Photo credit: globalnews.ca
In an effort to alleviate the financial burden faced by Canadians amid rising prices, a new initiative has been introduced that exempts certain items from the Goods and Services Tax (GST). However, for some residents in Calgary like James Duffy, the changes haven’t made a noticeable impact.
“No, I never really thought about it, to be honest,” said Duffy. “You just buy what you buy each week and move on.”
The list of items that are now GST-exempt is extensive and, at times, perplexing. For instance, ski jackets enjoy the exemption, while ski helmets, boots, and goggles do not. As a result, small business employees, such as Bailey Lahure from Ski West in Calgary, are finding themselves in conversations with customers to help clarify these distinctions.
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Prior to the implementation of the GST exemption, some business owners expressed concerns about the complexity of determining which items were eligible. Fortunately for Lahure, the process turned out to be manageable.
As discussions about the GST exemption unfold, other issues remain prominent. While the temporary cessation of the GST is appreciated by those who are aware of it, many believe it does not sufficiently tackle the broader challenges surrounding the high cost of living.
The GST holiday is set to stay in effect until February 14, 2025.
Source
globalnews.ca