Starting a new business in Ontario is exciting—but it also comes with important legal and administrative steps. One of those key steps is obtaining a NUANS report. If you’re not sure what that is, don’t worry! This guide breaks it down in plain English to help you get started on the right foot.
NUANS stands for Newly Upgraded Automated Name Search. It’s a computerized search system that compares your proposed business name to a database of existing business names and trademarks in Canada.
Think of it as a name “background check” that helps ensure the name you want isn’t already taken or too similar to another registered name. This is important because your business name must be unique and legally available before you can register it.
In Ontario, you need a NUANS report if you are:
The report helps avoid legal issues, brand confusion, or potential rejection by the government due to a name conflict.
The NUANS report provides a list of:
This list helps determine whether your chosen name is unique enough to be registered.
Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Not necessarily. Sole proprietors registering under their own legal name (e.g., “John Smith”) do not need a NUANS report. However, if you’re using a business name (e.g., “Smith Landscaping Services”), it’s wise to check name availability to avoid conflicts.
A NUANS report might seem like a small detail, but it’s a crucial part of setting your business up for success in Ontario. It protects your brand, helps you stay compliant, and gives your business a solid foundation to grow. By taking the time to get a NUANS report, you’re investing in your future as a business owner.
Disclaimer: We are an independent third-party service provider offering the same NUANS name search report as provided through the official NUANS Canada website (nuans.com). The forms used on this site are based on the publicly available NUANS structure but are not affiliated with or endorsed by the Government of Canada. All information entered is submitted by the user, and we are not responsible for errors, omissions, or delays caused by incorrect input.
In the event of an incorrect or ungenerated report, we will reprocess it based on the original order date and send it accordingly. Please note that occasional delays may occur if the NUANS Canada system (nuans.com) is undergoing maintenance. If you do not receive your NUANS report within 3–5 minutes after completing your order, please contact us immediately for assistance.
We are a certified and recognized official NUANS member, authorized to provide Valid NUANS reports across Canada.
Our membership ensures you receive the same trusted reports as offered directly by NUANS Canada — fast, secure, and legally accepted.
A distinctive term sets your name apart from that of other businesses offering the same goods or services. A distinctive term is the most crucial part of your name.
A descriptive term explains the nature of your company’s business.
STACEY’S FLOWERS BOUTIQUE
STACEY’S
FLOWER BOUTIQUE
FAST STOP CONVENIENCE STORE
FAST STOP
CONVENIENCE STORE
Avoid entering the full proposed name in the ‘Distinctive Term’ field to prevent errors when ordering your NUANS Report.
