What's the difference between GST, HST, PST, and QST?

GST (Goods and Services Tax) is the 5% federal sales tax. HST (Harmonized Sales Tax) is GST + provincial sales tax merged into one rate, used in Ontario (13%), New Brunswick (15%), Nova Scotia (15%, dropped from 15% effective 2025), Newfoundland (15%), and PEI (15%). PST is the separate provincial sales tax in BC (7%), Saskatchewan (6%), and Manitoba (7%). QST is Quebec's version of PST (9.975%), administered by Revenu Québec.

Are PST and QST applied on top of GST or separately?

GST is calculated on the pre-tax price. In QST provinces (Quebec) and PST provinces (BC, SK, MB) both taxes are applied separately on the pre-tax base — they are NOT compounded. The calculator handles this correctly.

Why don't Alberta or the territories show provincial sales tax?

Alberta, Yukon, NWT, and Nunavut have no provincial sales tax — only the 5% federal GST applies. This is one of Alberta's well-known cost-of-living advantages.

How do I back out tax from a total?

Use Reverse mode. Pre-tax = Total ÷ (1 + combined rate). For Ontario HST 13%: $113 total ÷ 1.13 = $100 pre-tax. Useful for expense reports or HST input tax credits (ITCs).

Are there any product-type exemptions?

Yes — basic groceries, prescription drugs, and most healthcare services are zero-rated under GST/HST. Each province has its own PST exemptions (e.g., children's clothing, books). The calculator computes the standard rate; consult provincial finance ministry for exemption rules.

Canadian Sales Tax Calculator (GST / HST / PST)

Finance· 37 tools

Free Canadian sales tax calculator. Add federal GST (5%), HST (5+5–10% in HST provinces), PST or QST (Quebec), to any price — or back out the tax-inclusive total to find the pre-tax amount. Covers all 10 provinces and 3 territories with current 2025 rates.

Pre-tax amount (CAD)

Province or territory

2025 rates · Combined: 13%

Total with tax

$113.00

Pre-tax$100.00

HST (13%)$13.00

Total$113.00

Disclaimer: For informational purposes only. This is not financial, tax, or legal advice — consult a licensed professional before making decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

References

GST/HST rates — Canada Revenue Agency

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Frequently Asked Questions

References and sources

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