Example: a Montreal freelancer with GST and QST accounts
Consider a self-employed designer who invoices clients, receives payments through a platform and has registered GST and QST accounts. A useful starting file includes issued invoices, platform transaction reports, bank statements and purchase invoices. The platform’s net bank deposit may differ from the invoiced amount because of fees, refunds or other adjustments.
Identify the customer and transaction details rather than assuming that every sale has the same tax treatment. We review the information within the agreed scope and raise questions before finalizing the period. This is an illustrative preparation example, not a conclusion about a particular transaction.
Prepare these records for the initial assessment
- Your business structure and the services requested
- The months or tax years to prepare and your accounting software
- GST and QST registration details and reporting frequencies
- Sales invoices, platform reports and supporting purchase invoices
- Bank and credit card statements for the relevant periods
- Prior returns and notices from the CRA or Revenu Québec