Where'd My Bin Number Go? A Hilarious Hunt for Your Ontario Business Identity (Because Let's Face It, Numbers Are Hard)
Ever stared blankly at a form demanding your Ontario Business Number (BIN), feeling a cold sweat prickle your brow? You're not alone, my friend. Those nine (or ten!) digits can feel like a government conspiracy, strategically placed to trip you up during your morning coffee run. But fear not, intrepid business owner (or enthusiastic hobbyist with a side hustle)! This guide will be your hilarious compass on the quest to unearth your elusive BIN.
How To Find My Bin Number Ontario |
Hunting in the Usual Haunts: The Paper Chase
- The Master Business License (MBL) Files: Remember that dusty folder overflowing with permits and registrations? It might be hiding the answer, disguised as a ten-digit number for registrations after October 19th, 2021, or a nine-digit number for registrations before that.
- The Taxman Cometh (or Rather, The Canada Revenue Agency): If you've ever tangled with the CRA (Canada Revenue Agency), your BIN might be nestled amongst your tax documents.
Remember: These methods work best if you have an excellent memory and an organizational system that would make Marie Kondo weep with joy. For the rest of us, there's hope!
Calling in the Cavalry: Digital Digging
- The ServiceOntario Website: This government website allows you to search for your business information, potentially revealing your BIN number. Just be prepared to navigate a labyrinth of menus and legalese (it's like an online Ikea for permits!).
- The Company of Heroes (or Your Accountant): If you incorporated your business, your trusty accountant might have your precious BIN tucked away in their digital files.
Bonus Tip: If you're feeling fancy, some third-party services can help you track down your BIN for a fee (because who doesn't love paying to find a number the government assigned you?).
QuickTip: Look for lists — they simplify complex points.
Found It! Now What?
Congratulations, champion! You've wrestled the bureaucratic beast and emerged victorious with your BIN number. Now you can conquer that pesky form and get back to running your awesome business (or feeding your sourdough starter obsession, no judgment here).
Burning BIN Bonanza: Frequently Asked Questions
How to find my Ontario Business Number if I don't have my MBL?
QuickTip: Pause at transitions — they signal new ideas.
See the "Digital Digging" section above.
How to get a new Ontario Business Number?
QuickTip: Return to sections that felt unclear.
Contact the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA).
How to look up someone else's Ontario Business Number?
QuickTip: Keep a notepad handy.
The Ontario Business Registry allows basic searches, but privacy restrictions might apply.
How to avoid losing my Ontario Business Number again?
Store it securely in a digital file or keep a physical copy with your important documents.
How to make finding my Ontario Business Number less stressful?
Distract yourself by reading this very informative (and hilarious) guide again!
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