How to Use GST/HST NETFILE to File Your GST/HST Returns Online in 2024 - 7 Steps

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Key Takeaway Box:

GST/HST NETFILE is an online service that allows you to file your GST/HST returns and eligible rebates directly to the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) over the Internet.
To use GST/HST NETFILE, you need to have an access code, a web access code, or a CRA user ID and password. You also need to have your GST/HST account number, your reporting period, and your return information ready.
You can use GST/HST NETFILE to file your regular GST/HST returns (GST34), your simplified GST/HST returns (GST34-2), and your annual GST/HST returns (GST62). You can also use it to file your GST/HST rebates, such as the new housing rebate, the new residential rental property rebate, and the public service bodies’ rebate.
GST/HST NETFILE is fast, easy, secure, and convenient. You can file your returns anytime and anywhere, get instant confirmation, and receive your refunds faster. You can also view your previously filed returns and track your payments online.
GST/HST NETFILE is mandatory for some GST/HST registrants, such as builders, large businesses, and those who report recaptured input tax credits. If you are required to file online and you do not, you may be penalized by the CRA.

If you are a GST/HST registrant, you need to file your GST/HST returns and pay any amounts owing to the CRA on a regular basis. Filing your returns and paying your taxes on time can help you avoid interest, penalties, and audits from the CRA.

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One of the easiest and most convenient ways to file your GST/HST returns and pay your taxes is to use GST/HST NETFILE, an online service that allows you to file your returns and eligible rebates directly to the CRA over the internet.

In this article, we will explain what GST/HST NETFILE is, how it works, who can use it, and how to use it. We will also answer some frequently asked questions about GST/HST NETFILE and provide some tips on how to file your returns correctly and efficiently.

By the end of this article, you will have all the information you need to use GST/HST NETFILE to file your GST/HST returns online in 2024. Let’s begin!

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Table of Contents

What is GST/HST NETFILE?

GST/HST NETFILE is an online service that allows you to file your GST/HST returns and eligible rebates directly to the CRA over the internet. You can use GST/HST NETFILE to file your regular GST/HST returns (GST34), your simplified GST/HST returns (GST34-2), and your annual GST/HST returns (GST62). You can also use it to file your GST/HST rebates, such as the new housing rebate, the new residential rental property rebate, and the public service bodies’ rebate.

GST/HST NETFILE is fast, easy, secure, and convenient. You can file your returns anytime and anywhere, as long as you have an internet connection and a web browser. You can also get instant confirmation that your return has been received by the CRA, and receive your refunds faster by direct deposit. You can also view your previously filed returns and track your payments online through My Business Account or the MyCRA mobile app.

GST/HST NETFILE is mandatory for some GST/HST registrants, such as builders, large businesses, and those who report recaptured input tax credits. If you are required to file online and you do not, you may be penalized by the CRA. You can find out if you are required to file online by visiting the GST/HST NETFILE website and reading the About GST/HST NETFILE page.

ALSO READ: How to Get the Grocery Rebate Payments in Canada in January 2024

How does GST/HST NETFILE work?

An access code is a four-digit number that is printed on the personalized GST/HST return (GST34) or rebate form that you receive from the CRA. A web access code is a six-digit number that you can obtain online or by phone from the CRA. A CRA user ID and password are the same credentials that you use to access other CRA online services, such as My Business Account or MyCRA.

You can use GST/HST NETFILE to file your returns and rebates by following these steps:

Visit the GST/HST NETFILE website and read the [Terms and conditions of use] and the [Privacy notice].
Select the [Ready to file] button and choose the type of return or rebate that you want to file.
Enter your access code, web access code, or CRA user ID and password, and select the [Next] button.
Enter your GST/HST account number, your reporting period, and your return or rebate information, and select the [Next] button.
Review your return or rebate information and make any changes if needed, and select the [Next] button.
Agree to the certification statement and select the [Submit] button.
Receive your confirmation number and print or save a copy of your return or rebate for your records.

You can also use GST/HST NETFILE to view your previously filed returns and rebates by following these steps:

Visit the GST/HST NETFILE website and read the [Terms and conditions of use] and the [Privacy notice].
Select the [Ready to file] button and choose the [View a previously filed GST/HST return or rebate] option.
Enter your CRA user ID and password, and select the [Next] button.
Select the return or rebate that you want to view from the list of available returns and rebates.
View the details of your return or rebate and print or save a copy if needed.

Who can use GST/HST NETFILE?

You can use GST/HST NETFILE if you meet the following criteria:

You are a GST/HST registrant or a GST/HST rebate applicant.
You have an access code, a web access code, or a CRA user ID and password.
You have a valid email address or a valid mailing address.
You have a compatible web browser that supports 128-bit encryption, such as Internet Explorer, Firefox, Chrome, or Safari.
You have a printer or a PDF reader to print or save a copy of your return or rebate.

You cannot use GST/HST NETFILE if:

You are a selected listed financial institution (SLFI) that is required to file a GST/HST return for SLFIs (GST494) or a GST/HST return for SLFIs with a permanent establishment in Quebec (GST497).
You are a non-resident business that is registered under the simplified GST/HST framework and is required to file a simplified GST/HST return (GST34-3).
You are a charity that is required to file a public service bodies’ rebate for charities (GST66) or a non-profit organization that is required to file a non-profit organizations – government funding (GST523-1).
You are a person that is required to file a GST/HST return for imported taxable supplies and qualifying consideration (GST506).
You are a person that is required to file a GST/HST return for the provincial part of the HST (GST111).
You are a person that is required to file a GST/HST return for the provincial part of the HST for PEI (GST111-1).
You are a person that is required to file a GST/HST return for the provincial part of the HST for Nova Scotia (GST111-2).
You are a person that is required to file a GST/HST return for the provincial part of the HST for Newfoundland and Labrador (GST111-3).
You are a person that is required to file a GST/HST return for the provincial part of the HST for New Brunswick (GST111-4).
You are a person that is required to file a GST/HST return for the provincial part of the HST for Ontario (GST111-5).
You are a person that is required to file a GST/HST return for the provincial part of the HST for British Columbia (GST111-6).

If you cannot use GST/HST NETFILE, you can use other methods to file your returns and rebates, such as:

My Business Account: a secure portal that allows you to interact electronically with the CRA on various business accounts, including GST/HST.
Represent a Client: a service that allows authorized representatives, such as accountants or bookkeepers, to access online services and information on behalf of their clients, including GST/HST.
TELEFILE: a phone service that allows you to file your GST/HST returns using a touch-tone phone and a four-digit access code.
Paper: a method that allows you to file your GST/HST returns and rebates by mail using the personalized forms that you receive from the CRA.

How to use GST/HST NETFILE?

To use GST/HST NETFILE, you need to follow these steps:

Visit the [GST/HST NETFILE website] and read the [Terms and conditions of use] and the [Privacy notice].
Select the [Ready to file] button and choose the type of return or rebate that you want to file.
Enter your access code, web access code, or CRA user ID and password, and select the [Next] button.
Enter your GST/HST account number, your reporting period, and your return or rebate information, and select the [Next] button.
Review your return or rebate information and make any changes if needed, and select the [Next] button.
Agree to the certification statement and select the [Submit] button.
Receive your confirmation number and print or save a copy of your return or rebate for your records.

You can also use GST/HST NETFILE to view your previously filed returns and rebates by following these steps:

Visit the [GST/HST NETFILE website] and read the [Terms and conditions of use] and the [Privacy notice].
Select the [Ready to file] button and choose the [View a previously filed GST/HST return or rebate] option.
Enter your CRA user ID and password, and select the [Next] button.
Select the return or rebate that you want to view from the list of available returns and rebates.
View the details of your return or rebate and print or save a copy if needed.

ALSO READ: How to Report CRA Rental Income and Avoid Penalties – 5 Important Points

What are the benefits of using GST/HST NETFILE?

Using GST/HST NETFILE has many benefits, such as:

It is fast and easy. You can file your returns and rebates in minutes, without having to mail or deliver paper forms to the CRA. You can also get instant confirmation that your return or rebate has been received by the CRA, and avoid delays or errors due to lost or damaged mail.
It is secure and confidential. Your information is encrypted and protected by the CRA’s security systems, and only you and the CRA can access it. You can also use your CRA user ID and password to access other CRA online services, such as My Business Account or MyCRA.
It is convenient and flexible. You can file your returns and rebates anytime and anywhere, as long as you have an internet connection and a web browser. You can also view your previously filed returns and rebates online, and track your payments and balances online.
It is cost-effective and environmentally friendly. You can save money on postage, printing, and paper, and reduce your environmental impact by using less resources and generating less waste.
It is accurate and efficient. You can avoid mistakes and omissions by using the CRA’s online calculators and tools, and by following the instructions and prompts on the screen. You can also reduce the risk of audits and penalties by filing your returns and rebates correctly and on time.

ALSO READ: How to File Tax in Canada: A Step-by-Step Guide for Newcomers

What are the drawbacks of using GST/HST NETFILE?

Using GST/HST NETFILE has some drawbacks, such as:

It requires an internet connection and a web browser. You may not be able to use GST/HST NETFILE if you have a slow or unreliable internet connection, or if you have an incompatible or outdated web browser. You may also experience technical difficulties or interruptions due to system maintenance or updates.
It requires an access code, a web access code, or a CRA user ID and password. You may not be able to use GST/HST NETFILE if you lose or forget your access code, web access code, or CRA user ID and password. You may also have to wait for the CRA to send you a new access code or web access code by mail, or to reset your CRA user ID and password by phone or email.
It does not support all types of returns and rebates. You may not be able to use GST/HST NETFILE if you have to file a return or a rebate that is not supported by the service, such as a GST/HST return for SLFIs or a GST/HST return for the provincial part of the HST. You may have to use another method to file your returns and rebates, such as My Business Account, Represent a Client, TELEFILE, or paper.

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Frequently asked questions about GST/HST NETFILE

Here are some common questions and answers about GST/HST NETFILE that you might find helpful:

Q: How do I get an access code or a web access code for GST/HST NETFILE?

A: You can get an access code or a web access code for GST/HST NETFILE in one of the following ways:
1. If you are a new GST/HST registrant, you will receive an access code by mail within 45 days of registering for GST/HST. You can use this access code to file your first return or rebate online.
2. If you are an existing GST/HST registrant, you will receive an access code by mail with your personalized GST/HST return (GST34) or rebate form that the CRA sends you before the end of your reporting period. You can use this access code to file your current return or rebate online.
3. If you do not have an access code or you have lost or misplaced it, you can get a web access code online or by phone from the CRA. To get a web access code online, you need to have your GST/HST account number and your postal code or ZIP code. To get a web access code by phone, you need to call the GST/HST NETFILE help desk at 1-800-959-2038 and provide your GST/HST account number and some personal or business information.

Q: How do I get a CRA user ID and password for GST/HST NETFILE?

A: You can get a CRA user ID and password for GST/HST NETFILE in one of the following ways:
1. If you already have a CRA user ID and password that you use to access other CRA online services, such as My Business Account or MyCRA, you can use the same credentials to access GST/HST NETFILE. You do not need to register or create a new account for GST/HST NETFILE.
2. If you do not have a CRA user ID and password, you can register or create a new account for GST/HST NETFILE online. To register or create a new account online, you need to have your GST/HST account number, your social insurance number (SIN) or business number (BN), and your postal code or ZIP code. You also need to have a valid email address and a security code that the CRA will send you by email or mail.

Q: How do I pay my GST/HST using GST/HST NETFILE?

A: You can pay your GST/HST using GST/HST NETFILE in one of the following ways:
1. You can pay online using the [My Payment] service, which allows you to make payments to the CRA directly from your bank account. You need to have a debit card with a Visa Debit, Debit Mastercard, or Interac Online logo, and a participating financial institution.
2. You can pay online using a third-party service provider, such as a credit card company, a payment platform, or a financial institution. You need to have an account with the service provider and follow their instructions and fees. You can find a list of approved service providers on the [Make a payment] page of the CRA website.
3. You can pay by mail using a cheque or a money order, payable to the Receiver General for Canada. You need to include your GST/HST account number and your reporting period on the cheque or money order, and attach a remittance voucher that you can print from the GST/HST NETFILE website or request by phone from the CRA. You need to mail your payment to the address indicated on the remittance voucher or on the [Where to mail your GST/HST return] page of the CRA website.

Q: How do I change or cancel a GST/HST return or rebate that I filed using GST/HST NETFILE?

A: You can change or cancel a GST/HST return or rebate that you filed using GST/HST NETFILE in one of the following ways:
1. You can change or cancel your return or rebate online using [GST/HST NETFILE] or [My Business Account], as long as you have not received a notice of assessment or a notice of reassessment from the CRA. You need to have your confirmation number and your access code, web access code, or CRA user ID and password to access your return or rebate online.
2. You can change or cancel your return or rebate by phone by calling the GST/HST NETFILE help desk at 1-800-959-2038, as long as you have not received a notice of assessment or a notice of reassessment from the CRA. You need to have your confirmation number and your GST/HST account number to access your return or rebate by phone.
3. You can change or cancel your return or rebate by mail by sending a letter to the CRA, explaining the reason for the change or cancellation and providing the details of the correction. You need to include your GST/HST account number, your reporting period, and a copy of your notice of assessment or notice of reassessment, if you have received one. You need to mail your letter to the address indicated on your notice of assessment or notice of reassessment, or on the [Where to mail your GST/HST return] page of the CRA website.

Tips on how to use GST/HST NETFILE correctly and efficiently

Here are some tips on how to use GST/HST NETFILE correctly and efficiently:

File your returns and rebates on time, and pay your taxes on time. The filing and payment deadlines vary depending on your reporting period and your filing method. You can find the filing and payment deadlines on the [GST/HST NETFILE website] or on the [GST/HST return and payment dates] page of the CRA website. Filing and paying on time can help you avoid interest, penalties, and audits from the CRA.

Use the CRA’s online calculators and tools to prepare your returns and rebates. The CRA provides various online calculators and tools to help you calculate your GST/HST, your input tax credits, your rebates, and your payment amounts. You can find the online calculators and tools on the [GST/HST NETFILE website] or on the [GST/HST calculators and tools] page of the CRA website. Using the online calculators and tools can help you avoid mistakes and omissions on your returns and rebates.
Review your returns and rebates before submitting them. Before you submit your returns and rebates using GST/HST NETFILE, you should review them carefully and make sure they are complete and accurate. You should also check your GST/HST account number, your reporting period, and your access code, web access code, or CRA user ID and password. Reviewing your returns and rebates can help you prevent errors and delays in processing your returns and rebates.
Keep a copy of your returns and rebates for your records. After you submit your returns and rebates using GST/HST NETFILE, you should print or save a copy of your returns and rebates for your records. You should also print or save a copy of your confirmation number and your notice of determination. Keeping a copy of your returns and rebates can help you track your payments and balances, and support your claims in case of an audit or a dispute.

Conclusion

GST/HST NETFILE is an online service that allows you to file your GST/HST returns and eligible rebates directly to the CRA over the Internet. You can use GST/HST NETFILE to file your regular GST/HST returns (GST34), your simplified GST/HST returns (GST34-2), and your annual GST/HST returns (GST62). You can also use it to file your GST/HST rebates, such as the new housing rebate, the new residential rental property rebate, and the public service bodies’ rebate.

To use GST/HST NETFILE, you need to have an access code, a web access code, or a CRA user ID and password. You also need to have your GST/HST account number, your reporting period, and your return or rebate information ready. You can file your returns and rebates anytime and anywhere, as long as you have an internet connection and a web browser.

GST/HST NETFILE is fast, easy, secure, and convenient. You can get instant confirmation that your return or rebate has been received by the CRA, and receive your refunds faster by direct deposit. You can also view your previously filed returns and rebates online, and track your payments and balances online.

We hope this article has been helpful and informative for you. If you are looking for more tips and resources on how to manage your GST/HST obligations and your business, check out our blog at [HustleHub], where we share the latest news and trends for hustlers like you. Thanks for reading and happy hustling! 🙌

Source: (1) GST/HST NETFILE – Canada.ca. https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/e-services/digital-services-businesses/gst-hst-netfile.html. (2) File the return – Complete and file a GST/HST return – Canada.ca. https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/tax/businesses/topics/gst-hst-businesses/complete-file-return-business/file-return.html. (3) GST/HST – Canada.ca. https://www.canada.ca/en/services/taxes/resources-for-small-and-medium-businesses/gst-hst.html. (4) GST/HST – Canada.ca. https://www.canada.ca/en/services/taxes/resources-for-small-and-medium-businesses/gst-hst.html. (5) GST/HST – Canada.ca. https://www.canada.ca/en/services/taxes/resources-for-small-and-medium-businesses/gst-hst.html. (6) GST/HST – Canada.ca. https://www.canada.ca/en/services/taxes/resources-for-small-and-medium-businesses/gst-hst.html.