GST/HST Basics: Registration and General Obligations

Canadian Tax Essentials: Personal & Corporate · 4:29

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Lyrics

[Verse 1]
When your revenue hits thirty thousand in a year
Or four quarters rolling, registration's near
Small suppliers get a choice to join the game
But once you're in, you'll never be the same
Commercial activity requires your attention
Taxable supplies need GST mention

[Chorus]
Register, collect, and file on time
HST or GST, keep it in line
Input tax credits, output tax due
Quarterly returns, here's what you do
R-E-G-I-S-T-E-R when you hit the floor
Thirty thousand opens up the door

[Verse 2]
Zero-rated sales still count toward your threshold
Books and groceries, exports you've sold
Exempt supplies like insurance don't apply
But watch your mixed-use, don't let it slide by
Registration gives you credits to claim
Input taxes back, it's part of the game

[Chorus]
Register, collect, and file on time
HST or GST, keep it in line
Input tax credits, output tax due
Quarterly returns, here's what you do
R-E-G-I-S-T-E-R when you hit the floor
Thirty thousand opens up the door

[Bridge]
Monthly filing if your sales are high
One point five million is where you qualify
Keep your records for six years straight
Books and receipts, don't leave it to fate
Charge the tax when you make the sale
Invoice requirements, don't let them fail

[Verse 3]
GST number on every receipt
Business name and date, keep it complete
Remit the difference between what you owe
And credits claimed from your cash flow
Late filing penalties will make you pay
Stay compliant every business day

[Chorus]
Register, collect, and file on time
HST or GST, keep it in line
Input tax credits, output tax due
Quarterly returns, here's what you do
R-E-G-I-S-T-E-R when you hit the floor
Thirty thousand opens up the door

[Outro]
From registration to your final return
GST compliance, these rules you must learn
Thirty thousand threshold, quarterly file
Keep your records and maintain your style

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