How to Register a Business Name in Canada
Most businesses in Canada need to satisfy the legal requirement of registration. Sole proprietorships that bear just the name of the owner with no additions do not need to be registered, nor do sole proprietorships and partnerships in the province of Newfoundland and Labrador. All other businesses are registered at the provincial level with registration governed by provisional authorities, except in cases of federal registration.
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Instructions
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Research the requirements. Start with the website of the provincial authority in charge of business name registration where you live. For example, in British Columbia it is BC Registry Services within the Ministry of Finance.
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Decide on a business structure. The type of business you want to start will determine which forms you fill out and the entire application procedure. Choose from the following options: sole proprietorship, partnership, corporation and cooperative.
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Search for a name. Go to the registry website and make sure no other business has the name you intend to use. It also helps to choose a unique name because choosing one already in use can make the process unnecessarily lengthy and tedious.
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Fill out the forms, and turn in your application along with the required fee. In many cases the entire process can be done online.
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Use an online service or other professional. Online services like the Business Development Centre allow you to put in information about your proposed business and take care of the entire registration process for you. You may also contact an attorney to help you. This is the most expensive option.
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