What is the sales tax in Ontario?

As of 2015, Ontario has a sales tax rate of 13 percent for most items, according to the Ontario Ministry of Finance. This tax, known as the Harmonized Sales Tax, consists of an 8 percent provincial portion and a 5 percent federal portion.

The Harmonized Sales Tax replaced separate federal and retail tax rates in 2010. Certain items are exempt from the 8 percent provincial portion of the tax. These items include newspapers, books, children's clothing, diapers and feminine hygiene products. Motor vehicles, boats and aircraft registered in Ontario but purchased elsewhere are only subject to the provincial portion of the tax.