Business Number (BN) Registration: Who Qualifies and What You Get
Learn how to get your unique 9-digit identifier for managing your business tax obligations and dealings in Canada.
A Business Number (BN) is a unique nine-digit identifier used to manage your official dealings with the federal government.
Who it's for
This registration is designed for any individual operating a business within Canada. Whether you are running a small home-based operation or a larger enterprise, this identifier is used to track your business's official interactions with the federal revenue agency.
What you get
Upon successful registration, you receive a unique 9-digit identifier. This number serves as your primary identity for your business dealings with the CRA. It is the central tool used to manage your various tax obligations and ensures that your business is recognized by the federal government for tax-related purposes.
What it costs you
Registering for your Business Number is free of charge. You do not have to pay a fee to obtain this identifier. To complete the process, you will need to provide basic personal identification to verify your identity as the business operator.
The catch to know
It is important to understand that a federal Business Number is not the same as a provincial master business license. Obtaining this 9-digit identifier handles your federal requirements, but you may still need to undergo separate registration processes with your specific province depending on where your business operates.
How to apply
- Prepare your personal identification documents to verify your identity.
- Access the official government website to start your registration.
- Follow the guided steps to set up your business account and receive your number.
- Save your 9-digit number carefully for all future tax communications and filings.