So Long, Farewell, and Thanks for All the Sales (or Maybe Not)? Unregistering Your Ontario Business
Ah, the bittersweet symphony of closing your Ontario business. Maybe it's time for a tropical vacation (finally!), or perhaps the entrepreneurial spirit has fizzled out like a sparkler on the 4th of July. Whatever the reason, you're here because you need to say "hasta la vista" to your provincial business registration. Don't worry, we'll get you through this bureaucratic tango with minimal tears (and hopefully no tax audits).
 |
| How Do I Unregister My Business In Ontario |
First Things First: Business or Corporation?
This, my friend, is the million-dollar question (well, maybe more like a twenty-five-dollar question, considering the filing fee). If you were a sole proprietorship, general partnership, or rocking a trade name, then congratulations! You get the "Speedy Gonzales" route of business cancellation.
If you were a full-fledged corporation, then buckle up for a slightly longer, but still totally doable, "Business Bon Voyage" process.
Important Note: Make sure you've settled any outstanding debts and informed your lovely customers (and those pesky creditors) that you're closing up shop. You don't want any surprise visits from the repo man while you're sipping margaritas on the beach.
Tip: Take your time with each sentence.
The "Speedy Gonzales" Method (For Sole Proprietorships, Partnerships, and Trade Names)
- Step 1: Hunt Down Your Business Name Registration Number (BNR) - This magical number is like your business passport, so find it on your original registration documents.
- Step 2: Channel Your Inner Internet Ninja - Head over to the ServiceOntario website and find the "Business Name Registration Cancellation" form. Fill it out with ninja-like precision, making sure your BNR is nice and comfy in its designated spot.
- Step 3: Hit Submit and Bask in the Glory of Cancellation - That's it! You're officially unregistered. High fives all around!
Pro Tip: There's no fee for this method, so you can save those hard-earned loonies for your celebratory ice cream sundae.
The "Business Bon Voyage" Method (For Corporations)
- Step 1: Gather Your Supplies - You'll need the Articles of Dissolution form and a letter of consent from the Ministry of Revenue (think of it like a permission slip for business extinction).
- Step 2: Become a Form-Filling Extraordinaire - Fill out the Articles of Dissolution with the accuracy of a brain surgeon. Don't forget to include that letter of consent within 60 days of getting it - you wouldn't want your application to get lost in the bureaucratic Bermuda Triangle.
- Step 3: Send it Off with a Flourish (and a $25 Filing Fee) - Mail your completed forms (and that fee) to the Ministry of Public and Business Service Delivery. Consider this your official goodbye note to the corporate world.
Important Note: Don't forget to file your final tax return and close any CRA accounts associated with your corporation. You wouldn't want Uncle Sam (or should we say Uncle Canada?) knocking on your door.
FAQs
How to find my Business Name Registration Number (BNR)?
Tip: Don’t skip — flow matters.
Your BNR should be on your original business registration documents.
How long does it take to unregister a business name?
 |
It can take up there to 10 business days for the cancellation to be processed.
QuickTip: Break down long paragraphs into main ideas.
How do I close my CRA accounts?
You can contact the CRA directly or check out their website for instructions.
How do I know if I need to file a final tax return?
QuickTip: Don’t skim too fast — depth matters.
The CRA website has a handy guide to help you determine if you need to file a final return.
How do I avoid emotional breakdowns while unregistering my business?
Distract yourself with ice cream and funny cat videos. Trust us, it works.
 |
💡 This page may contain affiliate links — we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
