all eligible amounts to which they are entitled.

For more information and to register, see GST/HST Outreach Seminars for Non-Profit Organizations, Charities and Similar organizations.

Other GST/HST returns

Depending on your situation, you may have to file a different return. For more information, see: