HST/GST Filing Deadlines in Ontario (2025)
If you operate a business in Ontario and are registered for HST/GST, you must file returns with the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) on a regular schedule. Missing these deadlines results in penalties and interest.
This guide covers everything Ontario business owners need to know about HST filing deadlines in 2025.
Who needs to file HST/GST returns?
You must register for HST/GST if your total worldwide taxable revenues (including those of any associated businesses) exceed $30,000 in any single calendar quarter or over four consecutive calendar quarters.
You can also register voluntarily before reaching this threshold.
HST Filing Frequencies
CRA assigns your filing frequency based on your annual taxable revenues:
| Annual Taxable Revenue | Filing Frequency | Due Date |
|---|---|---|
| Under $1.5 million | Annual | 3 months after fiscal year-end |
| $1.5M – $6 million | Quarterly | 1 month after each quarter-end |
| Over $6 million | Monthly | 1 month after each reporting period |
2025 HST Due Dates — Quarterly Filers
For businesses filing quarterly, returns and payments are due:
- ●Q4 2024 (Oct–Dec): February 28, 2025
- ●Q1 2025 (Jan–Mar): April 30, 2025
- ●Q2 2025 (Apr–Jun): July 31, 2025
- ●Q3 2025 (Jul–Sep): October 31, 2025
- ●Q4 2025 (Oct–Dec): February 28, 2026
CRA Late-Filing Penalties
If you file your HST return late, CRA will assess a penalty of:
- ●1% of the unpaid amount
- ●Plus 0.25% of the unpaid amount for each complete month the return is outstanding (maximum 12 months)
Example: If you owe $5,000 in HST and file 3 months late, your penalty would be $50 (1%) + $37.50 (0.25% × 3 months) = $87.50.
Interest on unpaid amounts also accrues from the due date at CRA's prescribed rate (currently ~7%).
Tips to Never Miss an HST Deadline
1. Set calendar reminders 2 weeks before each deadline 2. Automate with cloud software — QuickBooks and Xero can track HST automatically throughout the year 3. Work with a professional bookkeeper who files on your behalf before every deadline 4. Don't wait for the deadline — file early if you're ready
At Outsource Bookkeeping, we prepare and file your HST returns as part of our flat-rate monthly service. You'll never receive a CRA penalty for a late filing while working with us — guaranteed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Need professional bookkeeping?
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