Invoice Template Canada: Free Download + GST/HST Requirements
Canadian invoicing requirements vary by province β mainly because of the GST/HST/PST patchwork. Here's what you need on your invoices, your provincial tax rates, and a free template that covers it all.
Canadian invoice requirements
Every Canadian invoice should include the following from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA):
GST vs HST vs PST in Canada
Canada has a complex sales tax system. The rate on your invoice depends on your province of operation:
| Province | Total tax rate | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ontario | HST 13% | HST = 5% GST + 8% PVAT |
| British Columbia | GST 5% + PST 7% | Separate PST registration required |
| Alberta | GST 5% only | No provincial sales tax |
| Quebec | GST 5% + QST 9.975% | Separate QST number (TQ...) |
| Nova Scotia | HST 15% | HST = 5% GST + 10% PVAT |
| New Brunswick | HST 15% | HST = 5% GST + 10% PVAT |
| Manitoba | GST 5% + PST 7% | RST registration required |
| Saskatchewan | GST 5% + PST 6% | PST on most goods, some services |
| PEI | HST 15% | HST = 5% GST + 10% PVAT |
| Newfoundland | HST 15% | HST = 5% GST + 10% PVAT |
The tax applies based on the province where the supply is "made" β typically where your client is located for services.
When do you need to register for GST/HST?
Mandatory registration threshold: CA$30,000
Once your worldwide taxable supplies exceed CA$30,000 in a single quarter or any four consecutive quarters, you must register within 30 days.
Below CA$30,000: voluntary registration is allowed
Registering voluntarily lets you claim Input Tax Credits (ITCs) on business expenses. Useful if you have significant business costs with GST/HST.
Free Canadian invoice template
Chaser's free invoice builder supports CAD currency and includes fields for your GST/HST number. Generate professional PDFs instantly β no download needed.
- β CAD currency support
- β Custom fields for GST/HST registration number
- β Tax line items (show GST separately)
- β Instant PDF generation
- β Automated payment reminders free
Getting paid in Canada
Average Canadian B2B payment terms: Net 30. For freelancers, Net 14 is increasingly accepted and cuts average payment time by 40%.
Frequently asked questions
What must be on a Canadian invoice?
A basic Canadian invoice must include: your business name and address, the client's name and address, invoice date, a description of goods or services, and the total amount. If you are registered for GST/HST, the invoice must also show your GST/HST number, the GST/HST rate, and the GST/HST amount charged.
When do I need to register for GST/HST in Canada?
You must register for GST/HST when your annual worldwide taxable supplies exceed CA$30,000 in a single calendar quarter or four consecutive calendar quarters. Below this threshold, registration is voluntary. Small suppliers benefit from not having to collect and remit GST/HST, but cannot claim input tax credits.
What is the GST/HST rate in Canada?
The federal GST rate is 5%. In provinces with Harmonized Sales Tax (HST), the combined rate is: Ontario 13%, New Brunswick 15%, Nova Scotia 15%, PEI 15%, Newfoundland 15%. British Columbia, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and Quebec have separate provincial sales taxes instead of HST. Alberta has no provincial sales tax.
How do I invoice a client in Quebec?
Quebec invoices require both a federal GST number (5%) and a Quebec QST number (9.975%). Show them separately: 'GST (5%): $X', 'QST (9.975%): $X'. Your QST registration number starts with 'TQ'.
What are standard Canadian invoice payment terms?
Net 30 is the most common payment term for Canadian B2B invoices. Many freelancers are switching to Net 14. Interac e-Transfer is the dominant payment method for invoices under CA$25,000. EFT (Electronic Funds Transfer) is standard for larger B2B invoices. Include your bank institution, transit, and account numbers on invoices.
Professional invoicing for Canadian freelancers
CAD support + automated payment reminders. Free for 3 invoices.
Try Chaser free β