How do I get a Business Number (BN) from the CRA?
A Business Number (BN) is a unique 9-digit number the CRA assigns to your business to identify you for federal tax purposes. You need a BN to register for GST/HST, payroll deductions, import/export accounts, and corporate income tax. **Do sole proprietors need a BN?** Not automatically. You only need a BN if you: - Register for GST/HST (mandatory once revenue exceeds C$30,000) - Hire employees and run payroll - Import or export goods - Have a corporation **How to register:** 1. Online via **CRA Business Registration Online (BRO)** at canada.ca 2. By phone: 1-800-959-5525 3. By mail or fax using Form RC1 When you register for GST/HST online, you'll automatically receive a BN. Your GST/HST account number will be your BN + RT0001 (e.g., 123456789 RT0001). **Provincial business registration:** Separate from the federal BN, you may also need to register a business name (trade name) with your provincial government — for example, the Ontario Business Registry or BC OneStop Business Registry. Most provinces require registration if operating under any name other than your own legal name.
- BN is the CRA's 9-digit identifier for businesses
- Sole proprietors only need a BN if they register for GST/HST or hire employees
- Register online at canada.ca — registration is free
- GST/HST account = BN + RT0001
- Provincial business name registration is separate from the federal BN