When I registered my first business, I overthought every step. It’s simpler than it looks. Here’s the plain-English version I wish I’d had.

Do you even need to register?

If you operate under your own legal name, you may not have to register at all. The moment you use a business name, most provinces require you to register it. I registered mine as a sole proprietorship — the simplest, cheapest structure to start with.

Sole proprietor vs. incorporation

Sole proprietorship: cheap, fast, you and the business are the same legally. Incorporation: more protection and tax flexibility, but more cost and paperwork. Start as a sole prop unless you have a specific reason not to — you can incorporate later.

Step 1 — Choose and search your name

Pick your name and run a business-name search to make sure it’s available.

Step 2 — Register the business name

Register with your province. In Alberta this is done through an authorized registry or online. Cost is modest — usually well under $100 for a trade name.

Step 3 — Get your CRA Business Number

Register for a Business Number (BN) with the Canada Revenue Agency. You’ll use it for taxes and program accounts.

Step 4 — Decide on GST/HST

You must register for GST/HST once you pass $30,000 in revenue over four consecutive quarters — but you can register voluntarily earlier, which lets you claim back GST you pay on supplies and imports. If you import, this matters.

Step 5 — Open a business bank account

Don’t run your business through your personal chequing account. A dedicated business account makes bookkeeping and taxes far easier.

Step 6 — Simple bookkeeping

Track income and expenses from day one, even in a spreadsheet. Your future self at tax time will thank you.

Do this first

If you do nothing else today: pick your name, register it, and open a business bank account. That’s a real business.

General information from my own experience, not legal or tax advice. Rules vary by province — confirm with your provincial registry and the CRA.