How to Register a Business in Canada?

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17 Jun 2025

Thinking of starting your own business but stuck on what to do next? A lot of people get caught up trying to figure out where to start, who to talk to, and what steps to follow. And let’s be honest, the whole process can feel like a confusing mess of government forms, tax questions, and legal stuff you didn’t know existed. If you're here, you probably just want straight answers. You want to get your business up and running, without missing anything important. That’s exactly what we’ll cover here; simple steps, explained clearly, from the perspective of an accounting team that’s helped hundreds of business owners start right.

Key Takeaways

Pick the right business structure first, as it affects everything from taxes to paperwork.
Register federally or provincially, depending on where and how you want to operate.
You’ll need a business name, a CRA business number, and the right licenses to stay legal.
An accountant can help make sure you don’t miss steps that cost time or money later.

What Does It Mean to Register a Business in Canada?

How to register a business in Canada means making it official with the government. You choose a legal structure (like a sole proprietorship, partnership, or corporation), register your name, get your tax accounts, and apply for any licenses you need. It’s how you turn your idea into a real, operating business.

Step-by-Step: How to Register a Business in Canada

Registering a business in Canada means making it official with the government. First, choose a name for your business. Check if the name is already taken. Decide your business type: sole proprietorship, partnership, or corporation. Register your business online or at a local office. Get a Business Number (BN) from the CRA for taxes. Apply for any licenses you need. You're ready to start your business!

1. Choose Your Business Structure

This is one of the most important decisions. Are you going solo, joining forces with a partner, or going for full incorporation? Each option comes with different rules, tax setups, and levels of liability.

Sole proprietorship: Simple and cheap, but you’re personally liable.
Partnership: Shared responsibility and shared profits.
Corporation: More paperwork, but better for taxes and legal protection.

If you’re not sure what fits best, this is where CJCPA can help you map it out.

2. Pick and Register Your Business Name

You need a unique name that isn’t already taken. You can do a name search through the government (NUANS). If your business name includes anything beyond your legal name, you’ll likely need to register it.

3. Register with the Right Government

Federal registration (through Corporations Canada) gives you rights to your business name across Canada.
Provincial registration limits you to one province but is simpler.

If you're going for incorporation Canada-wide, federal makes sense. Otherwise, keep it local.

4. Apply for a CRA Business Number

This number is like your business ID. It lets you open tax accounts like:

GST/HST
Payroll
Import/Export

You can register online through the CRA, or your accountant can help handle it for you.

5. Get the Licenses and Permits You Need

These depend on your business type and location. Use BizPaL to find out exactly what’s required. Miss this step, and you could face fines.

6. (Optional) Apply for Trademarks or Copyrights

If you’ve got a unique brand, name, or product, it might be worth protecting it legally.

Why Structure and Taxes Matter (And Why We Care)

Structure and taxes matter because they decide how much you owe and how you pay. The right setup can save you money and stress. It affects your income, deductions, and reporting rules. Get it wrong, and you could face penalties or overpay. That’s why getting advice from a small business accountant early is smart. We help you set it up right from day one.

Can I Start a Business in Canada with No Money?

Yes. Many people do. Start as a sole proprietor, offer a service, and work from home or online. You don’t need to spend big to begin. We’ve seen clients grow from zero to six figures with no upfront capital, just smart setup and a lean budget.

Why Do So Many Small Businesses Fail?

The reasons why many small businesses fail is due to bad planning, poor cash flow, and no help with accounting or taxes. That’s where we step in. At CJCPA, we help you avoid those traps from day one. We keep your numbers clean and your strategy tight.

What’s the Best Business to Start for Beginners?

Something simple. Think online services, freelancing, tutoring, bookkeeping, or consulting. Low costs. Easy setup. You can figure out how to start your own business without a big learning curve, and we can show you how to stay on the right financial track.

FAQs

Do I need to register my business if I use my own name?

Not always. But you still need a tax setup if you earn money.

Is online business registration available?

Yes. You can register federally or provincially through online portals.

Do I need a business accountant to start?

Not legally. But having one early on helps you avoid costly mistakes.

What’s better, federal or provincial registration?

The federal government gives you name protection across Canada. Provincial is simpler and works if you’re only operating in one place.

Final Word from the CJCPA Team

How to register a business in Canada doesn’t have to be complicated. But skipping steps can lead to stress later. If you want to set your business up the right way from the start; structure, taxes, accounts, and all, we’re here to help. Got questions? Let’s make sure you don’t miss a thing.

How to Register a Business in Canada?

Key Takeaways

What Does It Mean to Register a Business in Canada?