Filing GST/HST Returns by Telephone

June 12, 2001

12 June 2001

Filing GST/HST Returns by Telephone

The following information is from the CCRA.

The Canada Customs and Revenue Agency (CCRA) has introduced a fast, free, and easy way to file goods and services tax/harmonized sales tax (GST/HST) returns. With GST/HST TELEFILE, businesses can now file GST/HST returns in a matter of minutes using a touch-tone telephone and a toll-free number.

Founded on proven technology, GST/HST TELEFILE is a secure and confidential filing option. It cuts down processing time, eliminates the need to mail paper returns, and speeds up refunds. It is an electronic filing alternative offered to business clients on an invitation-only basis.

Businesses that have been filing GST/HST returns with the CCRA for at least a year may be invited to use the new service.

If so, an access code will be printed on the business' personalized GST/HST return. This access code can then be used if the correct name, Business Number, reporting period, and address are preprinted on the business' personalized return. However, the return itself must also meet the following criteria to be eligible for filing using GST/HST TELEFILE:

* The return being filed has to have a nil balance or a refund of $10,000 or less;
* The return being filed cannot include a claim for a rebate amount on line 111; and
* The return being filed does not require a rebate application form to be filed along with it.

Using GST/HST TELEFILE is as easy as making a 1-800 phone call. With a working copy of the GST/HST return close at hand, qualifying clients call the toll-free number and follow simple directions. An automated telephone process will prompt them to give their tax information using the telephone keypad. Once the data has been entered, clients will be asked to confirm that they want to file the information as their return. The service will immediately give clients a confirmation number and start processing the return.

After having successfully tested the service in the Atlantic provinces since May 2000, the CCRA is now making GST/HST TELEFILE available six days a week in all provinces and territories where GST/HST returns are filed with the CCRA. The service is available from 8:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Monday to Friday, and from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Saturday, local time in all time zones throughout Canada. GST/HST TELEFILE is not available on Sundays or statutory holidays.

For more information on GST/HST TELEFILE, visit the CCRA web site at www.ccra.gc.ca/gsthst-telefile.


Topic(s): 
ARCHIVE
Information Source: 
Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA)
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