If you operate a business with a name that is different than your personal legal name, then you must register the business name with the Province of Ontario.

A Master Business Licence confirms that a business name has been submitted to the Ontario Ministry of Services, Companies, and Personal Property Security Branch for registration on the public record.  It includes the registration and expiry dates, as well as the Business Identification Number.  This license can also be used as proof of registration for a business name at financial institutions and is required to set-up a business bank account.  You can register for the Master Business Licence as a sole proprietor, general or limited partnership, or under an existing corporation.

The Master Business Licence has a fee of $60 and must be renewed every five years.  The fee is payable by credit card only using an online process.  To register for a Master Business License visit Ontario Business Connects or meet with a team member of The Business Enterprise Centre who can guide you through the process and answer any questions you may have.