HST Return Collected By Unregistered Vendor

by CHal
(Burlington, Canada)

HST Return for 2010 Tax Year.

Hi Bookkeeping-Essentials,

My small business income is less than $30,000.

I collected GST/HST and paid GST/HST during the year. I am not a GST/HST registrant.

Do I need to complete a GST/HST return to CRA? If yes, how?

Thanks.






Yikes!

What you have done is a big NO-NO. Only GST/HST registrants are authorized to collect the sales tax and claim input tax credits.

I believe what you need to do now is write a letter to CRA explaining what you have done. Attach a cheque for the amount collected.

You could include the amount of your input tax credits .... but I wouldn't hold my breathe as ITCs can only be claimed from the day you register (with some exceptions).

I have no idea if the CRA will assess any kind of penalty or fine. For a first time occurrence and the fact you disclosed what you have done, there may be no penalties.

You might also want to consider consulting with an accountant or lawyer prior to contacting CRA ... or calling CRA to speak with them before sending your letter. It all depends on your comfort level.







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