There are certain benchmarks that we can use to measure our success as voice actors. Some of them may be general. Some of them personal.
For example, booking a national commercial would be (in my opinion) a general benchmark for success. That’s a big deal. If you’ve done it, be proud! If you’re still working on it, don’t give up! On the personal side, perhaps voicing a project for a dream client would be a benchmark for success.
HST For Canadian VO’s
For Canadian voice actors, another benchmark might be registering for your HST number. After all, that means you’ve surpassed the $30,000/year mark in income, and are well on your way to building a very promising full-time career. Of course it also means more paperwork and math, which aren’t as enjoyable. But let’s not focus on that. 😉
If you’re new to the wonderful world of HST or if you’ll be diving into that world soon, the first thing I will tell you is consult your accountant! We’re talking about the government here. This is not something you want to mess around with. Trust me, one way or another, they’ll get their money. Do yourself a favour and do the research!
The second thing I’ll tell you is, it gets confusing. Who do you charge HST? How much HST do you charge? How do you pay your HST? You’ll get to familiarize yourself with the answers to all of these questions. But I’m going to answer one of them for you now.
HST By Province
Each province and territory has a different tax rate. Which means if you’re working with clients outside of your home province, you’re going to need to know how much to charge. Here’s that list…
Alberta – 5%
British Columbia – 5%
Manitoba – 5%
New Brunswick – 13%
Newfoundland and Labrador – 13%
Northwest Territories – 5%
Nova Scotia – 15%
Nunavut – 5%
Ontario – 13%
Prince Edward Island – 14%
Saskatchewan – 5%
Yukon – 5%
For more information on HST/GST click here.
To register for your HST number call 1-800-959-5525
PS: Buy your accountant dinner to ask them questions about HST and give yourself a tax write-off! 😉
