Getting an Ontario Business Number: How and Why?

ByLaura Harvey
Obtain an Ontario Business Number

Starting a business in Ontario requires several critical steps, with obtaining an Ontario business number being one of the most vital. This unique identifier is essential for any business, including registered charities and corporations, intending to participate in activities regulated by government programs in Canada. Whether you’re incorporating, hiring employees, managing GST/HST taxes, or dealing with corporate tax income, understanding the importance and functionality of this number is crucial. This blog outlines how to obtain and utilize your Ontario business number to facilitate business operations.

What is an Ontario Business Number? 

A business number in Ontario is a unique nine-digit identifier provided by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). It serves as a federal identifier, streamlining your business’s interactions with national government programs, including GST/HST, payroll, and corporate tax. Whether your business is a sole proprietorship, general partnership, or business incorporated, the business number ensures efficient and accurate communication with federal authorities and government programs. 

It’s vital to understand the difference between the business number and the Ontario Business Identification Number (which is issued by Ontario Ministry of Consumer and Business Services), which serves a separate purpose and is used specifically for provincial matters. With a business number, you can ensure efficient and accurate communication with federal authorities, improving your business’s compliance and streamlined access to essential programs.

Why Do You Need an Ontario Business Number?

Securing an Ontario business number is essential for establishing your business as a legal entity equipped to efficiently manage various government obligations in Canada. This includes responsibilities related to corporate income tax, payroll, and import/export activities. Moreover, possessing a business number serves as a foundation for numerous administrative processes, enhancing your business’s credibility and supporting its success. Here’s why obtaining a business registration number is essential:

  • Regulatory Compliance: A business number is crucial for adhering to CRA regulations, particularly if your business manages importing/exporting, hiring staff, or handling GST/HST tax obligations.
  • Streamlined Processes: The business number simplifies complex tasks like tax filings and payroll deductions, ensuring effective management.
  • Professional Credibility: It reinforces your business’s professional image and compliance, making it credible to government authorities, partners, and customers.
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How to Get a Business Number in Ontario?

Securing an Ontario business number is a key step in establishing your business operations. Follow these steps for a smooth registration process:

  1. Determine Eligibility: Verify if your business qualifies for a CRA business number. This is typically required for businesses planning to incorporate or register for CRA accounts like GST/HST (for tax collection), payroll (for employee management), or import/export (for international trade).
  2. Gather Necessary Information: Before registering, ensure you have all the required personal and business details:
    • Social Insurance Number (SIN)
    • Business name and registration details
    • Personal information like address and date of birth
    • Description of your business activity and structure
  3. Choose a Registration Method:
    • Online: Register quickly through the Ontario Business Central (OBC) portal for immediate processing.
    • By Phone: Call the CRA at 1-800-959-5525 to receive step-by-step guidance and complete registration over the phone.
    • Mail or Fax: Fill out and submit an RC1 form to the physical address of your nearest tax services office if you prefer a traditional registration process.

What Are the Key CRA Program Accounts?

After securing your business number in Ontario, you’ll likely need to register for various CRA program accounts based on your business operations:

  • GST/HST Program: Register if your business collects and remits taxes from customers.
  • Payroll Account: Sign up if your business has employees who need payroll management.
  • Import/Export: Obtain this account to comply with import/export trade requirements.
  • Corporate Tax: Register for this account if your business is incorporated.

These accounts will help ensure your business adheres to federal regulations and effectively manages its tax, payroll, and trade obligations.

Addressing the Common Questions About Business Numbers

  1. Is a CRA business number the same as a business registration number?
    No, they serve different purposes and are issued by different authorities. The CRA business number is for federal interactions, while the business registration number typically applies to provincial matters.
  2. How long does it take to get a business number in Ontario?
    The timeframe can vary. Online registration via the CRA is immediate, while phone or mail registrations can take several days to process.
  3. Is business name registration required to get a business number in Ontario?
    Not necessarily. A business name registration is required if your business name differs from your personal name or if it’s a general partnership or corporation. Otherwise, businesses operating under your personal name may not need to register separately.
  4. How do you get business number for a registered business?
    For a registered business, you’ll need to provide the necessary information, including the existing business name, type of business, and Social Insurance Number (SIN). Register online via the CRA’s Business Registration Online (BRO) portal or call 1-800-959-5525 to complete the process. Alternatively, fill out an RC1 form and submit it to the CRA by mail or fax.

Strategic Value of Securing an Ontario Business Number

Securing an Ontario business number is not just a bureaucratic step; it’s a strategic move toward establishing a solid foundation for your business operations. Compliance with Canada Revenue Agency requirements avoids potential legal pitfalls and streamlines many aspects of business administration. For more details on managing your business efficiently and compliantly, visit Ontario Business Central, which offers dedicated resources for entrepreneurs and business owners. Ontario Business Central supports every step of your entrepreneurial journey, whether you just want to register your business, search the registry for business numbers or looking to expand your existing business.

inquiries@ontariobusinesscentral.ca
Toll-Free: 1-800-280-1913
Local: 1-416-599-9009
Fax: 1-866-294-4363
Office Hours: 9:00am – 5:00pm
Monday – Friday E.S.T.

Ontario Business Central Inc. is not a law firm and cannot provide a legal opinion or advice. This information is to assist you in understanding the requirements of registration within the chosen jurisdiction. It is always recommended, when you have legal or accounting questions that you speak to a qualified professional.

Laura Harvey
Laura Harvey

Laura Harvey stands as a beacon of entrepreneurial support and expertise, embodying the spirit and drive of the community she serves. As the proud owner of Ontario Business Central Inc., Laura's journey is one of dedication, passion, and an unwavering commitment to nurturing the entrepreneurial landscape in Canada.

With over three decades of experience as a corporate specialist coupled with over 25 years of entrepreneurial ventures, Laura brings a wealth of knowledge and insight to her role. Her expertise is not just theoretical; it's built on the real-life challenges and triumphs of navigating the business world. This unique blend of professional and personal experience positions Laura as a relatable and trusted guide for those embarking on their entrepreneurial journey.

Beyond her role at Ontario Business Central, Laura has extended her outreach through the innovative YouTube series "Taking the Leap." This platform allows her to connect with new business owners, offering them a stage to share their stories and insights. "Taking the Leap" is more than just a series; it's a community where aspiring entrepreneurs can find inspiration, learn from the experiences of others, and gain practical advice on crucial corporate tasks like registering a business, updating business information, understanding tax account intricacies, and much more.

Laura's contributions extend into the digital world through her in-depth blogs for Ontario Business Central. Here, she delves into topics essential for entrepreneurs and business owners looking to start, manage, and grow their ventures. Her writing is a reflection of her passion for supporting entrepreneurial advancement and a testament to her deep understanding of the corporate sphere.

Laura Harvey is not just an entrepreneur; she's a mentor, guide, and fellow traveler on the path of business ownership. She embodies the ethos of "walking the walk," providing both the tools and the encouragement for others to thrive in their entrepreneurial endeavors. Whether through her written words, her YouTube series, or her hands-on approach at Ontario Business Central Inc., Laura is dedicated to uplifting and assisting new and established business owners alike.

You can follow her on social media channels and professional profiles:

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Taking The Leap YouTube Series