Incorporation Basics — Ontario vs. Federal

Ontario vs. Federal Incorporation

Steps to Incorporate in Ontario

1. Choose a business name — Or operate as a numbered company (e.g., 12345678 Ontario Inc.).
2. NUANS name search — A search of existing business names to avoid conflicts ($13.80).
3. Prepare Articles of Incorporation — Defines your share structure, directors, and restrictions.
4. File with ServiceOntario — Online or by mail. ~$300 government fee.
5. Prepare corporate minute book — Organizational resolutions, by-laws, share certificates.
6. Register for CRA accounts — HST, payroll, and corporate tax accounts as needed.

Benefits of Incorporation

• Limited liability — Your personal assets are generally protected from business debts.
• Tax advantages — Small business tax rate of ~12.2% (combined) on the first $500K of active business income.
• Credibility — “Inc.” or “Corp.” signals professionalism to clients and partners.
• Perpetual existence — The business continues even if ownership changes.

Do You Need a Professional?

While you can incorporate yourself online, a paralegal ensures your articles, by-laws, and minute book are properly set up — avoiding costly mistakes down the road. We offer fixed-fee incorporation packages.