If you run a business in Canada, keeping up with GST payment dates is essential. The Goods and Services Tax (GST) is a federal tax that applies to most goods and services sold in Canada. Depending on how your business is structured, missing a deadline can lead to penalties, interest charges, and extra stress.
In this article, we'll explain what GST is, how GST payment dates work, how to stay compliant, and tips to avoid common mistakes.
The Goods and Services Tax (GST) is a 5% tax that applies to most products and services in Canada. In some provinces, GST is combined with the Provincial Sales Tax (PST) to form the Harmonized Sales Tax (HST). Businesses that earn more than $30,000 in revenue annually (before expenses) are usually required to register for a GST/HST number and charge the tax on their sales.
Once you're registered, you're expected to collect GST from customers and send that money to the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) by specific deadlines.
The frequency of your GST payments depends on your reporting period, which is assigned when you register your GST/HST number. The CRA determines this based on your annual revenue, but in some cases, you can choose a different schedule.
Annual
Quarterly
Monthly
Each reporting period comes with its own set of GST payment due dates.
Who it's for: Small businesses with revenue under $1.5 million (before expenses) can be assigned annual filing.
When it's due:
If your fiscal year ends on December 31, your GST return is due by June 15 of the following year.
GST payment is due by April 30.
✅ Tip: Even though your return is due by June 15, you must pay any amount you owe by April 30 to avoid interest.
Who it's for: Businesses with revenue between $1.5 million and $6 million.
When it's due:
Your GST return and payment are due one month after the end of each quarter.
Who it's for: Businesses with revenue over $6 million or those that choose to report monthly.
When it's due:
Returns and payments are due one month after the end of each month.
For example:
For GST collected in March, the return and payment are due by April 30.
There are several ways to pay your GST to the CRA:
Online through CRA My Business Account
Using your financial institution’s online banking
Through pre-authorized debit (PAD)
By mailing a cheque or money order with your remittance voucher
Always keep proof of payment and confirmation numbers for your records.
Missing your GST payment deadline can lead to:
Interest charges on the amount owed
Late filing penalties
Potential reviews or audits by the CRA
Interest compounds daily, so even a short delay can be costly. If you realize you’ve missed a deadline, it’s best to file and pay as soon as possible to minimize penalties.
Set Calendar Reminders
Mark your due dates in advance and set alerts to avoid last-minute surprises.
Use Accounting Software
Tools like QuickBooks, Wave, or Xero can track GST, generate returns, and remind you of deadlines.
File Even If You Don’t Owe
Even if you don’t owe any GST, you must still file your return on time.
Consider Monthly Filing if Cash Flow is Strong
Monthly payments can spread out the burden, avoiding large quarterly or annual bills.
Hire a Bookkeeper or Accountant
They can manage your filings and ensure deadlines are never missed.
Paying GST on time isn’t just about following the rules—it’s about protecting your business from unnecessary fees and stress. Understanding GST payment dates and your reporting schedule helps keep your financial records clean and your business in good standing with the CRA.
Whether you're just starting out or managing a growing business, stay organized, plan ahead, and always know when your next GST deadline is coming.