How Do I Get the HST Back on My New Home?

Qualifying for the HST Rebate

For the HST rebate, a homebuyer must reside in the property and must be the first occupant. To qualify, you must buy a new home, build a new home, or substantially renovate an existing home. If the home is a “co-op” then the unit must be a primary residence. If the home is a new build or a home that has been substantially renovated it must be the primary residence of the purchaser.

Calculating the Rebate Amount

The total amount of HST rebate on a new home is a combination of the federal portion of the HST and the provincial portion of the HST. With various restrictions and limitations, these calculations can sometimes get confusing (and frustrating). That’s why some homeowners decide to get some professional assistance from a rebate specialist. It often streamlines the process from end to end.

Eligibilities for the HST Rebate

To be eligible for the Ontario New Housing Rebate a homeowner must be the principal resident of the purchased property for at least a year after purchase. An IMMEDIATE family member may also be the principal resident – that would include a spouse, parent, or grandparent. A claimant who doesn’t comply with rebate rules and regulations could potentially have to return a rebate. 

Non-Resident Speculation Tax

The Ontario Government has implemented a 15% tax on foreign nationals who purchase a residential property in Ontario. Specifically, the tax applies to individuals who aren’t Canadian Citizens or Permanent Residents. This tax also applies to foreign corporations as well as taxable trustees. All of the “resident” categories are explicitly defined in the government’s legislation.

Hiring a Tax Rebate Professional

For some homeowners, a tax rebate professional can be valuable when applying for the New Home HST Rebate. At Rebate4U, our in-house professionals have ongoing contact with CRA and deal with all types of tax rebates. Rebate4U serves customers throughout Ontario, providing a full service approach. We prepare your application; we assemble all supporting paperwork; and we handle issues that may emerge throughout the application process. During COVID-19, Rebate4U continues to provide service but with much of our work being done from remote locations. Find out more by calling one of our tax experts at 1-800-610-4510 or visit our website at www.rebate4u.ca.