Open for your tax accounts with CorpCentre
We take the hassle of getting your CRA Business Number (BN), GST, HST, QST and payroll accounts
- Starts at $50
Key Tax Accounts with the CRA
Business Number (BN)
- What it is: A unique 9-digit identifier for your business with the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA).
- When to get it: As soon as you're ready to open other CRA program accounts (like GST/HST or payroll).
GST/HST Account
- What it is: Allows your business to charge, collect, and remit Goods and Services Tax (GST) or Harmonized Sales Tax (HST).
- When it’s required:
- If your total taxable revenues exceed $30,000 in a single calendar quarter or in four consecutive quarters (small supplier threshold).
- If you anticipate exceeding this, it’s wise to register early. Voluntary registration: Even below the threshold, voluntary registration allows you to claim input tax credits (ITCs) on business expenses.
Payroll Deductions Account
- What it is: Needed if you hire employees. It lets you remit:
- Federal income tax
- Canada Pension Plan (CPP) contributions
- Employment Insurance (EI) premiums - When to register: As soon as you hire your first employee (even part-time or family members).
Corporate Income Tax Account
- What it is: Used for filing corporate income tax returns (T2).
- When it's created: Automatically when you incorporate your business federally or provincially.
Who needs it: Only incorporated businesses — not sole proprietors or partnerships.
Provincial Considerations
Some provinces require additional registrations:
- Quebec: Businesses must register separately with Revenu Québec for GST, QST, payroll, and corporate tax.
- British Columbia, Ontario, Alberta, etc.: May require provincial business numbers, licenses, or registrations.
Ready to start your corporation?
File your incorporation with CorpCentre, Canada’s leading national filing service
Get a DBA Registration
Your business name is your brand. Apply for a “doing business as” (DBA) name and make yours memorable.
Starts at $49 + filing fees.
Manage your Company with Ease
Several important differences between a corporation and a DBA
Corporate Compliance
Plan
$199 per year
Keep your corporation compliant and ensure your corporation’s filings, updates and legally required documentation is done right with CorpCentre. Opt-out anytime.
Digital Minute Book and eSignatures
Plan
$199 per year
CorpCentre’s Digital Minute Book has your corporation’s documents always available in a secure environment that can be shared with bankers, lawyers, investors or others. You can also have all corporate documents signed via eSignatures. Never lose your minute book again! Opt-out anytime.
To find out more about which business structure is best for your click here.