With the implementation of the HST looming upon us, Ontario residents are wondering about the affects this will have on them, and the products and services seeing change.

When discussing the implementation of this new tax, MPP for Kenora-Rainy River, Howard Hampton says, “This is the wrong tax at the wrong time.  People have less money in their pockets, and this is not the time to be taking more money away from them in taxes. It’s unfair, it’s wrong, and many people will not be able to pay it.”

Hampton speculates that the local small businesses may see a decline in profits due to more residents doing out-shopping to Winnipeg and the United States.

In clothing and footwear, the only changes we will see is in dry cleaning, which will increase from five per cent to 13 per cent.  Children’s clothing will continue to be taxed at five per cent.

There will be no changes in food and beverages with the exception of alcohol, which will decrease from 15-17 per cent to 13 per cent.

Many homeowners will see the biggest increase in their utility bills.  Although municipal water will continue to be exempt, you will now see the 13 per cent on your hydro, gas, and internet bills.  Electricians, plumbers, carpenters, lawn care, landscapers and snow removal companies will now be billing for services at 13 per cent.

Public transit will be staying the same, but hotels, taxis, camp sites and domestic air, rail boat and bus travel originating in Ontario will increase to 13 per cent.  Travel and accommodation fees will currently be charged the HST if travel is taking place after the July 1 implementation date.

Household products are primarily taxed at 13 per cent currently with the only changes being magazines purchased by subscription and home renovations seeing the eight per cent increase.

Child seats and auto insurance will continue to be exempt, but private resale of vehicles and gasoline/diesel will see the increase to 13 per cent.

Resale homes will continue to be exempt, although realtors will now be charging 13 per cent on their commissions.

Prescription drugs will continue to be exempt, although vitamins will increase from GST only, to 13 per cent.  Feminine hygiene products and diapers will continue to see only five per cent tax.

Professional sporting events and movie tickets will see a decrease from 15 per cent to 13, but golf green fees, gym and athletic memberships as well as sports lessons will all see an increase to 13 per cent. Arena and hall rentals will increase as well to 13 per cent.

Fitness trainers, hair stylists, barbers, and esthetician services will all see the eight per cent increase to 13.  Funeral services and legal fees will also be taxed at 13 per cent as of July 1.

Cigarettes, tobacco products and nicotine replacement products will all be increasing to 13 per cent as well.  Good time to quit!

- Ally Dunham