Our Services
Business Setup and Compliance
Starting a business the right way matters. We handle registrations, structure decisions, CRA account setup, and ongoing compliance so nothing slips through the cracks as you grow.
Why getting set up properly matters
Many business owners start operating before they have thought through the right structure, registered with the right government programs, or set up the right accounts. This often works fine in the short term — but it creates problems as the business grows. The wrong structure can cost you thousands in unnecessary taxes. Missing a registration can result in penalties. Neglecting annual filings can put the corporation itself at risk.
Whether you are launching something new or cleaning up a business that has been running informally, we help you get the foundation right. That means choosing the correct legal structure for your situation, registering with all the right government programs, and setting up a compliance routine that keeps everything current going forward.
We also work with established businesses that have outgrown their original structure and need to restructure without triggering unnecessary tax consequences. This kind of planning, done right, can save significant amounts over the long run.
What is included
- Business registration and incorporation support
- CRA account setup and management (GST/HST, payroll, corporate)
- Corporate annual returns and minute book reminders
- Business structure consulting (sole prop, partnership, corporation, holdco-opco)
- CRA correspondence and account management
- Compliance calendar and deadline management
How it works
We take you through each step — from structure decision to full registration and ongoing compliance.
01
We review your situation
Before recommending a structure, we need to understand your goals, your income level, your industry, and your risk profile. The right structure for one person is not necessarily right for another.
02
We recommend the right structure
Sole proprietor, partnership, corporation, or holding company — we explain the tax and liability implications of each option in plain language so you can make an informed decision.
03
We handle the registrations
We take care of federal and provincial registrations, CRA account setups for GST/HST, payroll, and corporate tax, and any other filings needed to get your business legally set up.
04
We set up your compliance calendar
Every business has filing deadlines that repeat each year. We track them all — annual returns, tax filing deadlines, GST/HST due dates — and make sure nothing gets missed.
05
We keep you in good standing
We stay on top of your corporate filings, minute book updates, and CRA correspondence throughout the year so your business never falls out of compliance.
Common questions
Should I incorporate my business or operate as a sole proprietor?
It depends on your income, your risk exposure, and your long-term plans. As a sole proprietor, all business income is taxed as your personal income — at your personal tax rate, which can be quite high once you are earning well. A corporation is taxed at the small business rate, which is significantly lower, meaning you can keep more money inside the company and take it out on your own schedule. Incorporation also creates a legal separation between you and your business, which can protect your personal assets if the business faces legal action. That said, incorporation comes with added complexity and annual filing costs, so it is not always the right move early on. We help you run through the numbers and make the decision with full information.
What is a holding company and do I need one?
A holding company (holdco) is a corporation that owns shares in your operating company (opco) rather than conducting business directly. The main benefit is that profits from the operating company can be moved to the holding company as dividends, often tax-free, where they can be invested or held safely outside the reach of the operating company's creditors. This structure is commonly used by business owners who have surplus cash in their corporation and want to protect it or invest it more efficiently. It adds some complexity, but for the right situation it can offer significant tax and asset protection advantages.
What CRA accounts does my business need to register for?
It depends on your activities. If you sell goods or services and your revenue exceeds $30,000 over four consecutive quarters, you need a GST/HST account. If you have employees, you need a payroll deductions account. If your business is incorporated, you need a corporate income tax account (RC number). Some businesses also need import/export accounts or other program accounts. We assess your situation and register for exactly what you need — nothing more.
What is a corporate minute book and why does it matter?
A minute book is the official record of your corporation's legal activities — shareholder resolutions, director resolutions, share issuances, and annual meetings. Every Canadian corporation is legally required to maintain one. Many small business owners set up their corporation and then never update the minute book, which can create problems if you ever sell the business, apply for a loan, or deal with a legal dispute. We remind you of annual requirements and can help get a neglected minute book back in order.
What is a corporate annual return and is it the same as a tax return?
No, these are different filings. A corporate annual return is filed with the provincial registry (for example, the Ontario Business Registry) to confirm that your corporation is still active and that the director and registered office information is current. It is separate from your corporate income tax return filed with the CRA. Missing annual returns can result in your corporation being dissolved by the province, which creates a significant administrative problem to undo. We track these deadlines and file on your behalf.
What if my business situation changes after I have set everything up?
Business structures are not set in stone. As your business grows, your income changes, or your goals evolve, it may make sense to restructure. We review your setup periodically and flag any situations where a change would benefit you. Restructuring mid-stream is absolutely possible — it just needs to be done carefully and with proper planning to avoid triggering unnecessary tax events.
Build your business on a solid foundation.
Book a free consultation and we will walk you through your options and tell you exactly what needs to be done for your situation.
Book a Free Consultation