What is the Ontario Business Registry and How Can I Access It?
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Ontario Business Registry
The Ontario Business Registry (“OBR”) is a secure online platform that allows businesses to complete transactions online with the Ontario government, including incorporating and registering business names for sole proprietorships or partnerships. Once your business is incorporated, the OBR will allow you to complete additional filings online for your corporation, including filing Articles of Amendment, Articles of Dissolution, the Initial Return, Notices of Change and Annual Returns. The Ontario Business Registry is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
How to access the Ontario Business Registry
To access the Ontario Business Registry, you will need to register for a My Ontario Account, which can be done through the official OBR website. Once your account is created, you will be able to access the OBR.
To access your corporation’s profile, log in to your My Ontario Account and click on “Add a Profile,” providing the required information when prompted. Enter your corporation’s name or number in the search box, select the associated link, and enter your company key. You will then be able to access your corporation’s file.
For companies incorporated after October 19, 2021, a Company Key is automatically issued. For companies incorporated before this date or those who have misplaced their Company Key, a request can be made through the OBR. The Ontario Ministry will then send you the Company Key to either the official email address on file or the registered address associated with the corporation.
What information is listed in the Ontario Business Registry?
With access to your corporation’s profile, you can access detailed information surrounding the corporation, including the Ontario corporation number (OCN), business number, incorporation date, status, official email, and more. Furthermore, you have access to important details regarding the structure of your corporation including its address, director(s), officer(s), and any filed business name registrations.
Can I make any changes to my corporation through the Ontario Business Registry?
The Ontario Business Registry allows you to make various changes to your corporation, each requiring different filings, some of which may involve associated fees. To ensure that you are submitting accurate information and completing the correct filings, it is important to seek guidance from a lawyer.
Another available option is the business name registration, which allows your corporation to operate under another name. Prior to proceeding, consult with a lawyer to ensure that this is the correct option for your corporation’s goals.
Once you have completed your filings, documents related to your submission may be sent to your designated contact email or accessible under the filings tab in your corporation’s profile,
Can I order reports about my corporation through the Ontario Business Registry?
The Ontario Business Registry also allows you to order corporate reports. There are three different types: (1) Corporation Profile Report, (2) Document Copies, and (3) Certificate of Status. Select the desired report type and fill out the required information. You will receive your documents at the email you provided when ordering. If you require assistance when ordering reports for incorporation or renewal, Ordower Law is here to assist.
You can download our guide to access the Ontario Business Registry below.
At Ordower Law, we can help you with any filings or changes you would like complete for your corporation and ensure that you have the proper documentation to reflect these changes. For further information, please contact us using the form below.
