How Much Does it Cost to Incorporate in Ontario?
Originally Published: Jan 25, 2018
Starting a corporation in Ontario? Understanding the cost to incorporate in Ontario is an important first step. While the government filing fee is the most obvious expense, other costs can come up along the way. We’ll break down these expenses and show how Ontario Business Central can help make the process easy with our wide range of services.
The Government Fee to Incorporate in Ontario
The base cost to file Articles of Incorporation with the Ontario government is $300. This fee applies whether you complete the process directly through the province or work with an intermediary.
However, this filling cost in Ontario is only one part of the cost to get incorporated. Several other factors and optional services can impact the overall cost of incorporation in Ontario.
Related Costs of Incorporating in Ontario
Setting up a corporation in Ontario involves more than just paying the government fee. When exploring how much it is to incorporate in Ontario, it’s essential to consider the total business incorporation cost. Additional costs when starting a business include:
Preliminary Name Searches & NUANS Reports
A critical step in incorporating a business in Ontario is ensuring your desired business name is unique and available. Named incorporations require a NUANS (Newly Upgraded Automated Name Search) report. NUANS reports are also mandatory for Federally incorporated businesses. Ontario Business Central offers this service as part of our incorporation packages to help save you time and ensure accuracy.
Legal & Professional Fees
If your business structure is complex, you might need help from a lawyer or accountant to register a business. They can assist with drafting documents like a shareholders agreement and ensure your incorporation meets tax laws. Legal fees can vary widely, starting at a few hundred dollars and reaching into the thousands. These costs are in addition to the incorporation fees in Ontario and depend on the specific services you require.
Annual Returns & Compliance Requirements
Once your business is incorporated in Ontario, you’ll need to file annual returns with the Ontario government. While the fee for annual returns is relatively small, failure to comply can result in penalties or dissolution of your corporation. This holds true for Federal corporations as well.
Trade Names or Secondary Business Names
If your corporation plans to operate under a name different from its legal name, you’ll need to register a trade name. This comes with a separate fee, which can vary depending on the province. Trade names are valid for 5 years before they need to be renewed.
Corporate Supplies
An often overlooked cost when incorporating a business in Ontario is the need for corporate supplies. These supplies are essential for keeping your corporation organized and compliant with legal requirements. A common item is a corporate minute book. It helps organize documents like your articles of incorporation, shareholder agreements, and meeting minutes.
Additionally, you may need corporate seals, share certificates, and specialized stationery for formal business communications. While these costs are not mandatory to operate, they provide a professional edge and ensure that all necessary records are properly maintained.
At Ontario Business Central, we offer high-quality corporate supplies tailored to your needs, making it easy to stay on top of your business obligations. Let us help you set up your corporation with everything you need to succeed.
Setting Up a Corporate Tax Account
Incorporation comes with tax advantages, but you’ll need to set up accounts for HST or payroll if they apply to your business. Ontario Business Central can help make this process easier and ensure it’s done correctly.
Other Related Costs
- Business Plans: Developing a comprehensive business plan may incur additional costs if you hire a professional.
- Shareholder Agreements: Drafting a detailed agreement to outline ownership and responsibilities is an optional but important expense.
Why Work With Ontario Business Central?
Ontario Business Central makes incorporating a business in Ontario easier by offering a range of services designed to save you time and effort. Here’s how we can help:
Streamlined Incorporation Process
We handle the entire incorporation process, from filing your Articles of Incorporation to assisting with your NUANS report. Our process ensures compliance and accuracy, reducing the risk of delays or errors. This will help with the overall cost of setting up a business.
Preliminary Name Searches
Our NUANS name reservation service checks for potential conflicts. This ensures your chosen name is available, giving you peace of mind.
Additional Services
Beyond incorporation, we assist with:
- Annual Returns: Stay compliant by letting us manage your yearly filing.
- Trade Name Registration: Easily add a secondary business name to your corporation.
- Tax Account Setup: Ensure you’re ready for HST, payroll, or other tax requirements.
- Extra-Provincial Licenses: Assist with additional province or territory registrations.
Expert Support
Our team has over 30 years of experience and offers personalized support to help you with incorporation and beyond. Whether you need help filing a NUANS report or understanding compliance requirements, we’re here to assist.
Benefits of Incorporating a Business in Ontario
While there are costs associated with incorporation, the benefits often outweigh the expenses:
Limited Liability Protection
Incorporating separates your personal assets from your business liabilities, offering you protection in case of financial trouble. This protects your personal savings, home, or other assets if the business incurs debts or faces legal issues. By creating a separate legal entity, incorporation provides peace of mind as you grow your business.
Tax Benefits
Corporations often enjoy significant tax advantages compared to sole proprietorships or partnerships. These benefits can include lower tax rates on business income, which can save your company money over time.
Professional Credibility
Operating as a corporation can make your business appear more professional and established. This credibility can help attract more clients, secure better deals with suppliers, and build trust with investors. The corporate status signals long-term commitment and reliability, setting your business apart in a competitive market.
Access to Capital
Incorporation makes it easier to raise funds through the sale of shares or by securing loans. This extra funding gives you the flexibility to expand, buy equipment, or hire employees.
Typical Costs of Incorporating in Ontario
Let’s review the typical costs you might encounter when setting up a corporation:
- Government Filing Fee: $300
- NUANS Report: Reserves your chosen business name.
- Legal or Professional Fees: Varies based on your needs.
- Annual Return Fees: Updates government records yearly.
- Trade Name Registration: Optional registration for operating under a name different.
How to Get Started
If you’re ready to incorporate a business in Ontario, Ontario Business Central is here to help. Our seamless online portal allows you to:
- Conduct preliminary name searches.
- File your Articles of Incorporation online.
- Register trade names or manage compliance filings.
With transparent pricing and dedicated support, we’ll ensure your incorporation journey is as smooth as possible.
Final Thoughts
If you’re wondering how to open a corporation in Ontario, knowing the cost to incorporate in Ontario is essential. The government filing fee is a large part of Ontario incorporation fees, but there are other costs to consider. Ontario Business Central is here to simplify your journey. Our wide range of services ensure a smooth and hassle-free incorporation experience.
With Ontario Business Central, you can access everything you need to start and grow your business. Ready to get started? Contact us today and take the first step toward incorporation!
inquiries@ontariobusinesscentral.ca
Toll-Free: 1-800-280-1913
Local: 1-416-599-9009
Fax: 1-866-294-4363
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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.
