Tax Number Validation Guide (GST/QST)

Tax Number Validation Guide (GST/QST)

Before paying a bill, make sure your supplier is properly registered with the tax authorities. If their registration number is invalid, you may not be able to claim the taxes paid.

1. Validation at the provincial level (Quebec - QST)

The Revenu Québec website allows you to check if a supplier is registered for the QST (Quebec Sales Tax). You will need the supplier's name or their NEQ (Quebec Enterprise Number).

• Validation tool: Consult the QST register

• Format type: 1234567890 TQ 0001 (10 digits, followed by TQ and 4 digits).

2. Federal Validation (Canada - GST)

The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) tool confirms the validity of the GST/HST number. Important: The name entered must exactly match the name associated with the tax account.

• Validation tool: Consult the GST/HST register

• Format type: 123456789 RT 0001 (9 digits, followed by RT and 4 digits).

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Quick reference guide: Why validate?

Situation	Recommended action
New supplier	Always validate before the first payment.
Significant amount	Keep a screenshot of the validation for your records.
Invalid number	Contact the provider: it could be a typo or a revoked registration.

Important note: If you pay taxes to a supplier with an invalid number, Revenu Québec or the CRA may claim reimbursement of the credits you have claimed, plus interest.