---
title: What is GST/HST Registration Number?
description: Learn about GST/HST registration numbers, who needs to register, and how to register with the Canada Revenue Agency to ensure tax compliance for your business.
---

[Blog ](https://mesa.cpa/blog)

# [What is GST/HST Registration Number?](https://mesa.cpa/blog/what-is-gst/hst-registration-number)

 Written by [David Oliveros](https://mesa.cpa/blog/author/david-oliveros) | Nov 12, 2025 12:44:08 PM

A **GST/HST registration number** is a unique identifier issued by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) that allows a business to collect, remit, and report Goods and Services Tax (GST) or Harmonized Sales Tax (HST).

 

It forms part of your **15-character Business Number (BN)** and is required for most **small businesses** operating in Canada that sell taxable goods or services.

## Structure of a GST/HST Number

A standard GST/HST registration number looks like this:

**123456789 RT0001**

- **123456789:** the **Business Number (BN)**
- **RT:** identifies the **GST/HST account number**
- **0001:** the reference number for that specific account

This structure helps the CRA connect your GST/HST account to other related tax accounts such as payroll, corporate income tax, or import/export.

## Who Needs To Register

You must register for a **GST number** if your business earns more than [$30,000](https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/tax/businesses/topics/gst-hst-businesses/when-register-charge.html) in total taxable revenue over four consecutive calendar quarters.

 

You are required to register if you:

- Sell taxable goods or services in Canada
- Earn more than $30,000 in annual revenue in any 12-month period
- Operate as a freelancer, contractor, or self-employed professional serving Canadian clients
- Import or sell goods and services online to Canadian customers

 

Businesses below the $30,000 threshold are considered small suppliers, and registration is optional. However, voluntary registration allows business owners to claim **Input Tax Credits (ITCs)** on eligible business expenses, which can improve cash flow and reduce net taxes payable.

 

Some supplies, such as most financial and health services, remain **GST/HST-exempt** regardless of registration status.

## GST vs. HST vs. PST

Sales tax in Canada varies by province:

- **Ontario** – HST (13%)
- **Nova Scotia**, **New Brunswick**, **Newfoundland and Labrador**, **Prince Edward Island** – HST (15%)
- **Alberta** – GST only (5%)
- **British Columbia**, **Saskatchewan**, **Manitoba** – separate **Provincial Sales Tax (PST)** plus 5% GST
- **Quebec** – **Quebec Sales Tax (QST)** administered by **Revenu Québec**

 

Understanding your province’s rules is critical before registering for a GST/HST account, as filing and remittance processes differ depending on where you do business.

## How To Register for a GST/HST Number

There are three ways to register with the CRA: *online*, by *phone*, or by *mail*.

### 1. Register Online

The fastest and most common method is through the **CRA’s Business Registration Online (BRO)** portal.

**Steps:**

1. Visit the [CRA Business Registration Online](https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/tax/businesses/topics/business-registration/business-number-program-account/how-register/resident.html#h-1) page.
2. Sign in using your **My Business Account**, or create one.
3. Enter your **Business Number (BN)** or apply for one if you don’t have it.
4. Select the option to register for a GST/HST account.
5. Provide your business start date, type of business, and estimated annual revenue.
6. Review and confirm the information before submitting.

Your **GST/HST registration number** is issued immediately online and will also be mailed to you for your records.

### 2. Register by Phone

Call the CRA’s **Business Enquiries line** at **1-800-959-5525** to register by phone.

Be ready to provide your legal business name, structure (sole proprietorship, partnership, or corporation), start date, and expected sales.

### 3. Register by Mail or Fax

If you prefer paper registration, complete **Form RC1 – Request for a Business Number (BN)** and send it to your regional tax office by mail or fax.

Processing typically takes **two to four weeks**.

## After Registration

Once you receive your GST/HST number, you must:

- **Charge GST or HST** on taxable sales based on your province’s rate
- **File GST/HST returns** monthly, quarterly, or annually depending on your revenue
- **Remit collected tax** to the CRA by the assigned deadline
- **Display your GST/HST number** on all invoices and receipts
- Maintain accurate records of **business expenses** and **sales** for at least six years

Failing to remit collected taxes or missing filing deadlines can result in penalties and interest from the CRA.

Setting up proper tracking in **QuickBooks Online**, **Xero**, or other accounting software ensures that every **General Sales Tax** transaction is recorded correctly.

## Verifying a GST/HST Number

You can confirm if a business is properly registered using the **GST/HST Registry** available on the CRA’s website.

This online tool lets you verify whether a business’s GST/HST number is valid and active — a useful step before entering contracts or claiming ITCs.

## Key Takeaways

- A **GST/HST registration number** is required for most Canadian businesses once annual revenue exceeds **$30,000**.
- Registration can be completed online, by phone, or by mail through the CRA.
- Once registered, you must collect, remit, and report GST/HST on taxable sales.
- Knowing your province’s rules (GST, HST, PST, or QST) helps ensure** full tax compliance.**
- Use the **CRA’s GST/HST Registry** to confirm registration details for your business or vendors.

[View full post](https://mesa.cpa/blog/what-is-gst/hst-registration-number)

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