What is a NUANS report and do I need one to incorporate in Ontario?

A NUANS (Newly Upgraded Automated Name Search) report is a search of existing registered and reserved business names, trademarks, and corporate names across Canada. In Ontario, a NUANS report is required when you want to incorporate with a word name rather than a number. The report is valid for 90 days and must be filed with your Articles of Incorporation to show the province that your chosen name is not already in use or confusingly similar to an existing one.

If your proposed name is too similar to another company's name or a registered trademark, ServiceOntario can reject it. Choosing a distinctive name that includes a descriptive element and a legal ending (like "Inc.," "Ltd.," or "Corp.") improves approval odds.

The easiest way to avoid the name search entirely is to incorporate as a numbered company (e.g., "1234567 Ontario Inc."). Many businesses start as a numbered corporation and later register a trade name. A lawyer can order the NUANS report for you and review the results before you file, catching potential conflicts before they cause delays.