Effective January 1, 2008, the GST rate was reduced from 6% to 5%, andthe HST rate was reduced from 14% to 13%. This guide has been updatedby the agency to reflect this GST/HST rate reduction. In addition, thisrevised guide contains information concerning the transitionalrebate(s) that may be claimed on the purchase of a new house where theownership and possession are transferred after December 31, 2007.