Only specific relatives can be on title for HST rebate

Post by: Evan Holt

The HST new homebuyer’s rebate entitles qualified purchasers to a substantial rebate. The maximum federal and provincial portion of the rebate is $6,300 and $24,000 respectively. A Tax Court of Canada decision released at the end of March has further clarified who can qualify for the rebate.

“[T]itle may be held by the buyer jointly with a specific blood relation, including a child and grandchild, a brother or sister, and relationships by marriage or common-law partnerships — even if the relative doesn’t live in the house.” Here, an uncle was on title with his niece for mortgage financing purposes. As this relationship is not a category recognized by the legislation the purchaser did not qualify for the rebate.

“This means that if just one of the buyers does not qualify, even as the owner of a one percent interest in the property, none of the buyers can get the rebate.” For the full Toronto Star article click here.