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Reversal of longstanding position with respect to the GST/HST status of trailing commissions

Tax Alert 2026 No. 01, 12 January 2026

In a recent GST/HST interpretation provided to an industry group, the Canada Revenue Agency indicated that it will reverse its longstanding administrative position on the GST/HST status of trailing commissions and adopt the position that trailing commissions are taxable for GST/HST purposes, effective 1 July 2026. This change in administrative position is significant, and it will have several implications for stakeholders.

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