Taxes

Before July 1, 2010, most purchases in BC will incur a Goods-and-Services Tax (GST) of 5% and a British Columbia Provincial Sales Tax (PST) of 7%. On July 1, 2010, these two taxes will be replaced with a single Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) of 12%. Before July 1, 2010, hotel rooms will be subject to the 5% GST plus an 8 % Hotel Tax; after July 1, 2010, they will be subject to the 12% HST instead.

Some municipalities levy an additional 1% or 2%. Wine, beer, and spirits purchased in bars and restaurants are subject to a 10% tax. Some restaurants build this into the price of the beverage, but others add it to the bill.