Farm inputs and GST: what's taxed and what isn't
Many basic farm inputs are zero-rated: they're taxable, but at 0%. So the receipt shows no GST/HST, and there's nothing to claim back on them.
Usually no GST/HST
Things like these are usually zero-rated when bought for farming in farm quantities:
- feed for livestock,
- seed for planting,
- fertilizer, and
- livestock raised for food, and grain sold to an elevator.
The rules have details (for example, the amounts sold and what the item is for), so it's worth asking your accountant once about the things you buy most.
Usually with GST/HST
- fuel, repairs and parts,
- most machinery and tools,
- vet services and many medicines (check yours),
- custom work and most services.
If you're registered for GST/HST, you claim back the GST/HST you paid on these.
PST
In provinces with PST, farmers can often buy certain farm items without PST, usually by showing a farm exemption or registration with the province. Each province has its own rules.
In PeaceBooks
When you add a farm, PeaceBooks sets feed, seed and fertilizer to no GST/HST and no PST, and vet, medicine and custom work to GST/HST without PST. The app reads the tax printed on each receipt, so if a store charged differently, you'll see it on the check screen and can fix it in a tap.
This is general information to help you keep good records, not tax or legal advice. Your accountant knows your situation; check with them before a big decision.
More tips
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Why money you take out often isn't an expense, for the self-employed and for companies.
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