How to Register a Business in Ontario: Step-by-Step Guide (2025)
Starting your own business in Ontario is exciting—but before you can sell products or services, you’ll need to register your business legally. Whether you’re launching a side hustle, a full-time venture, or a brick-and-mortar shop, this guide walks you through how to register your business in Ontario, including what structure to choose, where to register, and what comes next.
Step 1: Choose Your Business Structure
The first step is deciding how you want to operate legally. Your structure affects taxes, liability, and registration.
Common Types:
- Sole Proprietorship: Single owner; simplest and least expensive to set up. These are registered with Service Ontario.
- Partnership: Two or more owners share profits and liabilities. These are registered with Service Ontario.
- Corporation: Separate legal entity; offers limited liability. Registered with Federal-Corporations Canada, Provincial with Ontario Business Registry.
Step 2: Choose a Business Name(if required)
- If you want a business name (e.g., “Smith Roofing”), you must register the name for effective legal use.
Step 3: Register Your Business Name
To register a Business Name you will need:
- Your business name
- Business address
- Business activity description
- Owner/partner information
- Fees Payment
Step 4: Get a Business Number (BN) from CRA
Once you’re registered, you may need a Business Number (BN) from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) if:
- You plan to collect GST/HST (mandatory if revenue > $30,000/year)
- You have employees (for payroll deductions)
- You import/export goods
- You file corporate income taxes
Step 5: Register for HST/GST (If Applicable)
If your total revenue exceeds $30,000 over four consecutive calendar quarters, you are required to collect and remit HST (13%) in Ontario.
You can register:
- Through the CRA portal (as part of your BN registration)
By phone or by completing RC1 form
Should You Incorporate?
Incorporating your business can provide limited liability protection, better tax planning, and access to funding. It’s ideal if you:
- Want to separate personal and business assets
- Plan to bring on investors or partners
Expect higher income and want tax flexibility
You can incorporate:
- Federally (Canada-wide business rights)
- Provincially (restricted to Ontario)
How Assentt Can Help
At Assentt, we help entrepreneurs get set up the right way from day one. Our business registration services include:
- Business name search and registration
- HST/GST & CRA account setup
- Guidance on sole proprietorship vs. incorporation
- Custom business plan writing for new ventures
Financial projections and startup accounting
Don’t risk making mistakes that could delay your launch or lead to CRA issues. Let us handle the paperwork while you focus on building your business.
Final Thoughts
Registering a business in Ontario is a straightforward process—but it’s important to follow the correct steps, especially when it comes to taxes and legal structure. Whether you’re just starting out or rebranding an existing venture, getting registered properly sets you up for long-term success.
📞 Ready to register? Contact Assentt today for support with your setup, planning, and compliance needs.
The information provided is for educational/entertainment purposes only. Actual information may vary, please consult our office for further details. Got a question? Feel free to reach us at helpdesk@assentt.com.
