Register Ontario Sole Proprietorship
Start or renew your Ontario Sole Proprietorship online — fast, easy, and fully compliant. Includes digital certificate and optional CRA tax account setup.
What Is an Ontario Sole Proprietorship?
An Ontario Sole Proprietorship is a simple, unincorporated business owned by one individual. It’s the fastest and most affordable way to start a business in Ontario.
ServiceOntario refers to it as Business Name Registration — previously known as a Master Business Licence (MBL) for the sole proprietor business structure.
Low setup cost
Full control of your business
Tax simplicity
Ideal for freelancers, consultants, online sellers, and local service providers
Who Should Use This Service?
This service is right for you if:
- You're operating your business under a name other than your personal legal name
- You’re a single individual owning and running the business
- You’re looking to register or renew your Ontario Sole Proprietorship quickly
- You need your registration done in as fast as 1 hour
🔄 If you’re registering with multiple owners, go to General Partnership Registration.
🏢 If you’re a corporation using a different name, see Ontario Trade Name.
Why Register Your Sole Proprietorship With Us?
- 1-Hour Rush Filing Available
- Formerly Known as Master Business Licence (MBL)
- Digital Registration Certificate
- Optional CRA Business Number, HST, and Payroll Setup
- Renewal & Cancellation Services
- Ongoing Support and Reminders
Simple Steps
3 Simple Steps to Register or Renew an Ontario Sole Proprietorship
1
Fill Out Our Easy Online Form
Provide your desired business name, personal details, and business address.
2
We File With ServiceOntario
We complete the Business Name Registration process on your behalf — no Company Key needed.
3
Receive Your Business Name Certificate
You’ll receive your official Ontario Sole Proprietorship Certificate via email — typically within 1 business hour.
What’s Included in Your Registration Package
Business Name Registration or Renewal Filing
ServiceOntario Filing Fee
Electronic Registration Certificate
Optional Name Availability Check
Optional CRA Account Setup (BN, HST, Payroll)
Renewal Notifications for 5-Year Term
Ongoing Support for Edits, Cancellations, or Updates
Start Your Sole Trader Journey
Ontario Sole Proprietorship Package
- Starting at $89 + Government Fee
- 1-Hour Rush Filing Available
Frequently asked questions
Need further assistance? Contact us [email protected]
What is a Sole Proprietorship in Ontario?
It’s a business owned by one person that’s not incorporated. It operates under your personal legal name or a registered business name.
Is this the same as a Master Business Licence (MBL)?
Yes. What used to be called the MBL is now officially called a Business Name Registration under the sole proprietorship type.
How long is the registration valid?
Your sole proprietorship registration is valid for 5 years and must be renewed before expiration.
Can I get a business number or HST account?
Yes, we offer optional CRA setup, including BN, HST, and payroll account registration.
Can I register under my personal name only?
No registration is needed if you operate solely under your legal name. If using any other name (e.g., “Bright Lawn Care”), registration is required.
Start Your Business in Just 1 Hour
Get your Ontario Sole Proprietorship registered fast and legally, including your official business name certificate.
Optional Add-On Services
Upgrade your business start-up with:
- CRA BN/HST/Payroll Account Registration
- Domain Name + Branded Email Setup
- Digital Business Minute Book
- Business License Assistance (industry-specific)
- Cancel or Modify Business Name Services
