Whether you can claim GST/HST on your side hustle depends on whether you're registered with the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) and your annual revenue. If you're registered for GST/HST, you can claim input tax credits on eligible business expenses, which reduces the net tax you owe. However, if your side hustle revenue stays below the registration threshold (currently $30,000 per year), you may not be required or able to register. Understanding these rules helps you minimize your tax burden and stay compliant with CRA requirements for 2026. The CRA requires you to register for GST/HST if your total revenue from a commercial activity reaches or exceeds $30,000 in any four consecutive calendar quarters (12 months). Once you hit this threshold, you must register. However, registration is not always mandatory. This CRA rule may apply to you: You earn less than $30,000 annually from your side hustle You can still choose to register voluntarily, even if you're below the threshold Voluntary registration is often worthwhile if you pay significant GST/HST on business supplies Before making the decision, use the GST/HST Calculator to estimate your potential tax obligations and input tax credits.
You must register for GST/HST if your total revenue reaches $30,000 or more in any four consecutive calendar quarters (12 months). If you stay below this threshold, registration is optional but you can still choose to register voluntarily.
No. Only GST/HST-registered businesses can claim input tax credits (ITCs) on eligible business expenses. If you're not registered, you bear the full cost of GST/HST on your supplies.
It depends on your expenses. If you pay significant GST/HST on supplies, equipment, or services, voluntary registration may save you money through input tax credits. If you have minimal expenses, it's usually not worth the administrative burden.
Most new side hustles file GST/HST returns quarterly, though some may qualify for annual filing. The CRA determines your filing frequency based on your registration and expected remittances. You'll receive details when you register.
Yes, if you're registered, you must charge GST/HST on taxable supplies sold to customers. You then remit the net amount (GST/HST collected minus input tax credits) to the CRA on your filing deadline.