Halloween DealsAmazon USHalloween week deals: useful picks before month-endAmazon US: current deals, useful picks and tech finds.Check DealsClean PCRecommendedOne scan can reveal what keeps slowing WindowsLook for cleanup and repair opportunities.Run ScanHalloween DealsAmazon USOctober picks are moving - compare before checkoutAmazon US: current deals, useful picks and tech finds.See Picks×
Skip to the guide
THE FINANCEBASE List yours

Guide

How to Apply for the First-Time Home Buyer GST/HST Rebate on a New Build

By TheFinanceBase Team 10 min read

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

If you are buying a qualifying newly built home from a builder, first ask whether the builder will credit the first-time home buyer (FTHB) GST/HST rebate at closing. If it will, you complete and sign Form GST190 (and, where applicable in Ontario, Form RC7190-ON) and give the forms to the builder or closing lawyer. If the builder will not credit the rebate, you file the claim yourself with the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) through My Account or by mail. The usual filing deadline is two years after ownership transfers, or after possession for certain leased-land arrangements.

The rebate can return up to 100% of the GST or federal part of HST, to a maximum of $50,000. Eligibility depends on your first-time-buyer history, citizenship or residency status, the home’s use as your primary residence, the home’s value, and construction and closing dates.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

What the FTHB GST/HST rebate covers

The CRA’s first-time home buyer GST/HST rebate is intended for an eligible individual who buys, builds, or substantially renovates a first home. For a qualifying new build purchased from a builder, it can recover the GST or the federal part of HST paid on the home, subject to the value limits and the $50,000 maximum.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

The rebate does not automatically cover every tax amount shown on a closing statement. In Ontario, a separate provincial HST component may require Form RC7190-ON. The federal and Ontario portions must be claimed under the applicable rules and forms.

#1 Best Overall
Kinevolve Mouse Pad for Excel/Word/PowerPoint/Windows Shortcuts – Small Excel Cheat Sheet Desk Pad – 11.8"x9.8" Portable Computer Mousepad – Gaming, Office, Waterproof, Non-Slip, Stitched Edges
  • Compact & Portable Design: This Small Excel, Word, PowerPoint, & Windows Cheat Sheet Mouse Pad measures 11.8" x 9.8", offering a portable mouse pad. Its compact size fits in bags or laptop cases, suitable for professionals, students, or travelers.
  • Multi-Software Shortcut Guide: Featuring essential shortcut keys for Excel, Word, PowerPoint, & Windows, this small mouse pad provides a quick reference for frequently used shortcuts, offering a reference designed to support workflow efficiency
  • Smooth & Precise Surface: The finely-textured surface ensures precise mouse control, allowing for smooth and accurate movement during work or gaming sessions.
  • Durable & Non-Slip Design: This Multi-Software Shortcut Mouse Pad features stitched edges to reduce fraying. The non-slip rubber base helps keep it securely in place, and the water-resistant fabric allows for easier maintenance.
  • Clear Print Quality: Displays high-resolution printing intended to remain legible through regular use and cleaning

On March 17, 2026, the CRA said: “The CRA is now accepting applications for the new first-time home buyers’ (FTHB) GST/HST rebate, one of the ways the Government of Canada is making homes more affordable.”

How the home-value phase-out works

The maximum is available for a home valued at or below $1 million. The rebate is reduced on a straight-line basis when the value is above $1 million and below $1.5 million, and no FTHB rebate is available at $1.5 million or more.

Home value used for the CRA test Maximum FTHB rebate How to interpret it
$1,000,000 or less Up to $50,000 Up to 100% of eligible GST or the federal part of HST, subject to the tax actually paid.
More than $1,000,000 and less than $1,500,000 Reduced proportionally Use the straight-line phase-out between the two thresholds.
$1,500,000 or more $0 The FTHB rebate is unavailable at or above this value.

For a value in the phase-out range, the maximum before applying the tax-paid limit is:

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

$50,000 × ($1,500,000 − home value) ÷ $500,000.

For example, a home value of $1.2 million produces a maximum of $30,000 under that formula. Your actual claim cannot exceed the eligible GST or federal HST paid, and CRA’s calculation controls the final amount.

Rank #2
Office Desk Accessories 2pcs Computer Monitor Memo Board Office Supplies | Computer Monitor Memo Board Computer Sticky Note Holder
  • [MULTIFUNCTIONAL]You'll get 2 pieces computer monitor memo boards that you can stick on the left and right edges of your monitor, and they're the perfect office desk organizers and accessories. Computer monitor side panels desktop organizer are suitable for home work or office,bringing convenience. Desktop memo is used to organize meeting memos, important messages, business cards, planning notes.Paste on the message board to keep track of important things and to-do items to prevent forgetting.
  • [🌟HIGHLY QUALITY] The material of computer screen side note holder is transparent acrylic. Durable, simple, stylish, light weight, easy to use, not easy to fall off or break. This cute office supplies for women desk can be used for a long time. This computer desk accessories is waterproof and dirt resistance, and look simple and stylish. The transparent acrylic sticky note holder as cubicle accessories is easy to notice the context of your sticky notes.
  • [📋Easy to use] Office must haves cool office gadgets for desk ready to tear, easy to install and remove, not easy to leave traces. You only need to peel off the protective film on the surface of the computer side board memo, wipe off the dust on the edge of the computer monitor, and then stick the desk essentials for women office on the right or left side of the tape, and you're done. A perfect gift for your colleagues, friends or classmates and family members or relatives
  • [🏢MULTI-SCENE USE] This desk supplies computer memo board can be applied to home and office, clear your office decor for women, suitable for most computer monitors, screens and cabinets, you can put it where you think, this cute office decor serve as a reminder. Stick on the computer side. It’s a good office gadgets can remind work improve office productivity. Pasted cabinets, dressers, refrigerators, walls, etc as cubicle accessories. To make life more orderly.
  • [💌NOTE] The adhesive force of the computer sticky note holder is very strong. It can not be directly pasted on the computer screen. It should pasted on the black edge of the screen. Narrow edge not recommended!!! If you are not satisfied with your purchase, or if the product is damaged or broken in transit, please let us know immediately. We will promptly solve your problem.

Check eligibility before you file

Confirm every condition before choosing a form. A closing date alone does not make a purchase eligible.

  • Age and status: You are generally at least 18 and are a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
  • First-time ownership test: During the purchase year or the previous four calendar years, you did not live in a home owned by you or by your spouse or common-law partner.
  • No prior FTHB GST/HST rebate: You have not previously received this rebate.
  • Qualifying home: The property is newly built or substantially renovated. Qualifying forms of housing can include a leased-land home, mobile home, floating home, or co-op housing where the CRA conditions are met.
  • Primary residence: You intend to use the home as your primary place of residence rather than as an investment or ordinary rental property.
  • Timing for a builder purchase: The agreement is generally dated on or after March 20, 2025 and before 2031; construction begins before 2031; substantial completion occurs before 2036; and ownership transfers before 2036.

The first-time test is measured at the relevant transfer or completion point, not simply when you make an offer. For a purchased home, the relevant date is generally when ownership or possession transfers. For an owner-built home, the applicable completion or first-occupancy rule applies instead.

Free tools Windows power users keep installed

One-click scans. No signup required.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Decide who will submit the claim

There are two routes for a home bought from a builder. Ask this question before closing: Will the builder pay or credit the FTHB rebate on my statement of adjustments?

Filing route Who files with CRA Form Typical deadline trigger Tax components
Builder credit at closing Builder submits the signed claim GST190; add RC7190-ON for the applicable Ontario provincial HST component Ownership transfer, or possession for a qualifying leased-land arrangement Federal GST or federal HST; Ontario provincial portion only where the Ontario form and rules apply
No builder credit Buyer files directly GST190; include required supporting documents and any applicable RC7190-ON Ownership transfer, or possession for a qualifying leased-land arrangement Same tax components, claimed by the buyer
Home you built or substantially renovated Buyer files directly GST191 Applicable substantial-completion or qualifying first-occupancy date Eligible GST or federal HST, with any provincial component handled under the applicable rules

A builder’s promise to “handle the rebate” is not the same as a confirmed credit. Get the arrangement and the amount shown in the purchase or closing paperwork, and make sure you know whether the builder is submitting a claim or merely giving you instructions to file one.

How to claim the rebate when the builder credits it

  1. Ask for the builder’s election and amount. Confirm whether the credit will appear at closing and which portion of tax it covers. Ask the builder or closing lawyer which documents they require.
  2. Complete Form GST190. Enter the purchaser details, property information, purchase and transfer details, and rebate calculation. Sign the form; an unsigned form cannot support the claim.
  3. Add the Ontario form when applicable. For an Ontario builder purchase that includes a claim for the provincial HST component, complete and sign Form RC7190-ON as directed by the current CRA instructions.
  4. Deliver the signed forms. Give GST190 and, if required, RC7190-ON to the builder or the lawyer handling the closing. Do not send the builder route forms to CRA yourself unless CRA or the closing professional specifically instructs you to do so; the builder submits the claim.
  5. Check the closing statement. Verify that the credited amount and the tax figures on the statement of adjustments match the agreement. Keep a copy of every signed form and the final statement.

The builder’s credit can reduce the cash you need at closing, but it does not remove your responsibility to provide accurate information. If the claim is later rejected because you did not meet the conditions, the credited amount may have to be repaid under the terms of your agreement.

Rank #3
Taja To Do List Notepad, Undated Daily Planner for Work and Goal Setting
  • Stay Organized with Ease: Our To Do List Notepad provides multiple sections with plenty of space to jot down all of your important tasks.A versatile office supply perfect for daily task management, helping you keep track of everything that needs to be done and prioritize effectively.
  • Achieve Your Productivity Goals: Begin each day on a positive note, reminding you of your potential, strength, and the significance of staying focused on your goals. Our Daily Checklist Notepad is the ultimate tool to streamline your daily planning and elevate your productivity. With a clear and concise overview of your tasks, you can effortlessly prioritize what truly matters and make consistent strides towards achieving your goals.
  • Reliable and Stylish: Our to do list planner combines functionality with durability. With a transparent PP cover, the inner pages are well-protected from dirt and wear. Additionally, the back cover is crafted with thick paperboard, offering a stable surface for your writing needs. Each notepad includes 52 pages of high-quality, 100gsm paper, which is thick and non-bleeding, resulting in a smooth and enjoyable writing experience.
  • Versatile Use: This daily checklist notepad, suitable for teacher supplies and a wide range of applications, proves invaluable in various settings including work, school, and home. Whether you need to organize your daily tasks, plan a project, or create a grocery list, this notepad serves as the ideal tool. Its compact size ensures easy portability, allowing you to conveniently carry it with you throughout your day.
  • Perfect Present for Anyone: Our Daily To-Do List Notepad is the perfect present for those who value organization and productivity. With its stylish design and versatility, this office desk accessory is also a practical addition to school supplies. Suitable for students, professionals, and homemakers alike, it helps keep tasks and priorities in check effortlessly.

How to file yourself when the builder does not credit the rebate

If the builder declines to credit the rebate, or the closing documents leave the rebate for you to claim, submit Form GST190 directly to CRA. The CRA allows direct filing through My Account or by mail.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
  1. Gather the closing record. Obtain the agreement of purchase and sale, statement of adjustments or other closing documents, and evidence of the GST or HST paid.
  2. Complete GST190. Use the builder-purchase form and enter the actual transfer details and tax amounts. Apply the home-value phase-out rather than assuming the full $50,000 maximum.
  3. Include supporting evidence. Add documents CRA requests or that establish the tax paid, the transfer or possession date, and your primary-residence intention.
  4. Submit through My Account or by mail. Retain a complete copy, including attachments and proof of submission.
  5. Monitor the claim. CRA processes claims first-in, first-out. Respond promptly if it asks for clarification or additional records.

The normal deadline is two years from the date ownership transfers. For qualifying leased-land arrangements, the deadline can run from possession instead. Use the date that applies to your legal arrangement, not the date you first moved furniture in or the date you received a tax invoice.

How to claim for a home you built or substantially renovated

A self-built or substantially renovated home follows a different route from a builder purchase. File directly with CRA using Form GST191, through My Account or by mail.

  1. Identify the applicable base date. CRA’s rules can use substantial completion or a qualifying first-occupancy date, depending on the facts.
  2. Complete GST191. Report the construction or renovation details, eligible tax paid, and the information needed to establish that the home became your primary residence.
  3. Assemble proof. Keep land and construction records, invoices showing GST or HST, occupancy evidence, and records linking the work to the home.
  4. File within two years of the applicable base date. The date is not necessarily the date the first contractor started work.

Because completion and occupancy dates can be disputed in complex projects, preserve a dated record of when the home became substantially complete and when qualifying occupancy began.

Documents to keep for a defensible claim

CRA can request additional information after you file. Keep the originals or clear copies until the claim is resolved and for the period required by your tax-record obligations.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Rank #4
Gogoonike Adjustable Laptop Stand for Desk, Metal Laptop Riser Holder | Portable Desktop Book Stands, Foldable Ventilated Cooling Computer Notebook Stand Compatible with 10-15.6” Laptops, Tablets
  • 【Adjustable & Ergonomic】:This laptop stand can be adjusted to a comfortable height and angle according to your actual needs, letting you fix posture and reduce your neck fatigue, back pain and eye strain. Very comfortable for working in home, office and outdoor.
  • 【Sturdy & Protective】 :Made of sturdy metal, it can support up to 17.6 lbs (8kg) weight on top; With 2 rubber mats on the hook and anti-skid silicone pads on top & bottom, it can secure your laptop in place and maximum protect your device from scratches and sliding. Moreover, smooth edges will never hurt your hands.
  • 【Heat Dissipation】 :The top of the laptop stand is designed with multiple ventilation holes. The open design offers greater ventilation and more airflow to cool your laptop during operation other than it just lays flat on the table.
  • 【Portable & Foldable】:The foldable design allows you to easily slip it in your backpack. Ideal for people who travel for business a lot.
  • 【Broad Compatibility】:Our desktop book stand is compatible with all laptops from 10-15.6 inches, such as MacBook Air/ Pro, Google Pixelbook, Dell XPS, HP, ASUS, Lenovo ThinkPad, Acer, Chromebook and Microsoft Surface, etc.Be your ideal companion in Home, Office & Outdoor.
  • Agreement of purchase and sale, including amendments and schedules.
  • Statement of adjustments, closing statement, or equivalent document showing the transfer and tax amounts.
  • Invoices, receipts, or other proof of GST or HST paid.
  • Evidence of ownership transfer or possession, such as the closing record or qualifying lease documentation.
  • Occupancy evidence supporting use as your primary residence.
  • For an owner-built or renovated home, construction contracts, progress invoices, permits, completion records, and first-occupancy evidence.
  • Copies of GST190, RC7190-ON where used, or GST191, plus proof of delivery or electronic submission.

Primary-residence evidence should be consistent with the address you use for government, financial, insurance, and utility records. A document that proves tax was paid does not by itself prove that the home was your primary residence.

Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Support on Ko-Fi

Deadlines and date rules that commonly cause mistakes

Use the event that CRA’s rule specifies for your housing type. The following distinctions matter:

Situation Date that generally starts the two-year period Why it matters
Home purchased from a builder Ownership transfer The closing or transfer date controls even if you signed the contract much earlier.
Qualifying leased-land arrangement Possession, where CRA’s rule treats possession as the trigger Possession can be the relevant event instead of registered ownership.
Home built or substantially renovated Applicable substantial-completion or qualifying first-occupancy date The correct date depends on the project’s facts and CRA’s completion and occupancy rules.

Contract timing is a separate eligibility requirement for builder purchases: the agreement is generally on or after March 20, 2025 and before 2031, construction must begin before 2031, substantial completion must occur before 2036, and ownership must transfer before 2036. Meeting the contract date but missing a construction or transfer window can still make the purchase ineligible.

How long CRA processing takes

Beginning May 11, 2026, CRA says applicants should anticipate 120 days for processing. Claims are handled first-in, first-out. That is an expected processing period, not a promise that every claim will be completed within 120 days.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Incomplete forms, calculation errors, and missing documents can delay processing or result in a denial. A request for more information generally means CRA needs evidence of a specific condition, such as tax paid, primary residence, or the applicable transfer or completion date.

Best Value
Hiacry 8 Pack Gel Pens, Quick-Drying Black Ink, 0.7mm Fine Point Fidget Pen
  • Twin-Ball Design : Hiacry gel pen features a double ball conical tip that reduces writing resistance and provides a stable and smooth writing experience. 0.7mm quick drying black ink ensures no jumping, leakage or seepage.
  • Quick-Dry Long Lasting Ink:0.7mm black ink can slide effortlessly, dry immediately, & is not easily dirty. It has a high-capacity reservoir (up to 1300 meters), which is very suitable for left-handed & right-handed users.
  • Sleek Design for Journaling & Planning: Engineered with a low center of gravity and precision tip for steady ink flow, these journaling pens excel at note-taking, sketching, planning, and more. They combine stylish pens with top-tier performance.
  • Rolling Ball Design:The pocket clip with roll ball design can be easily attached to notebook pockets and binders, in addition, the fidget on the pen clip is also a small toy for your daily thinking to relieve stress.
  • Comfortable Non-Slip Grip:The ergonomic pen barrel has a soft rubberized coating for a comfortable, non-slip grip, so you won't get fatigued even after long hours of writing.

Ontario: use the right provincial form

For an Ontario home purchased from a builder, Form GST190 is paired with Form RC7190-ON when the provincial HST rebate is being claimed. The forms serve different parts of the claim; do not assume that completing GST190 alone captures every Ontario amount.

The CRA’s GST190 information indicates that processing changes for Ontario’s enhanced new-housing rebate were expected in fall 2026. Before submitting an Ontario claim, check the current CRA instructions and the version of RC7190-ON that applies to your closing date and transaction. If your closing package was prepared before those changes, ask the builder or lawyer whether a revised form or calculation is required.

Common problems and how to correct them

The builder promised a credit, but it is missing from the closing statement

Ask the builder or lawyer to explain in writing whether the rebate will be credited, submitted separately, or left for you to claim. If no credit is provided, use the direct-to-CRA GST190 route and preserve the closing documents showing the tax paid.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

You used GST191 for a builder purchase

GST191 is for a home you built or substantially renovated. A purchaser buying from a builder normally uses GST190. Contact the builder or CRA before filing a replacement claim so you do not submit conflicting forms.

You claimed the full $50,000 on a home above $1 million

Recalculate using the straight-line phase-out. At or above $1.5 million, the FTHB rebate is unavailable. Also compare the result with the eligible GST or federal HST actually paid; the claim cannot exceed the tax eligible for recovery.

You missed the two-year deadline

Identify the correct trigger date for your arrangement and calculate the deadline from that date. If the deadline has passed, obtain professional tax advice about whether any statutory relief is available; do not backdate a form or use an earlier occupancy date merely to fit the two-year window.

CRA asks for more proof of primary residence

Provide consistent records showing that you occupied or intended to occupy the home as your primary residence. Explain unusual timing, such as a delayed move caused by construction, with dated documents rather than relying on a general statement.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

The claim is delayed

Check that every required signature, schedule, calculation, and attachment was included. Keep proof of submission, then respond quickly to any CRA request. Processing is first-in, first-out, so an otherwise complete claim may still take time.

A practical filing checklist

  1. Confirm you meet the age, citizenship or permanent-resident, first-time ownership, prior-rebate, qualifying-home, and primary-residence conditions.
  2. Check the builder contract date, construction start, substantial-completion, and ownership-transfer windows.
  3. Determine the home’s value category and calculate any phase-out before relying on a $50,000 maximum.
  4. Ask the builder whether it will credit the rebate and identify the federal and, if applicable, Ontario portions.
  5. Use GST190 for a builder purchase, adding RC7190-ON when the Ontario provincial component is being claimed.
  6. Use GST191 for a home you built or substantially renovated.
  7. Collect the agreement, closing or completion records, proof of tax paid, occupancy evidence, and copies of all forms.
  8. File through the correct route before the two-year deadline and retain proof of submission.
  9. Allow for CRA’s stated 120-day processing expectation beginning May 11, 2026, and answer information requests promptly.

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.

Leave a comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

More guides

Recommended PC Tool
Recommended PC Tool
Crashes, No Sound, or Screen Glitches?Free driver scan
PC Slower Than It Used to Be?Free scan - under a minute

Two free Windows tools

One Free Minute Could Fix That PC

Before you go - each of these free tools takes about a minute and tackles what quietly slows a Windows PC down.

Special offer. View Outbyte info, uninstall instructions, EULA, and Privacy Policy.