Maximizing Efficiency — File Your GST/QST (TPS/TVQ) Return in Under 30 Minutes with Proper Preparation

Time is money especially for Quebec entrepreneurs. This guide from Mackisen CPA Montreal shows how simple organization, the right tools, and a professional system can help you prepare and file your GST/QST (TPS/TVQ) return in less than 30 minutes while ensuring full compliance with Revenu Québec and CRA.

Why Efficiency Matters in GST/QST (TPS/TVQ) Filing

Many business owners see GST/QST filing as a time-consuming chore. But with a clear process and consistent preparation, you can turn it into a quick, streamlined task. Filing your return faster doesn’t mean cutting corners it means being efficient, organized, and proactive.

Both the Excise Tax Act (CRA) and the Tax Administration Act (ARQ) require businesses to file on time, accurately, and with supporting documentation. The longer you wait or the more disorganized your books are, the more time and money you lose.

The goal? Speed with precision. Mackisen CPA Montreal helps you achieve both.

The 30-Minute Filing Strategy

Follow these five steps to cut your filing time dramatically without compromising quality or compliance.

Step 1 — Keep Your Records Updated Weekly

If your receipts, invoices, and payments are organized throughout the month, filing becomes effortless.

Every week:

• Record your sales invoices with the correct GST (5%) and QST (9.975%) amounts.

• Enter all supplier invoices and expenses, ensuring tax amounts are recorded.

• Match payments to invoices to avoid missing transactions.

By keeping your books current, your quarterly or annual filing becomes a simple review not a scramble. Mackisen CPA Montreal integrates your bookkeeping software (QuickBooks, Xero, or Sage) directly with your tax accounts to automate this process.

Step 2 — Reconcile Monthly

Monthly reconciliation saves hours later. Verify that all GST/QST collected and paid match your accounting reports.

Checklist:

• Confirm sales and purchase totals match bank deposits.

• Verify Input Tax Credits (ITCs) and Input Tax Refunds (ITRs).

• Identify discrepancies immediately.

This monthly discipline ensures your records are always ready for Revenu Québec or CRA review and your next filing won’t require hunting for errors.

Step 3 — Use the Right Tools for Fast Filing

Technology is your best ally. Use cloud-based accounting systems with built-in tax features that calculate GST/QST automatically.

Recommended tools:

• QuickBooks Online — integrates directly with CRA’s My Business Account and Revenu Québec’s Mon dossier.

• Sage Accounting — strong for medium-sized businesses with multiple accounts.

• Xero — ideal for small firms seeking automation and simplicity.

Mackisen CPA Montreal configures these tools for your specific business structure, ensuring every TPS/TVQ entry is accurate and instantly retrievable.

Step 4 — File Electronically and Keep Confirmation Proofs

When it’s time to file, log in to:

• CRA’s My Business Account (for GST/HST)

• Revenu Québec’s Mon dossier pour les entreprises (for QST/TVQ)

Electronic filing saves hours compared to paper returns. Each submission generates instant confirmation and eliminates mailing delays or manual errors.

Once submitted, download and store:

• The confirmation number (official proof of filing).

• A PDF copy of the filed return.

• Any proof of payment or refund notifications.

Mackisen CPA Montreal maintains digital records for clients accessible anytime and ready for audit defense if needed.

Step 5 — Work with a CPA to Save Time and Eliminate Errors

The fastest way to file correctly? Let professionals handle it.
A Mackisen CPA reviews your data before submission, identifies missing receipts or miscalculations, and ensures compliance with CRA and ARQ rules. This pre-check prevents costly corrections later.

Our clients typically spend less than 30 minutes per period reviewing and approving returns we do the rest. That’s true efficiency: your filings are accurate, verified, and on time, every time.

Real Client Story — From Hours to Minutes

A Montreal marketing agency used to spend half a day preparing its TPS/TVQ returns. After switching to Mackisen CPA Montreal’s automated system, their process now takes 20 minutes from start to finish.
All transactions sync automatically, reconciliation is done monthly, and returns are filed early. “I can’t believe something that used to ruin my week is now a 20-minute task,” said the owner.

The Mackisen CPA Montreal Advantage — Speed, Accuracy, and Compliance

Filing your GST/QST (TPS/TVQ) return in under 30 minutes is possible but only when your system is built for efficiency. Mackisen CPA Montreal provides that system.

Our approach combines:

• Automation: Linking accounting data with CRA and Revenu Québec platforms.

• Verification: Every return reviewed by a licensed CPA.

• Compliance: Alignment with both the Excise Tax Act and Tax Administration Act.

• Audit-Ready Documentation: All records securely stored for six years.

You’ll never rush, guess, or worry about missing a deadline again.

Key Takeaways

1. Update and reconcile your accounting records regularly not just before deadlines.

2. Use software that automates GST/QST calculations and integrates with CRA/ARQ systems.

3. File electronically for faster processing and proof of submission.

4. Rely on CPA oversight for guaranteed compliance and time savings.

5. With Mackisen CPA Montreal, GST/QST filing becomes a 30-minute routine, not a full-day burden.

Conclusion — Efficiency Is a Competitive Edge

Filing on time isn’t just about avoiding penalties it’s about running a smarter business.
When you can manage your TPS/TVQ (GST/QST) filings quickly and confidently, you free up hours for growth, planning, and strategy. Mackisen CPA Montreal helps you get there, combining automation, precision, and professional care so your tax compliance runs like clockwork.