We're going to travel up north to around Sault Ste. Marie and have been advised that if we keep our receipts from purchases or services that we acquired in Canada, that it's possible that we'll be able to recoop some of the taxes we paid. If true, how does this work? Is it applicable on all receipts? Would appreciate any advise.

This message has been edited. Last edited by: DorianGreyed,

Kelley, you can most definetly receive a refund on the taxes you pay while you are in Canada. We went to Canada last summer and did the very same thing. There are a few things you'll want to remember. When crossing the border, have all your receipts ready. You'll need to have them stamped there. Ask for a Tax Refund pamphlet and a proof of export. This will vary depending upon where you cross the border. All I needed to claim my refund was my stamped receipts.

GST and HST are the taxes that are refundable. They will not reimburse you for gasoline purchases. Only receipts with a minimum purchase of CAN$50 are eligible. As for hotel stays, only receipts with a minimum total of CAN$200 are eligible.

Once you get home, you simply mail the receipts and the provided form and wait for your check. It took a few months for my refund to appear and my bank seemed to have difficulties cashing a foreign check, but I eventually got everything settled. Take photo copies of everything for your records. Here is their official webpage if you have any other questions.

www.ccra.gc.ca

Have a great time in Canada!

Jenny, thanks soooo much. That's just what I was looking for.

Hey BTW how did your boss' 50th birthday party go? Hope it was fun.

Hey Kelleygirl-here is a neat website for all Americans to have before they come to Canada

http://www.icomm.ca/emily/

Enjoy