Skip to main content

Apple begins charging sales tax in Canada on iTunes purchases & Apple Music subscriptions

Apple today has confirmed that it is now charging sales tax on TV, movie, music, and audiobook iTunes purchases in Canada. The change first went into effect last week, and now Apple is confirming the new policy.

In a statement to Rene Ritchie, Apple explained that due to changes in Canadian legislation, it is now required to collect sales tax on TV, movies, music, and audiobooks. This includes Apple Music subscriptions, as well.

Here is the statement in full:

“As the world’s largest taxpayer, we respect the important role taxes play in society. Due to recent changes in Canadian legislation and the growth of our business, sales tax will now be charged on purchases of TV, movies, music, and audiobooks. Apple has been operating in Canada for 38 years and we are proud to deliver the best products and services in the world to our customers here.”

iTunes shoppers in Canada first noticed the change last week on Reddit, though there appeared to be issues with some people seeing sales tax charged on iTunes purchases, and some people not seeing it. Today’s confirmation means that GST, HST, PST, and/or QST will be applied, depending on your location. Last week’s confusion was likely due to a brief glitch in the rollout.


Subscribe to 9to5Mac on YouTube for more Apple news:

FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.

You’re reading 9to5Mac — experts who break news about Apple and its surrounding ecosystem, day after day. Be sure to check out our homepage for all the latest news, and follow 9to5Mac on Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn to stay in the loop. Don’t know where to start? Check out our exclusive stories, reviews, how-tos, and subscribe to our YouTube channel

Comments

Author

Avatar for Chance Miller Chance Miller

Chance is the editor-in-chief of 9to5Mac, overseeing the entire site’s operations. He also hosts the 9to5Mac Daily and 9to5Mac Happy Hour podcasts.

You can send tips, questions, and typos to chance@9to5mac.com.

Manage push notifications

notification icon
We would like to show you notifications for the latest news and updates.
notification icon
You are subscribed to notifications
notification icon
We would like to show you notifications for the latest news and updates.
notification icon
You are subscribed to notifications