Ontario Trade Name Registration: Everything You Need to Know

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Starting a business in Ontario often requires more than just an idea—it also means making your brand official. If you plan to operate your business under a name different from your own legal name or your corporation’s registered name, you must complete a trade name registration in Ontario.

This process is commonly referred to as registering a business name, and it’s an important step for compliance, branding, and credibility.

What Is a Trade Name?

A trade name, also called a business name, is the name you use to operate your business that is different from your personal legal name or incorporated name. For example:

  • If Jane Smith runs a consulting business as “Smith Consulting Services,” she must register the trade name.
  • If a corporation named “123456 Ontario Inc.” operates as “Bright Ideas Marketing,” it also needs to register that trade name.

Why Register a Trade Name in Ontario?

Registering a trade name is required under the Business Names Act in Ontario. Some key reasons include:

  1. Legal Compliance – It’s mandatory to register if you use any name other than your personal or corporate name.
  2. Professional Image – Clients trust a registered business more than an unregistered one.
  3. Banking Purposes – Many banks require proof of name registration to open a business account.
  4. Brand Recognition – Helps you build a strong and recognizable brand.

Important: Registering a trade name does not give you exclusive rights to that name. To protect your brand, you may also want to consider registering a trademark.

Who Needs to Register?

You must register a trade name if you are:

  • A sole proprietor using a business name other than your personal name.
  • A partnership operating under a chosen name.
  • A corporation conducting business under a name different from the legal corporate name.

How to Register a Trade Name in Ontario

1. Check Name Availability

Before registering, search the Ontario Business Registry (OBR) or use a NUANS report to make sure your name isn’t already taken or too similar to an existing one.

2. Prepare Your Information

You’ll need:

  • Proposed business name
  • Business owner’s full name(s)
  • Business address and contact information
  • Type of business structure (sole proprietorship, partnership, or corporation)

3. File the Registration

You can register:

  • Online through the Ontario Business Registry (fastest method)
  • By mail by submitting a completed form
  • In person at ServiceOntario centres

4. Pay the Fee

As of 2025, the registration fee is $60 online or $80 by mail or in person.

5. Receive Your Master Business Licence (MBL)

Once approved, you’ll get a Master Business Licence, which acts as proof of your trade name registration.

How Long Is a Trade Name Registration Valid?

A trade name registration in Ontario is valid for 5 years. You must renew it before the expiry date to keep it active. Failure to renew means your name will no longer be legally registered.

Key Takeaways

  • Registering a trade name in Ontario is required if you operate under any name other than your own legal or corporate name.
  • It gives your business credibility and allows you to open business bank accounts.
  • Registration lasts for 5 years and must be renewed.
  • Trade name registration doesn’t give exclusive rights—consider a trademark for stronger protection.

Final Tip: If you’re just starting your business in Ontario Trade Name Registration is one of the first steps toward building a professional brand and operating legally.

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