What the holiday tax relief will mean for consumers in Canada [Video]

The federal government’s GST break will arrive this Saturday, just in time for the last stretch of holiday shopping.

Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll save on and how the relief works.

What is the tax relief?

In a bid to help Canadians deal with household costs amid the high cost of living, the federal government decided to waive the federal goods and services tax (GST), which is five per cent, on some products between Dec. 14 and Feb. 15. For provinces with harmonized provincial and federal sales tax (HST), the full HST will be waived.

What products will see the GST waived?

The tax break will apply to:

—prepared foods, including vegetable trays, pre-made meals and salads and sandwiches

—restaurant meals, whether dine-in, takeout or delivery

—some snacks, including chips, candy and granola bars

—beer, wine and cider, as well as pre-mixed alcoholic beverages below seven per cent alcohol by volume (ABV)

—children’s clothing and footwear, car seats and diapers

—some children’s toys, such as board games, …