Services
HST Refund & Rebate Services
Navigating the Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) rules can be challenging, but HTPA Accounting is here to help you reclaim the HST you’re entitled to. Our HST Refund & Rebate Services assist individuals and businesses in applying for HST rebates in Ontario and across Canada.
Introduction to HST Refund & Rebate Services
Navigating the Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) rules can be challenging, but HTPA Accounting is here to help you reclaim the HST you’re entitled to. Our HST Refund & Rebate Services assist individuals and businesses in applying for HST rebates in Ontario and across Canada. Whether you’ve purchased a new home, made significant home renovations, or have other eligible expenses, we ensure your rebate application is filed correctly and efficiently. By leveraging our expertise, you can optimize your cash flow and not leave money on the table when it comes to sales tax recovery.
Applicable Clients
New Home Buyers and Builders
Individuals who purchased a newly constructed home or condo, or built a house, who may qualify for the New Housing Rebate on HST. Also, landlords who bought a new residential rental property and can claim a similar rebate.
Home Renovators
Homeowners who substantially renovated their residence (or built a major addition) – you could be eligible for an HST rebate on the renovation costs under certain conditions.
Businesses with Large Purchases
Companies that made significant capital purchases or paid HST in special situations (e.g., charities or qualifying not-for-profit corporations eligible for rebates, or HST paid in error on tax-exempt items) and need to file for a refund.
Service Details
New Housing HST Rebate (Owner-Occupied)
Assistance for individuals who bought a new home from a builder or built their own home. We determine your eligibility (home must be your primary residence, purchase price thresholds, etc.), calculate the federal and Ontario rebate amounts, and prepare the rebate forms (GST191 and related schedules) for you.
New Residential Rental Property Rebate
If you purchased a new home or condo as an investment property and leased it out, you may qualify for this rebate. We help gather the necessary proof of rental (such as lease agreements) and complete the required forms to recover a portion of the HST from the purchase.
Substantial Renovation Rebate
For those who have renovated their homes to the point that 90%+ of the interior was redone or a major addition was added, we assist in documenting the renovation costs and filing the rebate claim. We ensure you meet the Canada Revenue Agency’s definition of “substantial renovation” to be eligible.
HST Paid in Error or Special Rebates
Preparation of General Application for rebate of GST/HST (Form GST189) for scenarios like HST paid in error (e.g., you were charged HST on an exempt item) or other specific rebate programs (for public service bodies like charities, qualifying not-for-profit corporations, or school authorities that get a portion of their HST refunded).
Claim Submission & Follow-Up
We file the rebate claim on your behalf and handle any correspondence or additional information requests from the CRA. With our experience, we know what documentation is required (invoices, statements of adjustments from home purchases, etc.) to substantiate your claim and we include that upfront to expedite processing.
Why Choose HTPA?
HST Expertise
Sales tax rules can be nuanced. We have a detailed understanding of HST rebate conditions and formulas – for example, how the rebate is calculated differently for homes above certain price points or for rental versus owner-occupied properties. This expertise means we won’t miss out on any portion of the rebate you can claim.
Smooth Process
We simplify what can be a paperwork-heavy exercise. From compiling your invoices to filling out government forms, we handle the heavy lifting. Clients often come to us after attempting the forms themselves and finding them confusing – we take that stress away.
Accuracy and Compliance
An incorrectly filed rebate can be denied or delayed. We make sure every section is completed accurately, and all required proof is attached. Our thorough approach helps avoid CRA rejections or audits of the rebate claim.
Combined Advisory
Often, HST rebate opportunities arise from larger financial decisions (like buying a property or undertaking a renovation). We integrate our rebate services with tax planning advice – for instance, discussing the income tax implications of a rental property purchase while we work on your HST rental rebate, giving you well-rounded financial guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions
The HST on new homes in Ontario is 13%. The rebate has two components: a federal portion and a provincial portion. Generally, for homes up to $350,000, you can get a federal rebate of 36% of the 5% federal GST portion (max $6,300) and a provincial rebate of 75% of the 8% provincial portion (max $24,000). The federal rebate phases out for homes between $350,000 and $450,000 (no federal rebate above $450,000), while Ontario’s rebate is maxed at $24,000 and available regardless of price (for homes intended as primary residence). We will calculate the exact amount for your situation. For rental property rebates, the rules differ slightly – we’ll guide you through those specifics.
You will need the Agreement of Purchase and Sale, the Statement of Adjustments from the builder (showing HST paid), and a copy of the lease or rental agreement to prove the unit is rented long-term (generally at least one year). The application for the New Residential Rental Property Rebate should be filed within two years of the closing date. We’ll prepare the necessary forms and ensure you include all required documents so that your rebate claim is successful.
Get a Free Consultation
Have questions about our HST Refund & Rebate services? Contact us today for a no-obligation consultation.
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20 Bamburgh Circle, Scarborough, ON