December 19, 2024
We are writing to inform you of the upcoming GST/HST holiday announced by the federal government, which will be in effect from December 14, 2024, to February 15, 2025. During this period, specific items will be zero-rated (subject to a 0% GST/HST tax rate). This initiative aims to provide financial relief and applies to eligible products and services. Please find below the details of the GST/HST holiday and categories of items are temporarily zero-rated under the tax holiday, which may positively impact program budgets:
- Food and Beverages – Prepared meals, restaurant purchases (dine-in, takeout, and delivery), non-alcoholic beverages, and snacks.
- Printed Materials – Printed books, religious scriptures, newspapers (excludes digital publications).
- Seasonal Items – Christmas trees (excluding decorations)
For a complete list and details of eligible items, refer to GST/HST break – Canada.ca.
In line with the policy, vendors’ invoices should reflect the adjusted 0% GST/HST tax rate for eligible items purchased or delivered within the validity period. If you make purchases that are exempt from GST/HST during this period, please check the invoice to ensure that the GST/HST rate is zero and that it is reflected in your approvals including transactions on BMO Spend Dynamics. We also encourage you to proactively communicate this requirement to your vendors to ensure proper compliance and avoid discrepancies.
If you have any questions about the tax holiday or how it applies to your program, please reach out to your District Controller.
Thank you for your cooperation.
Susan Gump, Corporate Controller