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Indirect tax law in Saskatoon usually involves two separate systems: the federal goods and services tax (GST) and Saskatchewan's provincial sales tax (PST). GST is generally charged at 5%, while Saskatchewan PST is generally charged at 6% on taxable goods, services, and other transactions.
Businesses must determine whether they need to register, which tax applies, where a supply is made, and whether an exemption or input tax credit is available. Saskatoon businesses may also face issues involving online sales, interprovincial transactions, commercial leases, construction, real property, and imported goods.
A lawyer can review contracts, invoices, accounting practices, tax assessments, voluntary disclosures, and audit correspondence. Advice is particularly useful where GST and PST treatment differs or where a transaction affects several provinces.
Part IX of the federal Excise Tax Act contains the main GST and harmonized sales tax rules. It governs registration, taxable supplies, input tax credits, collection, assessments, objections, and penalties. The GST replaced the federal manufacturers' sales tax on January 1, 1991.
The Saskatchewan Provincial Sales Tax Act establishes Saskatchewan's PST system, including taxable transactions, exemptions, registration, collection, audits, assessments, and enforcement. Saskatchewan's general PST rate increased from 5% to 6% on March 23, 2017, although special rules and rate changes should always be checked for the relevant transaction date.
The Saskatchewan Provincial Sales Tax Regulations provide detailed rules and classifications under the Act. They can affect exemptions, taxable services, documentation, contractors, and particular classes of goods or transactions.
Canada does not use a tax commonly called VAT in the same way many countries do. Saskatoon transactions are usually analyzed under the federal GST system and Saskatchewan's separate PST system.
A business generally must register when it exceeds the CRA's small-supplier threshold, commonly $30,000 in taxable revenues over the applicable measurement period. Voluntary registration may be available earlier, but it creates filing and collection responsibilities.
No. The obligation depends on the business's activities, the goods or services supplied, and applicable Saskatchewan rules. A business may need a provincial PST account even when a particular sale is exempt.
GST is a federal value-added tax administered by the Canada Revenue Agency. PST is a Saskatchewan provincial tax with separate registration, collection, exemption, reporting, and audit rules.
A GST registrant may generally claim eligible input tax credits for GST paid or payable on business inputs. The claim requires proper records and may be restricted for personal use, exempt activities, capital property, or other circumstances.
PST generally does not operate like GST input tax credits. Some exemptions, resale rules, refunds, or specific industry provisions may apply, but the analysis depends on the purchase and the purchaser's use.
Fees vary according to the lawyer's experience, the transaction's complexity, and whether the matter involves an audit, objection, litigation, or business sale. Lawyers may charge hourly rates, a fixed fee for a defined review, or another agreed structure.
Timing depends on the authority, the records requested, the number of issues, and whether the matter proceeds to an objection or appeal. A lawyer can identify applicable deadlines and create a response schedule, but cannot guarantee a particular resolution date.
Yes, federal and Saskatchewan assessments generally have formal review or objection processes. Deadlines differ, so the assessment date and any extension rules should be checked immediately.
A lawyer can assess whether an undisclosed liability may qualify for a federal or provincial disclosure program and prepare supporting information. Disclosure before an audit contact may be important, and eligibility is not automatic.
Not necessarily. Many businesses can register directly through government services or use an accountant, but legal advice can help when the business has unusual supplies, multiple locations, non-resident owners, or a planned restructuring.
An accountant may be best for bookkeeping, return preparation, reconciliations, and routine compliance. A tax lawyer is useful for legal interpretation, audits, privilege, contracts, voluntary disclosures, assessments, objections, and disputes.
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Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation.
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