Registering Your Master Business Licence

ByLaura Harvey
new businesswoman owner at cafe

Ontario Business Central has been assisting individuals to register their business for over 20 years. From speaking with the consumers, we have compiled commonly asked questions about how to register and what the process entails. We offer this information to help you register.

Sample Master Business LicenceIt is a quick and easy process that allows you to operate a business, open a bank account, use name for marketing (storefront, business cards…). You are allowed to use the name as it is registered. This type of business registration does NOT have name protection. Since the MBL does not have name protection we recommend pre-searching the name in the Nuans databank (a service we offer), to ensure you are not infringing on a Corporation or Trademark that has name protection.

Under the Ontario Business Names Act, you must register your business name if operating under any other name but your first and last name, (ex: Roger’s Designs). Even in the event of using your personal name for the business, people will register their personal name for the business to gain access to wholesale pricing or discounts from suppliers.(ex: Roger Smith)

A Master Business Licence is a registration that is valid for 5 years. Before the end of the 5 year term, you are required to renew your licence.

Often clients refer to the Master Business Licence as different names. Noted below are some of the commonly used terminologies:

What is required to register your Master Business Licence?

Tradenames also require the following

Why register a Master Business Licence?

  • Quick turnaround time
  • Simple registration
  • File with personal taxes
  • Inexpensive to set up

Who do we see registering Master Business Licences?

  • Individuals who are not concerned about name protection of business name
  • Individuals who are not concerned about personal liability risk
  • Business revenues typically of lower income (under 80K)
  • Looking to operate different businesses from their corporate name

Things to think about after registering?

How long does it take to be registered?

Registering a new Master Business Licence is available Monday-Friday (excluding holidays) on a same day basis if ordered before 3pm. Should the order be submitted after this timeframe, it will be processed next business morning.

Renewal of a current Master Business Licence typically takes 3-5 business days. We process the day it is submitted, however the registration goes through a clearing house for renewal approval. Once received, we email the document to you.

Should you wish to, Ontario business Central offers the ability to register your Business as a Master Business Licence.

Get Your Master Business Licence

If we can be of assistance, please feel free to reach out to our staff for any clarification or assistance you may require.

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 find Laura on Linkedin and Twitter and Youtube.

https://twitter.com/ONTBUSCEN
https://www.linkedin.com/in/laura-harvey-362b2740/
Taking The Leap YouTube Series