Business Registration and Renewal

Registering a new business online is easy and fast with the Integrated Business Services Application.

In a single online session, you can register or renew your business, and apply to the Ontario Ministry of Revenue for the Retail Sales Tax (RST) and Employer Health Tax (EHT), and to the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB).

If you are registering a new business online, you can request an electronic Master Business Licence (eMBL). You will receive your eMBL by e-mail in two business days – or your money-back! Please note that terms and conditions apply.

All other Master Business Licences, including business name renewals, are delivered by regular mail in 10 business days.

What is a Master Business Licence?

A Master Business Licence (MBL) is an official proof of your business name registration. The MBL can be used as proof of business name registration at financial institutions and to facilitate other business-related transactions with the Ontario government.

The electronic Master Business Licence is a digital copy of the licence. It is sent to you by e-mail in Adobe Portable Document Format (PDF). More.

How can I find out if a business name is already being used?

The Enhanced Business Name Search, available through the Integrated Business Services Application, enables you to search business names that are already registered. Searches can be done on exact business names, words in a business name or by the Ontario Business Identification Number. This service has specific hours of operation and additional fees apply. More.

How do I register for federal programs like the Goods and Services Tax?

Business Registration Online, a program of the Canada Revenue Agency, enables businesses to register for federal programs including Goods and Services Tax/Harmonized Sales Tax, payroll deductions, corporate income tax and import/export accounts. Consult Business Registration Online for more information.

What do I need to get started?

Before you begin, please ensure that you meet these technical requirements.

If you are registering or renewing a trade or style name for an existing corporation or for a general partnership with a corporate partner, you must also provide the corporate name and/or corporate number.

How much does it cost to register or renew a business name online?

The fee for a business name registration or renewal online is $60.00

How do I pay?

By credit card: VISA, MasterCard or American Express.

When can I register my business or renew my business name?

Business name registration applications can be submitted 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Where can I find more information about registering/renewing my business?

Consult our Frequently Asked Questions.