Start Your Business the Right Way — With CPA-Certified Experts by Your Side

Launching a business in Ontario is one of the most rewarding decisions you will ever make. But the registration process choosing the right structure, filing the correct documents, setting up your CRA accounts can feel overwhelming without the right guidance. At Tax Square Professional Corporation, we have been helping entrepreneurs, newcomers, and growing businesses register successfully in Ontario and Toronto for over 15 years.

Whether you are a freelancer looking to register your first sole proprietorship, a professional ready to incorporate, or a startup team setting up a partnership our licensed CPAs handle everything from start to finish so you can focus on building your business.

📞 Call Us Today: 647-400-2709 | 📧 info@taxsquarepc.ca

Why Register Your Business in Ontario?

Ontario is the economic heartbeat of Canada. With more than 490,000 registered small businesses and a GDP that accounts for over 38% of the entire country’s output, this province offers entrepreneurs an unmatched environment to start, grow, and scale a business.

Toronto, Ontario’s capital and Canada’s largest city, is consistently ranked among the top cities in North America for startup activity, access to capital, and business diversity. From the tech corridor along King Street West to the professional services hubs in Mississauga and Markham  opportunity is everywhere in this province.

Here is why registering your business in Ontario makes sense in 2026:

  • Ontario’s consumer market is the largest in Canada, with over 14 million residents
  • The province offers small business corporate tax rates as low as 12.2% for incorporated businesses
  • The Ontario Business Registry allows fast, online registration processed within 1 to 5 business days
  • Federal and provincial startup grants are available to newly registered Ontario businesses
  • A strong banking ecosystem makes it easier for registered businesses to access credit and financing
  • Ontario’s legal framework protects incorporated businesses with limited liability provisions

Our Business Registration Services in Ontario & Toronto

Every business has different needs, and no two entrepreneurs are in the same situation. That is why Tax Square offers a full range of registration services tailored to your specific goals, industry, and growth plans.

Sole Proprietorship Registration Ontario

A sole proprietorship is the simplest and most affordable way to get your business off the ground in Ontario. You register your business name through the Ontario Business Registry, obtain your CRA Business Number, and you are ready to operate  often within a matter of days.

This structure is ideal for freelancers, consultants, tradespeople, and anyone testing a business idea before committing to a more complex structure. We handle the name registration, CRA setup, and HST account activation so the entire process is seamless for you.

Government fee: $60 CAD | Renewal required: Every 5 years

Partnership Registration Ontario

Going into business with one or more partners? A general partnership is a straightforward structure that allows two or more individuals to share profits, responsibilities, and liabilities. We register your partnership with the Ontario Business Registry and strongly recommend a professionally drafted partnership agreement to protect all parties involved.

For situations where one partner contributes capital but prefers not to be involved in daily operations, a limited partnership structure may be a better fit. Our team advises you on which option aligns with your arrangement and future plans.

Government fee: $60 CAD | Best for: Co-founders, family businesses, joint ventures

Ontario Corporation Registration (Provincial Incorporation)

Incorporating your business under the Ontario Business Corporations Act (OBCA) is the most powerful step you can take as a growing entrepreneur. Incorporation creates a separate legal entity  meaning your personal assets are protected from business debts and lawsuits, your business name is legally protected across Ontario, and you gain access to the small business corporate tax deduction.

We prepare and file your Articles of Incorporation, set up your corporate minute book, issue share certificates, and complete all required CRA registrations  all in one streamlined process.

Government fee: $300 CAD | Tax rate: 12.2% on first $500,000 active business income

Federal Incorporation — Canada-Wide Business Registration

If you plan to operate your business across multiple provinces or internationally, federal incorporation through Corporations Canada gives you national business name protection and unrestricted interprovincial mobility. A federally incorporated company can register in any province and is recognized throughout Canada.

This option is particularly popular with e-commerce businesses, technology companies, and service providers looking to expand beyond Ontario’s borders.

Government fee: $200 CAD online | Best for: National or international business expansion

CRA Business Number Registration

A Canada Revenue Agency Business Number (BN) is a 9-digit identifier that connects your business to all of your federal tax obligations. It is required for collecting and remitting GST/HST, running payroll, filing corporate income tax, and handling import/export transactions.

At Tax Square, we register your CRA Business Number and set up all necessary program accounts under a single appointment  including your GST/HST account, payroll deductions account, and corporate income tax account.

Professional Corporation Registration — Ontario

Are you a licensed physician, dentist, lawyer, accountant, engineer, or other regulated professional in Ontario? A Professional Corporation allows you to practice within your regulated field while benefiting from corporate tax rates, income splitting opportunities, and greater retirement planning flexibility.

Each regulatory body in Ontario  including the College of Physicians and Surgeons, the Law Society of Ontario, CPA Ontario, and Professional Engineers Ontario  has specific requirements for professional corporations. Our team is fully familiar with all of these requirements and ensures your registration is compliant from day one.

GST/HST Registration Ontario

Once your business earns more than $30,000 in annual revenue, GST/HST registration becomes mandatory under Canadian federal law. In Ontario, the harmonized sales tax (HST) rate is 13%. Businesses that register voluntarily before reaching this threshold can benefit from Input Tax Credits (ITCs)  allowing them to recover HST paid on business purchases.

We handle your GST/HST registration as part of our business setup service and advise you on how to properly track and remit HST to avoid CRA penalties.

Business Name Search & NUANS Report

Before incorporating federally, a Newly Upgraded Automated Name Search (NUANS) report is required to confirm that your proposed business name does not conflict with existing registered names or trademarks in Canada. We conduct thorough name searches and obtain your NUANS report quickly  typically within one business day.

MEET OUR FOUNDER

ADNAN KHAN

CEO and Founder of Tax Square, a highly qualified Certified Professional Accountant (CPA Canada & USA) and FCCA (UK) with over 15 years of experience delivering accounting, bookkeeping, and financial consulting services in Canada.

Professional Credentials & Global Memberships

Adnan is an active member of CPA Canada, AICPA (USA), CGMA (USA), and ACCA (UK). His qualifications reflect deep expertise in corporate tax services, financial reporting, and international compliance standards.

Extensive Experience & Diverse Clientele

With 15+ years of industry experience, Adnan supports small business accounting services, bookkeeping, and tax solutions for professionals, startups, and established companies throughout Canada. His work emphasizes tax efficiency, financial stability, and CRA compliance.

How to Register a Business in Ontario — Step by Step

Registering a business in Ontario does not have to be complicated. Here is a clear overview of the process when you work with Tax Square:

Step 1  Free Consultation We begin with a complimentary 30-minute consultation to understand your business goals, revenue projections, and long-term vision. Based on this conversation, we recommend the most suitable legal structure for your situation.

Step 2  Business Name Search We conduct a comprehensive name availability search through the Ontario Business Registry and, where applicable, obtain a NUANS report to confirm your chosen business name is available for registration.

Step 3  Government Filing We prepare and submit all registration documents on your behalf  whether that is a Master Business Licence for a sole proprietorship or Articles of Incorporation for a corporation. All filings are done through official government portals with accuracy guaranteed.

Step 4  CRA Business Number & Account Setup Once your business is registered, we immediately apply for your CRA Business Number and set up all required program accounts —GST/HST, payroll, and corporate income tax under one unified process.

Step 5  Corporate Documents (for Corporations) For incorporated businesses, we prepare your corporate minute book, share register, initial resolutions, and share certificates  the foundational legal documents every corporation in Ontario is required to maintain.

Step 6  Ongoing Accounting & Compliance Support Registration is just the beginning. We offer continuing support for bookkeeping, payroll management, annual corporate returns, and CRA compliance  so your business stays in good standing every year.

Sole Proprietorship vs. Corporation — Which Is Right for You?

This is the question we hear most often from entrepreneurs in Toronto and across Ontario. Here is an honest, straightforward comparison to help you decide.

Sole Proprietorship: Simple to set up and inexpensive to maintain. Your business income is added to your personal income and taxed at your marginal rate which in Ontario can reach 53.53% for high earners. There is no legal separation between you and your business, meaning personal assets are at risk if a client sues or a debt goes unpaid. This structure works well for those just starting out or testing a business concept with low financial risk.

Ontario Corporation: More complex to set up, but the financial and legal advantages are significant. Your business income is taxed at 12.2% (combined federal and provincial) on the first $500,000  a potential saving of tens of thousands of dollars annually compared to personal tax rates. Your personal assets are legally protected. You can raise investment capital by issuing shares. You can split income with family members who are shareholders. And your business can continue to operate even after ownership changes  giving it perpetual existence.

Most entrepreneurs earning more than $70,000 per year from their business find that the tax savings from incorporation far outweigh the cost of registration and ongoing corporate filings.

Business Structure Comparison — Ontario 2026

Feature Sole Proprietorship General Partnership Ontario Corporation Federal Corporation
Government Fee $60 $60 $300 $200
Personal Liability Unlimited Unlimited (shared) Limited ✓ Limited ✓
Corporate Tax Rate Personal rate (up to 53.53%) Personal rate 12.2% SBD ✓ 12.2% SBD ✓
Business Name Protection Province only Province only Province only National ✓
Can Issue Shares No No Yes ✓ Yes ✓
Annual Filing Required Business renewal Business renewal Annual Return Annual Return
Best For Freelancers, side income Co-founders Growth businesses Multi-province businesses

Why Choose Tax Square for Business Registration in Ontario?

There are many accounting firms in Toronto. Here is what makes Tax Square the right choice for business registration services in Ontario:

Adnan Khan — CPA Canada, CPA USA (AICPA/CGMA), FCCA (UK) 

Our founder brings over 15 years of hands-on experience in business registration, corporate tax planning, and financial consulting across Canada, the United States, and the United Kingdom. He holds active memberships with CPA Canada, the American Institute of CPAs, the Chartered Global Management Accountants, and the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants in the UK a level of credential depth that is exceptionally rare in Ontario.

We Handle Everything You Focus on Your Business 

From your business name search to your first CRA filing, Tax Square manages the entire registration process. You never have to navigate confusing government portals, decipher CRA correspondence, or wonder if a form was filled out correctly.

Fast, Accurate, and Fully CRA-Compliant

 All registrations are completed through official government channels. We double-check every document before submission to ensure accuracy and avoid processing delays.

Remote-Friendly Service Across Ontario You do not have to visit our office in person. We serve clients across Toronto, Mississauga, Brampton, Markham, Vaughan, Hamilton, Ottawa, and throughout Ontario  fully online when needed.

Multilingual Support We serve clients in English, Urdu, and other languages  making our services accessible to Toronto’s incredibly diverse entrepreneurial community.

Transparent Pricing  No Hidden Fees

 You will receive a clear quote before any work begins. No surprises. No add-on charges you did not agree to.

Areas We Serve for Business Registration in Ontario

Tax Square provides business registration and accounting services across the Greater Toronto Area and throughout Ontario, including:

  • Business Registration Toronto
  • Business Registration Mississauga
  • Business Registration Brampton
  • Business Registration Markham
  • Business Registration Vaughan
  • Business Registration Scarborough
  • Business Registration Oakville
  • Business Registration Burlington
  • Business Registration Hamilton
  • Business Registration Ottawa
  • Business Registration — All of Ontario

TESTIMONIALS

What People Say About Us?

A

Adam Horage

Google
★★★★★

The service is amazing and very professional. I have been dealing with Tax Square Professional for a couple of years and I truly appreciate Mr. Adnan and his team for the good services. Also the free parking was a big plus. I strongly recommend this office for all taxes, bookkeeping & payroll.

A

Amirpouyan Harandi

Google
★★★★★

I highly recommend Source Accounting for their professional accounting and financial services. Very reliable and responsive team.

K

Kiran Abbas

Google
★★★★★

Happy with the accounting services provided. The team is professional, efficient and always helpful. Highly satisfied with the service.

Frequently Asked Questions

 

1. How do I register a business in Ontario in 2026?

Registering a business in Ontario involves three core steps. First, choose your business structure  whether that is a sole proprietorship, general partnership, or corporation. Second, register your business name or file Articles of Incorporation through the Ontario Business Registry at ontario.ca/businessregistry. Third, register with the Canada Revenue Agency to obtain your Business Number and set up program accounts for GST/HST, payroll, and corporate income tax. When you work with Tax Square, we take care of all three stages on your behalf accurately, efficiently, and in full compliance with CRA requirements.

2. What is the cost of business registration in Toronto, Ontario?

The government fees for registering a business in Ontario depend entirely on the structure you choose. A sole proprietorship or general partnership name registration costs $60 through the Ontario Business Registry and remains valid for five years before renewal. Incorporating provincially under the Ontario Business Corporations Act costs $300. Federal incorporation through Corporations Canada costs $200 when filed online. Professional accounting fees from Tax Square are charged in addition to government fees  contact us for a complete, transparent quote with no hidden charges.

3. Do I need a CRA Business Number to operate a business in Ontario?

In most cases, yes. A CRA Business Number is required if your business collects HST (mandatory once you earn more than $30,000 annually), employs staff, or handles import and export activity. Even if your revenue is below the HST threshold, having a Business Number establishes your business credibility and gives you access to government programs, grants, and supplier relationships that require formal business credentials. Tax Square registers your BN as a standard part of our business setup service.

4. What is the difference between a sole proprietorship and a corporation in Ontario?

The three most important differences are liability, taxation, and long-term flexibility. A sole proprietorship offers no legal separation between you and your business  your personal assets are exposed to business risk, and all income is taxed at your personal marginal rate, which can exceed 53% in Ontario. A corporation is a legally independent entity that shields your personal finances, pays corporate income tax at a significantly reduced rate of 12.2% on the first $500,000 of active income, and can raise capital by issuing shares. For most entrepreneurs earning $70,000 or more annually from their business, incorporation delivers tax savings that easily justify the registration and maintenance costs.

5. How long does business registration take in Ontario?

The timeline depends on the structure. A sole proprietorship or partnership name registration through the Ontario Business Registry is typically processed within one to three business days. Provincial incorporation generally takes three to five business days. Federal incorporation through Corporations Canada takes a similar amount of time. CRA Business Number registration is usually confirmed within one to three business days after submission. With Tax Square managing your registration, all documents are prepared correctly before submission to prevent delays caused by errors or missing information.

Ready to Register Your Business in Ontario? Let’s Talk.

You have worked hard to get to this point. Now let’s make sure your business is built on a solid legal and financial foundation from day one.

Book your free 30-minute consultation with one of our CPAs today. We will review your situation, explain your best options in plain language, and give you a clear roadmap to get your Ontario business registered and operational — without the stress.

📞 Call: 647-400-2709 📧 Email: info@taxsquarepc.ca 🌐 Visit: taxsquarepc.ca 📍 Serving Toronto, Mississauga, Brampton, Markham, Vaughan & all of Ontario

Resources & Calculators

Useful Resources for Tax Planning in Canada (2026)

Explore tools and resources designed to support tax planning, financial management, and smarter business decisions.

Payroll Deductions Calculator

Use our Payroll Deductions Calculator Canada to calculate federal, provincial (except Quebec), and territorial deductions accurately. This tool helps with payroll processing, payroll tax compliance, and employee salary calculations.

Past Service Pension Adjustment Calculator

This calculator helps you determine pension adjustments using basic and modified methods, supporting effective retirement planning and employee benefits management in Canada.

Child & Family Benefits Calculator

Estimate your eligible payments with this tool built for tax planning Canada, financial management, and government benefit calculations.

Automobile Benefits Calculator

Quickly calculate employee vehicle benefits with a tool designed for payroll reporting, CRA compliance, and employee benefit calculations in Canada.