Provincial Sales Tax (PST)
The provincial sales tax (PST) is a retail sales tax that applies to goods and services that are purchased or brought into BC for provincial use.
✋🏻 Who is required to register to collect PST?
Anyone who is located in British Columbia (BC) and sells or leases taxable goods provides software or taxable services as their business must register for PST collection. Examples include the following:
Taxable goods sold in BC such as alcoholic beverages, cannabis products, soda, vapour products, motor vehicles, boats, building materials, furniture
Leased taxable goods like motor vehicles, tools, equipment, etc.
Taxable services in BC such as repair and maintenance for vehicles, equipment
Legal services in BC
Providing software in BC
Providing telecommunication services in BC
Selling accommodation in specific circumstances in BC
✋🏻 How to report and pay for PST?
There are several methods of reporting and paying for PST:
Through your bank
Government office
By mail or courier
✋🏻 How often do I need to report and pay PST?
| PST Collectable per Year | Ongoing Reporting Period |
|---|---|
| More than $12,000 | Monthly only |
| More than $6,000 up to $12,000 | Monthly or quarterly |
| More than $3,000 up to $6,000 | Quarterly or semi-annual |
| $3,000 or less | Quarterly, semi-annual, or annual |
Additional info, including exceptions to PST collection, can be found on BC’s Ministry of Finance website here.
(*) This article is intended as general information only and is not to be relied upon as constituting legal, financial, or other professional advice. A professional advisor should be consulted regarding your specific situation.
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