Is an Ontario annual return the same as a federal annual return?
No, they are different filings. Federal corporations incorporated under the Canada Business Corporations Act file their annual return directly with Corporations Canada, typically online. Ontario corporations incorporated under the Ontario Business Corporations Act file theirs through the Canada Revenue Agency as part of the T2 corporate tax return, using Schedule 546.
A corporation can be incorporated both federally and provincially, but most businesses choose one jurisdiction. If you are a federal corporation carrying on business in Ontario, you must also register as an extra-provincial corporation with Ontario and maintain compliance in both jurisdictions, which may mean separate filings.
The information required differs slightly between federal and provincial returns, but both capture basic corporate details such as registered office address, director information, and officer information. If your corporation operates in multiple provinces, it is worth confirming which filings apply to you. A corporate lawyer or accountant can help map out all your obligations so nothing is missed.
Key takeaways
- Federal and Ontario annual returns are separate filings with different recipients.
- Ontario returns are now filed through CRA using Schedule 546 with the T2.
- Federal returns go directly to Corporations Canada.
- Extra-provincial registrations may require compliance in multiple jurisdictions.