How do I change the name of my Ontario corporation?
Changing an Ontario corporation's legal name requires amending the articles of incorporation through the Ontario Business Registry. This is called filing articles of amendment.
The process begins with a NUANS (Newly Upgraded Automated Name Search) report to confirm that the proposed new name is sufficiently distinct from existing corporation and business names in Canada. The search result is typically valid for 90 days. If the name is acceptable, the board of directors and shareholders adopt resolutions approving the name change, and articles of amendment are filed.
The government reviews the filing and, if approved, issues a certificate of amendment with the new name. From that date forward, the legal name of the corporation is the new name. The corporation number — the unique identifier assigned at incorporation — does not change.
After the name change, you will need to update: your business bank account and banking documents, registered business names (trade names registered separately under the Business Names Act), licences and permits, contracts (either formally or through notice to counterparties), and government registration accounts (CRA, WSIB, etc.). The updated corporation name also needs to appear in your minute book alongside the certificate of amendment.
Key takeaways
- A legal name change requires articles of amendment filed with the Ontario Business Registry.
- A NUANS name search confirming distinctness is required before filing.
- Shareholder and director resolutions approving the change are needed.
- After the change, update bank accounts, licences, CRA accounts, and existing contracts.