Ontario Master Business License (MBL) is an official document that allows individuals or organizations to operate a business under a name that is different from their legal or personal name. It serves as a registration for various types of businesses in the province of Ontario, Canada. The MBL consolidates several key business registrations into one document, simplifying the process for entrepreneurs to establish and manage their businesses in Ontario. It allows you to register the following types of businesses:
- Sole Proprietorship (single person)
- General Partnership (two or more individuals or corporations)
- Trade Name (operating as a name under an existing corporation)
If an Ontario Master Business License (MBL) belongs to a person (sole proprietorship) or a group of people (general partnership), it doesn't offer protection from being responsible for debts. Nevertheless, when the MBL is owned by a company (Trade Name/DBA/Operating Name), it grants protection through that company. If you're interested in registering a business with safeguards against being fully responsible, you need to formally create a Corporation.
Features of Ontario Business Name Registration (Master Business Licence)
- Name Protection: Once registered, your chosen business name becomes protected within Ontario. This prevents confusion with similar names.
- Legal Entity Identification: The Master Business Licence serves as an official identification for your business, facilitating interactions.
- Sole Proprietorship/Partnerships: The MBL is ideal for sole proprietors and partnerships, allowing them to operate under a unique business name.
- Renewal/Amendment: The MBL requires renewal every five years and permits amendments to registration details.
- Accessibility: Easily verify business name registration status online for potential clients or partners.
- Economic Activity Reporting: Indicate your primary economic activity during registration, contributing to economic data collection.
- Cost-Effective: Registering a business name in Ontario is affordable, particularly for small businesses and entrepreneurs.
- Branding/Marketing: A registered business name allows for consistent branding across various channels.