Self-employment and Registering a Small Business: Official Federal Guide

Self-employment and Registering a Small Business: Official Federal Guide

This article is based on the official Government of Canada website (Canada.ca) and outlines the steps to consider before operating a business in Canada. The page is maintained by Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada and the Canada Revenue Agency, and applies to all provinces and territories.

Official Steps to Start a Business

The government lists six steps:

1. Planning a business: Assess your readiness, choose a business structure, conduct market research, and write a business plan.
2. Choosing a business name: Select a good name, check if it's taken, register and protect it.
3. Registering your business with the government: Register or incorporate, and apply for a business number or tax account.
4. Applying for business permits and licences: You may need permits and licences from all three levels of government.
5. Getting business support and financing: National and regional support, including financing for immigrant and Indigenous entrepreneurs.
6. Free tax help for your business: Meet with a liaison officer to learn about common errors, bookkeeping best practices, and deductions.

Registration and Business Number

In step 3, the official page mentions registering or incorporating and applying for a business number or tax account. The business number is used by the CRA for tax purposes, but specific application details are not provided on this page.

Permits and Licences

The official page states that you may need permits and licences from all three levels of government, but does not list specific ones.

Tax Help

The government offers free tax help where you can meet with a liaison officer. Details on how to book are not on this page.

Other Services

The page also lists "Most requested" services, including support for business innovation, creating a federal corporation, registering for a business number, immigrant start-up visas, self-employed immigrants, and business statistics.

Official Sources

• Starting a business - Canada.ca

Note: This article is for information only and does not constitute advice. Always refer to the official government website for the most current information.