There are several ways to search for Ontario corporations, ranging from simple name searches to detailed corporation reports. The Ministry of Government and Consumer Services (MGS) maintains information about corporations. You can get information about Ontario corporations directly from the government or via one of the government's approved corporate report providers.
Step 1
Gather the information you need to find an Ontario corporation. You need the corporation name and if possible, the Ontario Corporation Number (OCN) or Business Identification Number (BIN).
Step 2
Search the public records maintained by the Companies and Personal Property Security Branch (CPPSB) of the MGS. You can do so by visiting the CPPSB Toronto office at 375 University Ave., 2nd floor, or by mailing a letter detailing the information you need to the CPPSB at 393 University Ave., Suite 200, Toronto ON M5G 2M2. Reports are issued the same day if you visit in person. Mail request turnaround time is four to six weeks. Costs range from $5 to $40 depending on the information you require. Find the fee schedule on the Ontario government website.
Step 3
Order an online report from an MGS authorized provider. These companies, such as OnCorp Direct, produce a variety of corporation reports from simple name searches to detailed lists of all documents filed by a corporation in Ontario. Prices vary between providers and based on what kind of report you need. ServiceOntario maintains a list of all approved corporate report providers.
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Writer Bio
Lily Welsh is a freelance writer from North Carolina, though she has spent much of her adult life living abroad. She is the About.com Guide to Music Careers, and her work appears frequently in other Web-based and print publications. Welsh has worked in the music industry for 15 years and counting and holds B.A.s in international studies and economics.