How to Register a Corporation in Ontario: Step-by-Step
How do you register a corporation in Ontario? The core steps are to choose a corporate name, prepare and file articles of incorporation, then file an Initial Return after incorporation. This guide explains the word-name and number-name options, when a NUANS report is needed, and the information to prepare for the articles. It also distinguishes the incorporation filing from the follow-up Initial Return: Ontario corporations required to file must submit that return within 60 days after incorporation. You’ll see how to choose a filing route, what to check in the certificate and articles, and how to apply the steps in an illustrative example. A final checklist brings the sequence together. Requirements, fees and service standards can change, so confirm current official guidance before filing. This is general information about Ontario business-corporation registration, not legal advice.
General information, not legal advice.
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Video transcript
How to Register a Corporation in Ontario: Step-by-Step
Choose a word or number name and file the articles. The articles create the corporation on the effective date shown in its certificate; that date may be later if requested. Then file the required Initial Return within 60 days after incorporation. When required, its deadline runs from the incorporation date.
What we will cover
First, name options. Next, the articles and filing. Articles incorporate the business. Then, the Initial Return. Finally, an example and checklist.
Choose a Word or Number Name
A proposed word name needs an Ontario-biased or weighted NUANS report. The report must be dated no more than 90 days before filing. It must remain valid until the articles are endorsed; if it expires first, obtain a valid report. A Canada-biased report is not acceptable for this Ontario filing. A number name needs no NUANS report. The choice depends on whether you are proposing a word name or using a number name.
Prepare and File the Articles
File online through ServiceOntario’s Ontario Business Registry. Direct filing requires a valid, up-to-date account; an intermediary may file on your behalf and charge an additional fee. Use a physical Ontario registered-office address. List director and incorporator information, share classes and any share-transfer restrictions. The certificate sets the effective date. Generally, it is the date the Ministry receives the articles, required documents and fee in accordance with filing requirements. Request a later effective date; it may be up to 30 days later.
File the Initial Return Afterward
The Initial Return is a separate filing after incorporation. Corporations required to file must submit it within 60 days after incorporation. The 60-day period starts on the incorporation date.
Word-Name Report vs. Number Name
A NUANS report lists existing corporate and business names and trademarks similar to the proposed name. Review the report for similar or identical names; the applicant is responsible for this check. Obtain any consent that may be required. Check the date: the report cannot be dated more than 90 days before the articles are filed. A number name requires no NUANS report.
Apply the Steps to a Name Choice
This is an illustrative example. They obtain an Ontario-biased or weighted NUANS report dated no more than 90 days before the articles are filed. They prepare the required address, director, incorporator and share information. After incorporation, they separately calendar the required Initial Return within 60 days. Where required, its 60-day period starts on the incorporation date.
Use This Filing Checklist
First, choose the name route. A word name needs a valid Ontario-biased or weighted NUANS report; a number name does not. Next, gather the article information, including the Ontario physical office address, director and incorporator details, and share structure. File and review the documents. Filing articles through the Ontario Business Registry incorporates the corporation; the Initial Return is a separate filing. Then calendar the required Initial Return within 60 days after incorporation.
Summary & next steps
Choose the name and file the articles. Articles filed through the Ontario Business Registry create the corporation. Remember the separate required return. When required, file the Initial Return within sixty days after incorporation. Check current official requirements before filing. Subscribe for more Ontario business law explainers; visit lambalaw.ca/contact. General information, not legal advice.