If you’ve just started your own business in Ontario, congrats! Starting and running a business comes with a lot of paperwork, and one of the most important identifiers you’ll need is your Business Number (BN). Your BN is a 9-digit number issued by the CRA (Canada Revenue Agency) and is used for tax purposes, government filings, and business transactions. Having a business number is essential, especially when you register for GST/HST, payroll, or corporate taxes.
If you’re struggling to find your business number or perhaps unsure if you even have one, you’re definitely in the right place! In this blog, we’ll take a look at where and how to find your Business Number in Ontario. Let’s dive right in!
What Is a BN and Why Do You Need It?
A Business Number is a unique nine-digit identifier issued by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) to businesses and organizations. It simplifies interactions with government agencies by linking different tax accounts, such as GST/HST, payroll, import/export, and corporate income tax, under a single number.
If you’re starting a business in Canada, you may need a BN to register for these programs. For example, if your revenue exceeds $30,000 annually, you must register for a GST/HST account. Similarly, if you hire employees, you’ll need a payroll deductions account.
Having a BN makes it easier to apply for business licenses, government funding, or open a business bank account. Even sole business owners such as Freelancers, often benefit from registering.
When You Need A BN
A Business Number is essential when registering your business in Ontario. You need a BN if you plan to incorporate, open a business bank account, or deal with the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) for taxes like GST/HST, payroll, or import/export.
Sole business owners such as Freelancers or Contractors may not always need one, but corporations, partnerships, and non-profits typically do. A BN simplifies interactions with the CRA and helps you stay in compliance with federal and provincial tax requirements. If you’re hiring employees, applying for business permits, or working with federal contracts, a BN is necessary.
If you are a freelancer, operating under your own name and you do not have any employees, you don’t need a business number. So if you are a freelancer, keep this in mind.
Requirements For a BN
In order to obtain a business number, you’ll have to meet certain requirements laid out by the government. To obtain a BN, you need to provide a few basic details such as:
- Legal Name of the Business
- Operating/Trade Name
- Business Structure (e.g., sole proprietorship, partnership, corporation, trust)
- Date of Business Registration or Start Date
- Description of Business Activities
- Social Insurance Number (SIN) (if registering as a sole proprietor)
- Federal Corporation Number (if incorporated, obtained from Corporations Canada)
- Partnership Agreement (if applicable)
- Trust Document (if registering as a trust)
- Physical Business Address
- Mailing Address (if different)
- Business Phone Number
- Email Address
- GST/HST Account (required if your revenue exceeds $30,000 in a 12-month period)
- Payroll Deductions Account (if you plan to hire employees)
- Import/Export Account (if you import or export goods)
- Corporate Income Tax Account (if incorporated)
How To Apply For a BN
You can register for a Business Number (BN) with the CRA using one of the following methods:
- Online: Through the Business Registration Online (BRO) portal (CRA website)
- By Phone: Call the CRA at 1-800-959-5525 (for businesses)
- By Mail or Fax: Complete Form RC1 – Request for a Business Number and submit it to your local tax services office
Where to Check for Your Business Number
If you’re sure you have a business number but you just can’t find it, you’re in luck! It’s rather easy to find it, especially if you have one.
Check Your Paperwork
Start by checking official CRA documents, including tax returns, registration confirmations, or correspondence from the government. Your BN should be listed at the top of the document with your and your business’s name.
Check Online
You can also log in to the Ontario Business Registry which is free and easy to use. You’ll need to log in by going to the official Ontario Business Registry website. Once you’re there, click on “Access the Ontario Business Registry” and then input your account credentials (if you don’t have an account, you’ll need to create one.)
Once you’re logged in, you’ll locate the “Search for a Business or Not-for-Profit Corporation” option. Enter your business name, registration number, or other relevant details in the search bar.
Finally, your business information including your BN will be available to write down or copy.
Contact The CRA’s Business Line
If you’re unable to access your information online or if you still have further questions, you can always contact the CRA’s Business Enquiries line at 1-800-959-5525 for additional assistance if needed.
FAQ’s
Can I Find My Business Number Using My Business Name?
No, the CRA does not offer a public BN search by business name. However, if your business is incorporated, you may find related details in the Ontario Business Registry.
Is My Business Number The Same As My CRA Account Number?
Your Business Number (BN) is the foundation of your CRA accounts. It’s your federal business account number and is the same as your CRA Account Number.
Do I Need a Business Number For a Numbered Company?
Yes, even if your Ontario corporation has a numbered name (e.g., 1234567 Ontario Inc.), it still requires a Business Number for tax and regulatory purposes.
What Documents Typically Include My Business Number?
Your BN appears on CRA correspondence, tax filings, business registration confirmation, and HST/GST returns.
Will My BN Change If I Move My Business To a Different Province?
No, your BN stays the same even if you operate in different provinces. However, you may need to register your business in the province you’re relocating to.
What If My Business Has Multiple Locations, Do I Need Multiple BNs?
No, a business has only one BN, but you may need different CRA program accounts for different locations (e.g., separate payroll accounts).
Is My Business Number The Same As My Ontario Master Business License Number?
No, the Ontario Master Business License (MBL) number is different from the BN. The MBL is issued by the provincial government, while the BN is issued by the CRA.
What Should I Do If My Business Is Registered Under Multiple Names?
Your Business Number remains the same, but different trade names may require additional registrations under your existing BN.
Overview
Finding your business number (BN) is a rather easy and straightforward process. So if you’ve lost your business number, don’t worry! It’s super easy to retrieve it whether on your own or with the help of the CRA.
