On July 1, 2010, businesses in Ontario and BC switch over to the new HST sales tax. This faq helps to answer some of the important questions you may have with respect to this new harmonized sales tax. 

Watch these videos created by CRA for more information on the HST changes.

• Make sure you understand what taxes you need to charge and when. Some things that you did not charge PST on may now have to have the HST charged. To better understand when to charge HST or just GST, read this article from the CRA's website: Harmonized Sales Tax: Place of supply rules for determining whether a supply is made in a province.
• When should I start charging HST? Make sure you understand when you need to begin charging HST. The CRA has implemented transitional rules for transactions that straddle the July 1 implementation date.
  
• What are the key dates for the transition to HST?
• Even if you don't live in BC or Ontario, you may still be impacted by these changes. Read this faq for more information.
• When do I have to remit my final PST payment?

You need to update the sales tax information in QuickBooks so you are ready to begin charging the new HST. How long will it take to set up my file for the HST changes?

Choose the appropriate steps for the version of QuickBooks that you are currently using. 

Here are some links to more information on the HST changes for Ontario and BC.

• Videos: Harmonized Sales Tax media
• Intuit: HST Demystified
• Intuit: How to prepare for the HST changes
• CRA: HST main page
• CRA: Transitional rules
• List of information sessions CRA is hosting
• Ontario government: Are you HST ready?
• BC Government
• CGA booklet: HST in BC
• CFIB: What would HST mean to your business?
• CFIB: Are you HST ready? Checklist for Ontario